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

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.1 /5

Based on 6 experiences from local women

Make friends while traveling solo

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet other women, find travel buddies and stay with locals for free through hospitality exchange.

How safe is Detroit?

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: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: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: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

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

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Is Detroit safe for women?

Safety index

3.1 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

Detroit has come a long way from the basic stereotypes movies portray it as. Most of the corners surrounding the city are blue light districts (meaning they are always under surveillance by police). These have helped to deter crime and clean the city. There are emergency stations (like on college campuses) posted all over as well as a heavy city police presence. Detroit is honestly one of the safest cities in the U.S. I have no worries walking alone day or night. Everyone is very friendly and always willing to assist out-of-towners.

Posted: April 26, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

As long as you are careful and avoid walking at night by yourself through bad neighborhoods, you should be fine. Use caution when surrounded by strangers, but that’s true of anywhere I feel. Detroit like any city has bad pockets and good. The worst one I would say is probably Greektown. Steer clear of that area maybe.

Posted: March 15, 2025

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Check all reviews

Meet locals in Detroit

Sami

About Me

Hey, I'm Sami! I am 27 and love to travel. I love photography and going new places. I can't stand monotony, so I'm always on the move. I try to travel at least 2-3 times a year, whether it's a short road trip or flying across the world. Always looking for local advice on what to do, and will always help out someone new to my area as well! 🤙🏽

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Micherlange

About Me

My name is Micherlange and I’m going on my first international solo trip on Sunday! I’ll be in Marrakech for a week, but am very tempted to make a trip to Lisbon for a few days. If you’ll be in Marrakech at all next week, please reach out! I’m a dancer and photographer and love to try new things!