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

4.2 /5

Based on 13 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.5 /5

Based on 43 experiences from local women

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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.

Is Chicago worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 13 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.2/5

Solo travel

I loved staying in Chicago and although all the talk you hear about how dangerous it is compared to other cities I felt super safe. I loved the architecture boat tour and all the different things Chicago had to offer. Also loved that Chicago is super walkable!

Posted: March 10, 2025

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Solo travel

I was so surprised about Chicago. I actually felt way safer than in my hometown. The locals were so nice and there were so many green spots downtown. The only thing is that food is super expensive there.

Posted: March 3, 2025

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Solo travel

I felt great in Chicago between the years. Perfect city to walk around, go up the towers and enjoy the views. And the Chinatown in Chicago was great. Especially the community center. I loved to go there and relax!

Posted: August 14, 2024Experienced: December, 2019

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Group travel

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

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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Nina

United States

Solo travel

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

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Abril

Spain

Solo travel

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

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Solo travel

Here are my recommendations: 1. Willis Tower Sky Deck - you can see the entire city from a glass box 2. Art Institute of Chicago Museum 3. Pizza - deep dish. There is a pizza tour in Chicago that is super fun, worth considering 4. Portillo's - Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef. Must try the cheese fries 5. River North - cool neighborhood for going out. Lots of clubs, bars, restaurants 6. Wrigley Field (where the Chicago Cubs play. It's a famous baseball stadium) and Wrigleyville - neighborhood next to Wrigley Field with lots of bars and restaurants 7. Chicago architecture tour - this is the coolest thing I've done in Chicago 8. Visit Lake Michigan

Posted: September 12, 2023

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Family travel

Great city with a great vibe. Stunning architecture. Highlights of the trip were the architecture cruise, sunset river cruise and Art Institute. For food I loved London House (cocktails were also amazing here) and Broken English Taco Pub.

Posted: June 28, 2023

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Solo travel

I embarked on a solo trip to Chicago and was thrilled. I visited the Art Institute (lots to see, definitely recommend), the Willis Tower (great views), the WNDR museum (super fun), a boat cruise of the city's architecture (a bit expensive, but worth it) plus tons of walks everywhere. I liked Yolk as a place for a casual breakfast and felt obliged to try Lou Malnati's pizza - strange, but I would eat it again. I also happily walked to the Navy Pier and the planetarium, mainly for the great views of the city.

Posted: June 18, 2023

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Is Chicago safe for women?

Safety index

3.5 /5

Based on 43 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 43 local experiences

Chicago is a highly segregated city with some neighborhoods being extremely safe and others more volatile. Having said that, the common stereotypes about South Side being unsafe are completely false. I've lived most of my US-life in the South Side and any groping/harassment I experienced was in downtown where I went to school. Stay alert on the streets (no texting), and walk confidently when you're alone. Like you know the city

Posted: April 20, 2025

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Like any other urban city, being aware of your surroundings is essential. I have no problem walking home at night around my neighborhood, but It's important to pay attention(not on your phone) I love how close I am to restaurants, bars and shops. Love Chicago

Posted: April 18, 2025

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Meet locals in Chicago

Gabby

About Me

Hello! My name is Gabby. I live in Chicago but try to travel as often as possible. I’m easy going and get along with basically everyone. Hoping to possibly make friends and get some travel advice :)

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Violet

About Me

Seeking quality guests as too many guests on Couchsurfing are outright rude or irresponsible -- or both. Also, too many nudists and/or sexual predators on that site. Too few female hosts. See my 120+ positive hosting and surfing references over 20 years: https://bewelcome.org/members/avatar/vslaw/original

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Stay with locals in Chicago

Violet

Chicago

Can host for:

5 days

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Gabby

Chicago

Can host for:

3 days

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Upcoming visitors to Chicago

Beth

About Me

Hey I’m Beth, I’m all about capturing memories—whether it’s through photos (I need them printed for when I’ll be 80 👵🏻) or videos (that bring back those silly random moments). I love taking nature pics but animals are my weakness, especially when they’re in the wild. When I can’t travel, I’m always diving into documentaries to explore and study new places (in order to be prepared for when I’ll be there 🤪). I’m into low-budget travel but to be honest, now that I'm turning 30, I’m looking for a balance between adventure and treating myself.

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Mari

About Me

Hi, I'm Mari. I'm a recent college grad, proud mother of 2 dogs and 1 cat. I work full time but like to balance things out by getting away every once in a while in a little adventure.