Is Los Angeles Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Los Angeles is a large, vibrant, and multinational city with a wide array of cultural experiences. However, the safety varies significantly between neighborhoods. While areas like Santa Monica or Beverly Hills are generally safe to roam around, some areas downtown can be unpredictable, especially at night. As a solo female traveler, it's important to use well-populated transportation, be cautious while exploring at night, and try to stay in well-known, tourist-friendly areas. Always trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Los Angeles can vary widely in safety depending on the neighborhood. While areas like West L.A and upscale business districts generally remain safe even after dark, other neighborhoods may feel less secure. It's recommended to research your area in advance, stay vigilant, and avoid traveling alone in unknown neighborhoods at night. A good practice is to use reliable public transportation or trusted ride-share services instead of walking in less crowded areas during night hours.

Public transportation:Moderate

When it comes to safety while using public transportation in Los Angeles, it varies depending on the time of day and specific neighborhood. Buses and Metros are generally safe, but it's always important to stay vigilant. Some areas may have higher rates of crime than others, making the overall safety perception inconsistent. As usual, always stay aware of your belongings and surroundings, especially late at night.

Street harassment:Moderate

Los Angeles is a heavily populated city with diverse neighborhoods, each encountering different levels of street harassment. Certain busy areas with high tourist footfall may have instances of catcalling or unwarranted attention, but this is not a standard for the entire city. Good awareness and avoidance of less populated areas after dark can usually ensure a safer experience. Always remain alert and be aware of your surroundings.

Petty crimes:Moderate

In Los Angeles, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, theft, and burglary are fairly common, particularly in tourist-heavy areas or crowded spaces. This is not to suggest that every corner holds potential danger, but awareness and usual precautions should be taken. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded places, don't flash valuable items in public, and avoid desolate areas especially at night. Your travel experience can be largely safe with the right precautions and by staying alert.

Tap water:Safe

Tap water in Los Angeles is generally considered safe for consumption. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power follows strict U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations to ensure the water quality. It is continuously tested and treated for bacteria and impurities. However, taste can vary as it is dependent on the source of the water and its mineral content. So, many people opt for filtered water for improved taste.

Is Los Angeles safe to travel?

3.4 /5

Based on 15 experiences

Solo travel experience

I felt safe inside and while walking in crowds. Overall, the food choices in regular spaces were regular. There are kind people and there are people with ostentatious personalities, too. I stayed at hostels and they were good. Samesun is safe and quiet

Posted: March 23, 2024
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Solo travel experience

Absolutely love LA for solo female travelers. So much to do and so many sweet people! It is safe for the most part; I would just avoid downtown LA. There is always something to do, and you won't ever get bored!

Posted: January 9, 2024
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Solo travel experience

I visited Los Angeles alone and here are a few things that might come in handy. I was in Downtown and Hollywood in the evening to grab drinks but I only did it a few times and I was always in company. People say that it can get really dangerous there at night so I didn't want to spend the nights there alone. I also always tried to be aware of my surroundings. I stayed in West Hollywood and felt really safe there (even at night). I made sure to plan out each day, as Los Angeles is huge and very spread out, and planning my schedule based on location really helped me save time. As for the beaches, Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach were really nice places to visit and people-watch.

Posted: October 8, 2023
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Group travel experience

The city is amazing full of so many things to do. It can be unsafe if you drift too far from downtown without really knowing the neighborhoods. Great diversity and delicious food. It’s really easy to beat around the city and visit neighboring places too.

Posted: June 4, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I visited Venice Beach during the day and although it was a great experience, it can be a bit dangerous there at night. On the other hand, Santa Monica was much safer. Getting around Los Angeles is not easy, so I used Lyft Pools to save money and focused all my activities in one place for the entire day.

Posted: May 23, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I felt unsafe and dirty. Many homeless people were using the bathroom on the sidewalk. The smell of urine was everywhere. Tents set up on the sidewalks. I couldn't escape from there quickly. The Griffith Observatory was amazing.

Posted: June 4, 2022
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Is Los Angeles safe for women?

Safety rating

2.5 /5

Based on 9 experiences

Crime rates rating

1.4 /5

Based on 9 experiences

Some areas are safer than others, I would say Koreatown is overall safe after dark. I define Koreatown as Olympic to 1st street, and western to vermont. Taco trucks brighten areas and make it a bit safer.

Posted: April 20, 2024
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Alejandra

Alejandra

Los Angeles is very safe in general. You can see all criminal reports publicly at crimemapping.com. I highly recommend to rent a car so you can enjoy more the city. Walking T the beaches is safe but watch your stuff anyways.

Posted: April 13, 2024
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Is Los Angeles safe right now?

Before your visit to Los Angeles, it's essential to check travel advisories for United States, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian government advises to take normal security precautions in the United States. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 18, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in the United States of America. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 2, 2024

Is Los Angeles worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.7 /5

based on 15 experiences

Solo travel experience

I suggest avoiding Hollywood. It's quite neglected and there are many homeless people there, so it's not the most pleasant experience. Santa Monica and Venice are popular areas, and downtown Los Angeles has wonderful museums.

Posted: May 15, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 4/5
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Meet locals in Los Angeles

Meet local women in Los Angeles who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Alejandra

Alejandra

About Me

Designer who loves to traveling the world. Living in Los Angeles originally from Colombia. Next trip is eastern Europe. Reach out if you want to join, looking for a traveling companion.

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Suzie

Suzie

About Me

Hi! Hola! Salut! I’m Suzie, and I’ve lived my entire life in California. I love walking, trying new food, places, and meeting people! Obvi enjoy traveling and am a frequent sola traveler :) Excited to connect with others and swap tips!

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Stay with locals in Los Angeles

Stay with local women in Los Angeles who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Alejandra

Alejandra

Los Angeles

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Designer who loves to traveling the world. Living in Los Angeles originally from Colombia. Next trip is eastern Europe. Reach out if you want to join, looking for a traveling companion.

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Cece

Cece

Los Angeles

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3 days

About me

Young at heart and love meeting new people.

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Safety in United States