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Is Chicago Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Chicago, like any major city, has both safe and less safe areas. Downtown and the popular tourist areas are generally secure, especially during the day. However, it's essential to remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Personal safety can largely depend on which neighborhoods you are visiting and at what time of day. It's advisable to research the areas you plan to visit, use trusted forms of transportation, avoid less populated areas at night and always keep your belongings secure.

Safety rating

4.1 /5

Based on 10 travel experiences

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.2 /5

Based on 16 local experiences

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How safe is Chicago?

Safety at night:Moderate

Chicago, like any big city, has areas that are very safe and others that are not. It's a vibrant city teeming with culture, food, and music, especially at night. However, it's crucial to stay alert and to stick to public, well-lit areas. Rely on trusted transportation like city taxis or rideshare apps rather than walking alone where possible. Be aware that some parts of the city experience higher crime rates than others. Local advice, common sense, and staying connected with others can significantly enhance your safety.

Public transportation:Moderate

Chicago, offers a robust public transportation system which consists mainly of buses and trains. It is generally secure during day time, especially the areas frequented by locals and tourists. Stations and vehicles are equipped with surveillance cameras for safety. However, during late hours, it could be less safe particularly in certain neighborhoods. The presence of homeless people and petty criminals is also noted at times. It's advisable to be aware of one's surroundings and not to be out too late alone. Also, public transportation there could get quite crowded during rush hours which could result in uncomfortable situations.

Street harassment:Moderate

Chicago as a metropolitan city can present varied experiences for solo female travelers. Street harassment is not uncommon, but the frequency and intensity largely depend on the location and time of day. More tourist-centric locations are generally safer with less harassment reported. Always stay vigilant, especially when travelling alone at night in less crowded areas. Don't hesitate to rely on local authorities in uncomfortable situations.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Chicago, like any major city, has a varying degree of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and car break-ins. Some areas are more prone to incidents than others. However, most tourist areas are safe and monitored. Being aware of your surroundings and taking standard precautions can reduce the risk significantly.

Tap water:Very safe

Chicago's tap water is considered safe to drink. The city's water system is managed by the Department of Water Management, which regularly tests the water for contaminants and exceeds federal water quality standards. Furthermore, the city is known for its use of innovation in water treatment, making its tap water one of the safest in the United States.

Is Chicago safe to travel?

4.1 /5

Based on 10 experiences

Group travel experience

Did a quick weekend trip to Chicago with the girls for a bachelorette party. We had dinner at the Dearborn and Wakamono, both 5/5. We tried out The DISCO since it has 4 levels but it was pretty small and crowded so we ended up at Three Dots and A Dash and the vibe there was much more chill but fun! We mostly traveled by Uber but when we did walk around we felt safe.

Posted: May 14, 2024Experienced: May, 2024

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Group travel experience

I felt very safe in Chicago, it is a wonderful city, although many people say it is a dangerous city, I felt safe. In Chicago, you must try their famous pizza, visit the beach and Skydeck. I can say that is the most beautiful city.

Posted: February 10, 2024

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Is Chicago safe for women?

Safety rating

3.2 /5

Based on 16 experiences

Crime rates rating

1.9 /5

Based on 16 experiences

Khai

Chicago gets a really bad rap. Media portrays the city as ridiculously dangerous and spreads this idea that you’ll get shot the moment you step foot in the city. That is SO not true. Like any city, there are parts that you might not want to go to, but even in those places as long as you have common sense and basic self preservation skills you will be fine. The public transportation is LOVELY, if you’re an especially anxious person, I’d recommend staying off of the red line. Nothing has happened to me personally, but it can be loud & crowded and they’re may be aggravated people and/or addicts riding(it is a major metropolitan city 🤷🏾‍♀️). Keep yourself alert, and have some sort of weapon or pepper spray (I’ve never had to use mine and I’ve lived in “dangerous areas” before) and you’ll be just fine. Don’t let fear (especially from propaganda and sometimes racism) keep you from enjoying such an incredible city!

Posted: July 12, 2024

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Chicago is a big city. Beautiful and very interesting, specially in the summer time. Has a lot to offer. But unfortunately you always have to be aware of your surroundings in downtown in the evening and night time.

Posted: July 11, 2024

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Is Chicago safe right now?

Before your visit to Chicago, it's essential to check travel advisories for United States, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian government advises taking normal security precautions in the United States. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 25, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 2, 2024

Is Chicago worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 10 experiences

Nina (28)

United States

Solo travel experience

It has a lot of things to do even when you explore the city alone. I did not use public transport as it was fun and easy to walk around. There are many impressive theaters, bars etc. that are worth visiting especially in the night hours. A bit expensive but it was worth it.

Posted: January 15, 2024Experienced: January, 2024

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 4/5

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Abril

Spain

Solo travel experience

I enjoyed this trip so much. The city is amazing, I highly recommend the ferry architecture trip, to avoid staying in the downtown!! The Getaway Chicago Hostel is a great option. Food in Chinatown is really cheap and delicious. People is friendly, I had an amazing time there.

Posted: November 18, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

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Meet locals in Chicago

Meet local women in Chicago who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Eden

About Me

Hi all! I’m Eden. I’m a reasonably seasoned traveler. I spent a year in Europe, mostly in Spain. I did a month of van life in Florida. I traveled for work for two years along the West Coast of the USA. I’m currently living long term in Chicago. I love getting to know new people/fellow travelers and witnessing people for exactly who they are. Im extremely open minded and believe every person has a good heart. I spend most of my time working with reiki, meditation/wellness, and divine femininity practice. My passions include wellness healing and social justice activism. Looking forward to meeting whoever I cross paths with ❤️

Speaking

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Christina

About Me

Hello! I am solo traveling out of the country for the first time and am very excited! If anyone is going to be there at the same time as me and would like to meet up, message me!

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Chicago

Stay with local women in Chicago who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

Ambria

Chicago

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello my name is Ambria. I am on a cuisine/culture tour around Europe to experience authentic food and meet like minded people. I love to meet new people and be spontaneous. Obsessed with coffee and live to try new coffee places anywhere I visit. Passionate about art and music and seeker of conversations about different perspectives on life and the world. Curious and goofy soul excited to see the world.