Is Detroit Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Detroit, while having made significant strides in improvements over the years, still requires vigilance when travelling alone. The downtown area, along with certain neighborhoods, is generally safe during daytime. However, it's advised to avoid certain districts after dark. Like any large city, petty crime such as pickpocketing can be an issue. Always stay alert, aware of your surroundings, and take the usual urban travel precautions.

Safety rating

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How safe is Detroit?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

Like many large cities, Detroit has its safe and less safe areas. At night, it's advised to stay in populated and well-lit areas. Public transportation and taxis are available during these hours, but walking alone is not highly recommended. Always be aware of your surroundings and try to blend in with the locals, even at popular attractions and events.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Detroit, primarily the Detroit People Mover and buses, is generally safe as it is patrolled by transit authority police. However, as with any city, it's important to remain aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak hours. The introduction of the QLine streetcar brings an improved travel option that's relatively safe and modern. Though, there have been mentions of occasional delays and not as frequent services late at night. Therefore, it's recommended to use ride hailing services during these hours if you feel uncomfortable.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

Detroit, like any urban city, can have instances of street harassment but the level varies depending on the area and time of day. While some neighborhoods are extremely polite and welcoming, others can be more challenging with occasional cat-calling and unwarranted comments. During the daytime, especially in bustling areas, the likelihood of experiencing street harassment is significantly reduced. It's advisable to exercise usual precautions, such as avoiding less crowded areas at late hours and maintaining an awareness of your surroundings at all times.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:High

Detroit has experienced a significant drop in crime rates over the past few years, however, incidents of petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and vehicle break-ins can still occur, particularly in busy, tourist-heavy areas. Stay vigilant, secure your personal belongings at all times and avoid displaying expensive items or large sums of money. Using common sense and taking basic precautions can greatly reduce the potential risks.

Is Detroit worth visiting?

Mantha

Mantha

United States

Group travel

Detroit was pretty cool.I went there for a conference so I didn't get to see a whole lot.But I didn't get an airbnb for a reasonable price and visited a couple of coffee shops breakfast places and restaurants. I'd say a coffee on average was about six dollars or seven. Detroit felt smaller than I was expecting it too of course this is different if you're downtown. Also, you can see Canada from a lot of different places.It's super super close.

Posted: June 29, 2024Experienced: May, 2024
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Is Detroit safe for women?

Detroit has had a bad reputation for years of having been neglected by its government and abandoned by populations who wanted to live out the suburban dream, but the city is way safer than it looks (it’s very spread out so parts of the city have a lot of derelict houses and not a lot of people on the street), and way safer than racist folks in the burbs will tell you. BUT like anywhere, you have to be aware of your surrounds, not on your devices outside, and know something about the neighborhood you’re in. Don’t wander around at night in neighborhoods where no one else is walking around. Don’t go around snapping pictures of falling down houses and breaking into abandoned buildings. Even if the house looks terrible, someone may live there and regardless, neighbors don’t want someone coming in doing a disaster photography tour. People in Detroit are super-friendly, amazing hosts, very open and kind. YOU HAVE TO SAY HI in Detroit when you see someone or at least nod at them/greet them in some way. It’s taken as the basic acknowledgement of someone’s humanity. If you look people in the eye and greet them, the city opens up to you. Like the t-shirt slogan here goes, “say nice things about Detroit.”

Posted: November 10, 2024
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Meet locals in Detroit

Liza

Liza

About Me

I’m a performing artist who’s been living in Detroit for the last fifteen years. Besides my own work, I run a small arts space with a collective of other performers (I work a lot). But if I’m not working, I love being outside! I love good food, and I love swimming/the beach. I travel a lot for work and research and used to live in China and Germany. I like meeting new people and making the world feel smaller and more connected.

Speaking

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Jenny

Jenny

About Me

I had wanted to travel for a long time but never thought I'd be doing it solo. I'm very happy I stopped waiting and ventured out to explore new places and cultures.

Speaking

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