Is Charlottesville Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Charlottesville is generally safe for solo female travelers. The city itself is pretty peaceful, with a low rate of violent crime. However, it's always important to take standard precautions, especially at night, such as avoiding poorly lit areas and always letting someone know your itinerary. Walking alone late at night is not recommended in some parts of the city.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Charlottesville?

Safety at night:Moderate

Charlottesville is a fairly safe city. Its night safety, however, is not uniform across all areas. In well-lit, bustling places, one might feel safe walking alone. However, there are some parts of town that might feel less secure, especially after dark. It's always recommended to stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and use common sense - just like in any city around the world. If possible, try avoiding alleys and deserted areas at night. Opt for a taxi or a ride-share service if you're unsure about the area's safety at late hours.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Charlottesville is generally reliable and safe. Buses and trolleys are the main modes of public transport and they are known to be well-maintained and have polite drivers. The passengers are usually locals or students from the nearby University of Virginia, which adds to a sense of community on board. However, as in any urban area, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak hours or at quiet stops.

Street harassment:Low

Charlottesville typically experiences lower levels of street harassment compared to other destinations across the United States. Women travelers often report that they feel relatively safe walking alone during daylight hours, and usually do not face regular issues of unsolicited or hostile comments in public places. However, as with traveling any city, it is always advisable to stay vigilant, especially after dark and in less populated areas.

Petty crimes:Low

Charlottesville is generally safe for solo female travelers. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and personal belongings theft can occur but are not common. While it's always advised to stay vigilant and mindful of your surroundings, you are less likely to encounter these issues here. Ensure to keep your personal belongings secured and avoid isolated areas particularly during the night.

Is Charlottesville worth visiting?

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Is Charlottesville safe for women?

Savannah

Charlottesville is safe during the day, some areas at night become a bit more sketchy. There’s been incidents of attempted kidnappings and murders mostly of University of Virginia students. When at night, stay aware of your surroundings. Better to call for an Uber if you feel unsafe in any way, but for the most part you’re safe if you’re not alone.

Posted: March 27, 2025

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Nicole

Charlottesville is generally a very safe place. It’s home to a HUGE university and that helps keep things safe. Like all places, there are neighborhoods that are not as safe, but those are few. No sexual harassment. As always, and with almost everywhere, wandering in unpopulated places at night and alone puts you at increased risk for mugging, etc.

Posted: July 4, 2024

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Savannah

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Hello! My name is Savannah and I’m a 21 (soon to be 22) year old about to graduate from college! I will be attending grad school next semester so I’m hoping to spend the summer of 2025 traveling!

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Vivian

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hi!! i’m vivian and i go to college in the US but am interning this summer in hsinchu, taiwan. would love to explore more of taiwan during the weekends :)