Is Chapel Hill Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Chapel Hill is generally safe for solo female travelers. Like in any destination, it's wise to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. The city has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the US. However, it's always important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night in isolated areas and keeping personal belongings secure. The locals are known for being friendly and there are plenty of well-lit, populated areas to explore.

Safety rating

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Chapel Hill?

Safety at night:Safe

Chapel Hill, is generally considered a mild-moderately safe environment for females walking alone at night. The campus area and main streets are often well-lit and frequently patrolled by police due to the resident student population. However, it is always advisable to remain aware of your surroundings when walking alone and to prefer more crowded and illuminated areas.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Chapel Hill, especially the local bus system, is a reliable and relatively safe mode of transport for solo female travelers. They are regularly maintained and well-lit. However, like all places, it's important to be alert and aware of your surroundings, especially during non-peak hours.

Street harassment:Low

Chapel Hill is generally a safe and welcoming place. It's a college town, which means streets are often lively and crowded, particularly near the University of North Carolina campus. Most reports of street harassment are rare, although it can happen, as anywhere. Always remember to stay vigilant, particularly at night and when alone. Overall, it maintains a low to moderate degree of street harassment compared with other cities of similar size.

Petty crimes:Low

Chapel Hill, a residential town and home to the University of North Carolina, has relatively low chances of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching, especially in comparison with other larger U.S. cities. However, as with all places, it is safer to take precautionary measures such as keeping your belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Is Chapel Hill worth visiting?

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Is Chapel Hill safe for women?

Willow

Very safe! Residential and university town. There are some aggressive homeless individuals on the Main Street but they very rarely bother. I feel quite safe walking home alone at night on weekends, as many students are often out late. On weekdays, you may feel safer walking with another person after dark, but that would be an extra precaution rather than an essential one.

Posted: September 30, 2024

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Chapel Hill is a University town. Overall its safe. But some areas are too dark after dark. You may not feel comfortable walking alone after dark. Adjoining towns like Carrboro is safe as well. However, Durham feels unsafe and you must travel with a group in Durham.

Posted: March 30, 2024

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Willow

About Me

I'm a student at UNC CH in North Carolina, USA, although I'm originally from San Francisco, California. I'm lucky to have been to over 30 countries already—and counting!

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Kris

Chapel Hill

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! Last year I was a digital nomad (remote work psychologist) in the US and Canada for 14 months and was thrilled to hike and kayak through stunning natural beauty and meet wonderful new people as I travelled. I recently settled down in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area in North Carolina, which is intellectually vibrant and has great Southern BBQ. 😁 I can’t travel full time now, but I have a guest room with bath and would love to host nice friendly women! I have found that travelers are some of my favorite types of people- probably because they are open to new experiences, respectful of other cultures, growth oriented and savor pleasure. I share those values. I also enjoy music, art making, theater and yoga. Feminist, atheist and liberal!

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