Is California Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

California is generally safe for female solo travelers, with its diverse and welcoming society. However, like any popular tourist spot, there can be instances of petty crime, such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. Tourist spots, public transport, and hotels are frequently patrolled, offering a sense of security. As always, it's crucial to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially when moving around at night. Do thorough research about where you're planning to visit, utilize reliable forms of transportation, and be cautious while interacting with strangers.

Safety rating

3.3 /5

Based on 4 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is California?

Safety at night:Moderate

The safety of California at night largely depends on the location. Areas such as San Francisco, San Diego, and Los Angeles have busy, well-lit areas that are generally safe, but they also have neighborhoods known for high crime rates. It's advisable to stay in populated areas, avoid less touristy neighborhoods, and plan your transport in advance to avoid walking alone at night. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in California is generally safe and reliable, especially in metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco where the system is extensive and well taken care of. Buses, trains, and ferries are many and regular, and plenty of people use them daily without incident. However, like in any other city, it's important to stay vigilant, especially during late hours, and always be aware of your surroundings. Beware of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoid less populated areas after dark.

Street harassment:Low

California is generally a safe place for solo female travelers. While experiences with street harassment may vary depending on the location and time of day, many women report feeling comfortable and rarely encounter aggressive forms of harassment. Most urban areas have good police presence and citizens are usually open and respectful. However, as anywhere else, it is important to stay vigilant, particularly during nights or in less crowded places.

Petty crimes:Moderate

California, like many places, has areas where petty crimes such as pickpocketing, theft, and break-ins occur. Tourist hotspots and crowded places are often targeted. Practices such as keeping your belongings close and not leaving valuables visible in parked cars can help avoid such incidents. As always, exercise common caution and vigilance.

Is California worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.8 /5

based on 4 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4/5

Safety

3.3/5

Food

3.1/5

Budget-friendly

2.3/5

Solo travel

I travelled inland from SFO to Sisters Oregon, and back via the coast. I stayed some nights with friends, some nights with Couchsurfing hosts and some nights at a hotel/motel I rented a car to get around as I also wanted to be independent and be able to stop where I wanted. I felt safe, and people were very friendly wherever I came.

Posted: June 2, 2025

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Solo travel

I studied abroad in Los Angeles and I had the time of my life! I can definitely recommend going to California in general! There are so many beautiful places that you can visit. For example: Yosemite, La Jolla, Naples Island etc.

Posted: March 27, 2024

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Macie

United Kingdom

Family travel

I traveller with my family so immediately felt safer with my dad with me, we did a tour of California stopping in LA, San Fran, San Diego & Monterey. At all these places we stayed in either a hotel or AirBnB which were in nice areas so never had a safety issue. The only unsafe area was San Fran mainly due to the fentanyl crisis. It was expensive all round to do or eat anything but that was expected Would defo recommend going with friends or as a group as I didn’t mean many other people

Posted: February 1, 2024