Is Madison safe for solo female travelers?

Madison, is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. Crime rates are relatively low compared to larger American cities. However, like in any other city worldwide, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions, particularly at night. High presence of police forces and well-lit streets facilitate your sense of security.

Safety rating

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How safe is Madison for female travelers?

Solo travel

I had so much fun in Madison last August. It’s a very charming city with lots of outdoor activities and foods to try. The bar scene is huge due to the college campus so going out is an obvious choice when visiting.

Posted: August 3, 2024
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Solo travel

Madison was oh-so-charming! I love the Victorian architecture and history. One of the cutest cities I’ve visited - can’t wait to go back at some point! I stayed at the Mansion Hill Inn, which was breathtaking and had top-notch customer service. Everyone I encountered in Madison was so friendly! A highlight of my trip was touring the elaborate capitol building. I took so many photos, and it was great to learn so much about its history! There are also great museums and restaurants.

Posted: February 29, 2024Experienced: August, 2023
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How safe is Madison for women?

Local safety index

4.1 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Local crime index

1.7 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Noémie

Noémie

I stayed in Madison for a month in January/February. I often went for walks at night because the days are short in winter, and I always felt safe. I did everything on foot or by public transportation, day and night, and no one bothered me, but I did sometimes encounter drug addicts on the bus. It can be stressful traveling alone at night, so I usually sat near the driver in those cases!

Posted: October 7, 2025
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I feel overall it is pretty safe! Everywhere you go has not great neighborhoods but most here are pretty safe. Its very family friendly, and community based honestly.i wouldnt say I have any complaints to share.

Posted: September 1, 2025
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Generally safe. Theft is big. Don't walk around downtown alone at night. Homelessness is a big issue downtown as well- you're likely to be approached if you're on your own downtown at night, so best avoid that.

Posted: August 11, 2025
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Marina

Marina

I would say the small city of Madison is very safe, it is a college town and there is a big drinking culture here, so it is always best to stay aware, especially if you are alone, and at night. The overall crime rate is pretty low, however domestic violence is an issue here. But for safety of solo travelers I would say it’s pretty safe. But always be aware of course. It is a very beautiful place, with the lakes, and people are very friendly, so I highly recommend coming for a visit.

Posted: June 13, 2025
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Maddie

Maddie

Madison, WI is a very safe city. I have lived here for 8+ years and have never really felt like I was in danger. Wisconsinites are generally very kind and will chat and help. There are sometimes strange people downtown at night, but mostly they just yell at people to keep to themselves. Downtown is usually packed with college students, and is considered pretty dang safe.

Posted: May 8, 2025
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Safety in United States