Is United States Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

The United States generally offers a safe environment for solo female travelers. Smaller towns and rural areas are typically safe and you'll often find people help you if you're in trouble. Major cities are also generally safe, but just like in any large cities around the world, you should take usual precautions and avoid less crowded areas late at night. Public transportation and taxi systems are overall reliable and safe.

Safety rating

Make friends while traveling solo

Meet other female travelers, find travel buddies and stay with local women for free through hospitality exchange.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

How safe is United States?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

The safety of walking alone at night in the United States largely depends on the location. Urban, well-lit areas, and places with high foot traffic are generally safer than isolated or poorly lit areas. However, even in relatively safe cities, the level of safety can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. It's also important to be aware of your surroundings, avoid distractions such as your mobile phone, and note the locations of nearby businesses or authorities should you need them. A considerable number of cities have designated safe areas for women and emergency call boxes. Nonetheless, use measures of caution when walking alone at night.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in the United States is generally safe, with systems like buses, subways, and trams well-maintained and monitored for security. However, like anywhere, safety can vary depending on the location and time of day. It's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak times. In major cities, public transport is frequently used by a broad cross-section of residents, which also tends to improve safety.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

Street harassment in the United States can vary greatly depending on the city or region you're in. In larger cities or more populated areas, harassment may occur more frequently. It can range from verbal comments to more aggressive behavior. However, it's important to note that there are also many areas where instances of street harassment are rare and authorities are often quick to respond to such matters. Awareness and education about street harassment and women's safety are rising, contributing to a decrease in occurrences.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

While safety varies greatly across different regions and cities in the United States, the overall risk of petty crime, including pickpocketing and theft, is moderate. Popular tourist destinations may see higher rates of these crimes, particularly in crowded areas or at major events. Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuable items, and secure your belongings to minimize the risk.

Is United States worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 391 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5

South Lake Tahoe, Solo travel

South Lake Tahoe is very safe, and there is plenty to do. There is boating, walking, biking, and shopping. If you prefer to just take it all in, the best option is to get out on foot and explore. I really enjoyed hiking, but just be mindful of the heat and the altitude and prepare accordingly.

Posted: June 30, 2025Experienced: May, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Aurora, Group travel

Rented an Airbnb that was walking distance to a market hall that had everything called Stanley. This is a must! Very close to Denver. We did end up renting a car after a couple of days to explore the outdoors. I would definitely recommend!

Posted: June 25, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0
Victoria

Victoria

Canada

New York, Group travel

Genuinely New York is one of my favourite places to travel to the only downside of it is how expensive stays are. It’s super expensive to travel Solo and it’s best to go with groups. Safety wise it is great. There’s a lot of people everywhere at any time. The city is always alive and transport has always been great

Posted: June 25, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

South Portland, Solo travel

Downtown Portland is not a safe place to go as a solo traveler especially at night there is a lot of homeless and drug addicts just lurking around but if you go to the nature scenery the waterfalls those places are safe

Posted: June 25, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Oahu, Solo travel

Great experience, very beautiful. Felt very safe especially in Waikīkī where I stayed. Very busy, but that was a bit welcome to a new traveler. Stayed at Honu by ALOH hostel - very nice place, not a great location mostly because of very difficult parking. Please be mindful of parking signs and towing signs - they will tow! Everything is expensive - but going on tours and diving cage less with sharks was the best thing I did!

Posted: June 24, 2025
favorite_border 4
mode_comment 0

Pensacola, Couple travel

Pensacola is beautiful! I would definitely recommend going if you have the chance! The beaches are beautiful, the food is great, and the people are pretty chill. There’s something to do anywhere you go, nightlife isn’t too crazy. I love it and will definitely be going back soon!

Posted: June 14, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Is United States safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 1353 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 1353 local experiences

Lindsey

Lindsey

Portland

Downtown Portland is like any other big city — I would say maybe safer than your average one. Be mindful of your surroundings, don’t engage in any suspicious or aggressive behavior, be careful walking around during the night. I would use ride share if possible!

Posted: July 3, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Saint Petersburg

Some areas are very safe, but it's better to treat it as any normal city in America (i.e. don't walk around alone at night). There are streets that will be deserted at night, and walking alone can feel creepy.

Posted: July 3, 2025
favorite_border 0
mode_comment 0

Safety in United States