Is Knoxville Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Knoxville generally offers a safe environment for solo female travelers. Like any city, it has areas that are extremely safe and some not as safe especially during late-night hours. However, residents are usually friendly and willing to assist. It is recommended to have awareness of your surroundings and avoid less populated areas at night for personal safety.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3 /5

Based on 3 experiences from local women

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How safe is Knoxville?

Safety at night:Moderate

Knoxville is generally safe, but like any city, it has areas that are less safe than others. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid unpopulated areas or poorly lit streets at night. It's always recommended to use trusted transportation methods instead of walking alone. Please do some research about the neighborhoods and plan your routes in advance. Being cautious and prepared will significantly contribute to your safety.

Public transportation:Safe

Knoxville's public transportation system, predominantly run by Knoxville Area Transit, is generally safe for solo female travelers. The buses and trolleys are well-maintained and frequently patrolled. Various safety measures like CCTV cameras and well-lit stations are implemented. Drivers and staff are generally helpful and polite. However, usual vigilance and general safety practices are encouraged, particularly during off-peak service times.

Street harassment:Low

Knoxville generally has a safe and welcoming environment. Nevertheless, a solo female traveler should always take necessary precautions and be aware of the surroundings. While street harassment is not a common problem reported in Knoxville, it doesn't mean it doesn't happen. It's important to keep a vigilant outlook, especially in the less crowded and touristy parts of the city. Overall, while the city holds a reputation for Southern hospitality, it is always best to stay alert and cautious.

Petty crimes:Low

Knoxville, like any city, does have occurrences of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. However, the overall risk is relatively low in comparison to many larger cities. Wide, well-lit streets and proactive local law enforcement offer a fairly safe environment for visitors. As long as you stay aware of your surroundings and exercise standard precautions, your risk of experiencing petty crime should remain low.

Is Knoxville worth visiting?

Couple travel

We experienced the Big Ears festival in March 2023 and had an absolute blast. Most of the festival is in old city which is a hip area of the city with quirky restaurants, the iconic TN theatre and a river running through.

Posted: March 8, 2024

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Is Knoxville safe for women?

Safety index

3 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Julie

I have always felt safe especially in my neighborhood but it is America 🤷🏻‍♀️. I am cautious in general. I do not own a gun. I rely on loud barking dogs (if needed) as a deterrent! I grew up in Memphis and did not feel safe living there.

Posted: February 24, 2025

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Knoxville is relatively safe, but like any city, it has its issues. Like I would wander around after dark or take public transportation after dark unless necessary. Where I live though is more suburban, so I always feel safe at home.

Posted: July 13, 2024

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