Is Cleveland Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Cleveland generally enjoys a growing reputation as a relatively safe city, particularly in areas frequented by tourists such as Downtown, Ohio City, Tremont, and the University Circle. However, like any urban environment, it is recommended to maintain vigilance, especially during night hours. Use standard safety precautions like staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your personal belongings secure, and avoiding less populated areas after dark. Use of public transportation in daytime is usually safe.

Safety rating

3.3 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.5 /5

Based on 3 experiences from local women

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How safe is Cleveland?

Safety at night:Moderate

Cleveland's safety can vary significantly depending on the area. Certain areas, such as downtown and residential suburbs can be relatively safe even at night, thanks to the presence of patrols and well-lit streets. However, there are also neighborhoods that might not feel as secure past sundown, and it would be recommended to avoid those areas or use public transportation or ride-sharing services instead of walking alone. Always stay aware of your surroundings while exploring the city at night.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Cleveland is generally safe, but like any big city, it's always important to remain aware of your surroundings. The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates bus and light rail lines throughout the city and has made efforts to prioritize rider safety. However, safety can vary depending on the time of day and specific areas. Overall, try to travel during the day and avoid empty cars or platforms, especially late at night. As always, don't show off expensive belongings or valuable jewelry in public.

Street harassment:Low

In comparison to other cities, Cleveland generally has a safer environment when it comes to street harassment. That said, it's important to always stay vigilant and take necessary precautions regardless. As in any city, there may be areas or times where one may feel uncomfortable. Practicing safe travel habits such as avoiding less crowded areas in the late hours, can greatly reduce any potential negative encounters.

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Cleveland, petty crimes such as pickpocketing or purse snatching do occur, especially in some downtown areas and public transportation. It is recommended to keep your valuables secure and maintain awareness of your surroundings at all times. However, most tourists do not experience any issues when they take precautions. Preventative measures and common sense can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of petty crime.

Is Cleveland worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.7 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.7/5

Safety

3.3/5

Food

3.3/5

Budget-friendly

2.9/5

Solo travel

Cleveland was a very unexpected great time! I am from the midwest and didn't have much expectations from Cleveland as I was just visiting for a show, but it ended up a great experience. The people here are very friendly and welcoming and I had no troubles making friends here. I stayed in downtown and the safety seemed a 6/10 due to fights happening outside of where I was staying. Lots of industrial abandoned buildings if urban exploration is your thing. Cleveland was also pretty inexpensive compared to other areas. Overall it's a pretty cozy and welcoming city and I would definitely come back again:-)

Posted: February 7, 2024

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Is Cleveland safe for women?

Safety index

2.5 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Crime index

2.2 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

It is mostly safe, it is just important to be aware of your surroundings in general because being in any city at night could potentially be risky. Overall during the day I would say its completely fine.

Posted: February 16, 2025

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As always, depends on where you go! Some places are great, quiet and residential and lovely (Lakewood, Cleveland Heights, Uptown Cleveland) and some places are fine during the day but I don’t like walking around at night alone (Downtown - I work there during the day and it’s generally fine! I’ve walked around alone at night and had no issues, but I didn’t feel entirely safe). There are some places I wouldn’t go, but tourists definitely wouldn’t be going there. Your mileage may vary, of course.

Posted: August 7, 2024

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