Is New Orleans safe for solo female travelers?

New Orleans is a city of vibrant culture and festivities, but like any other sizable city, it has its share of crime. Stay vigilant, especially at night, as areas outside the busy French Quarter can become desolate. It's recommended to utilize common sense precautions such as avoiding deserted streets and alleys, not flashing valuable possessions and staying in well-lit and crowded areas. Public transport is generally safe, yet free shuttle services offered by most hotels is advised to be always accessed. Over and above, traveling with organized tours and reputable companies can enhance security, especially when exploring less touristy districts.

Safety rating

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How safe is New Orleans?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

New Orleans has a rich cultural scene and a celebrated nightlife. However, like many large cities, it also has its share of safety issues. It's not highly recommended to walk alone at night, especially in less tourist-oriented neighborhoods. Even in tourist areas, it is always best to remain vigilant. It's important to know and stick to safe areas, and always take a cab or use a rideshare service when going out after dark. Stay in populated areas and avoid venturing off into secluded neighborhoods.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in New Orleans is commonly used by both locals and tourists, with several options including buses, streetcars, and taxis. However, it's advised to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when travelling at night. Generally, streetcars like the St. Charles line are safe during the day and early evening, while buses can be less reliably safe. Most reported incidents involve petty crimes like pickpocketing, so keeping your valuables close and staying vigilant is recommended.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

New Orleans is generally a vibrant and social city well known for its street performances and festivals. However, similar to many other cities, isolated instances of street harassment may occur, especially during late nights or in less populated neighborhoods. Celebrations such as Mardi Gras can often become rather boisterous, leading to instances of unwanted attention. It is advised to stay in populated areas and take the usual safety precautions to minimize the chances of encountering such situations.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:High

New Orleans, despite its vibrant culture and festive atmosphere, also has a reputation for petty crime, particularly pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. It is not uncommon for individuals, including women, to be targeted. As a solo traveler, extra precautions should be taken to ensure personal belongings are secure at all times.
Tap water:

Tap water:Safe

New Orleans tap water is generally considered safe to drink. The city's water system is regularly tested for harmful substances to meet state and federal standards. However, depending on your individual sensitivity, you might notice a difference in taste due to the water being chlorinated, which is not uncommon in many American cities.

Is New Orleans safe to travel?

4.4 /5

Based on 24 experiences

Izzy

Izzy (20)

United Kingdom

Solo travel experience

Although it may not be the most secure city in the world, I felt safe and stuck around crowded/tourist areas during the day and night anyway. There are lots of interesting museums if you don't want to just drink, as well as swamp/nature tours. Definitely would recommend for southern/soul food; Neyo's is a good place. I didn't have a set budget but I wound up spending around £200 on souvenirs and tours, and as for getting around it was quite easy to walk or take the cheap streetcars. Overall, I can't wait to go back again.

Posted: February 19, 2024Experienced: September, 2023
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Briana

Briana

United States

Solo travel experience

I walked around the French Quarter during the daylight and felt safe. There were lots of people around because this is the tourist area. I took a walking tour of the French Quarter and a bus tour that took us to other areas that seemed quieter but mostly safe and warm and friendly. There was shopping, parks, museums, so much to do! I was there for work (I wouldn’t be able to afford the Four Seasons otherwise lol!) so I didn’t have lots of time there and would love to go back.

Posted: December 14, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I was alone in New Orleans in June. It was wonderful. It was hotter than hell, but beautiful, plenty to do, people were friendly, and I didn't feel unsafe. I live in a big city and I didn't feel any different than in any other big city.

Posted: September 30, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went to New Orleans and I travelled around by buses, streetcars, and walked after dark. Not once did I feel unsafe. I stayed at the Audubon Park, from where it was easy to get to the city, and because I stayed further out, I saved a lot of money. Walking around and exploring the area is also great.

Posted: July 31, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I was there alone. It's really safe. I ate everywhere, and since I was alone, I could skip long lines and eat at the bar. I went on a swamp tour. I walked through all the cemeteries. I went on a boat trip. I rode the tram and even did some shopping in second-hand stores. I didn't have a car and I didn't need one. I was planning to go on a bike tour, but I ran out of time.

Posted: July 12, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I went alone and stayed in a hostel for 8 days. I didn't feel unsafe, but I spent the day alone, and evenings mostly with other people from the hostel. The only thing I will say is that aggressive gossiping is much greater than I experienced in any other place I have traveled, during the day, publicly, or at night.

Posted: July 9, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I stayed at the Hotel Mazarin, which is very centrally located. I took Uber only once the whole time I was there. The rest of the time, I walked or took the tram. On average, I covered 7 to 8 miles a day. I felt very safe all the time, even at night, being alone.

Posted: December 1, 2022
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Solo travel experience

Incredible city! Don't be afraid. Be wise. It's amazing. See for yourself. Don't walk down narrow streets and don't talk to strangers. Take care of your safety and behave as if you were meeting a friend all the time. But enjoy Nola. It's amazing.

Posted: November 12, 2022
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Solo travel experience

I went there alone for about a week. In the evenings, I visited Frenchman Street and found it to be friendly and with a great atmosphere. The bar staff notices that you are alone and takes care of you. I felt completely safe at all times.

Posted: October 31, 2022
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Solo travel experience

I would recommend visiting during Mardi Gras. The city is magical, and it's an experience worth putting on your bucket list. It's also perfect for solo travel, because everyone in the city is REALLY friendly during this time. I attended Mardi Gras and felt completely safe, though I didn't stray too far from the tourist part of the city, I stayed in the French Quarter.

Posted: October 29, 2022
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Is New Orleans safe for women?

Lindsey

Lindsey

New Orleans has its issues just like any other city. It’s mostly just important to be aware of your surroundings. I would recommend Ubers or Lyfts to travel around the city. Using the Streer car is safe as well. New Orleans has an issue with carjackings and vehicle breakins so I’d recommend not driving in if that can be avoided.

Posted: February 25, 2024
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Is New Orleans safe right now?

Before your visit to New Orleans, 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 New Orleans worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 24 experiences

Solo travel experience

I went on my first solo trip to New Orleans, and I am really glad I did. It was a wonderful experience. I met great people and the city turned out to be incredibly hospitable, full of life, and beautiful.

Posted: January 19, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Claire

Claire (33)

United States

Family travel experience

I visited New Orleans with my family during Mardi Gras for my birthday and it was great, highly recommended! We did some parades - say Adam Devine on one float - and did some tours in the French Quarter. Lots of walking, lots of good food, lots of fun and lots of throws!

Posted: August 14, 2023Experienced: February, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in New Orleans

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

Karen

About Me

Recently relocated to New Orleans from California, semi-retired and self-employed and ready to journey with like-minded people. Independent, I like to explore, get lost and intimate with new places!

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Lindsey

Lindsey

About Me

Hi! I’m Lindsey. I live in the New Orleans area with my husband and two dogs. I love meeting new people, traveling and experiencing all the world has to offer.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in New Orleans

Stay with local women in New Orleans 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.
Kelly

Kelly

New Orleans

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello! I’m originally from Taiwan. Now I’m studying at Tulane for exchanging. New Orleans is a dynamic city, and also very fun to stay if you love good food, bars and vintage cafes. I speak Mandarin, English, Japanese and a little bit French. It’d wonderful if you’re interested in language exchange because I could be the best language exchange partner you’ve ever met😉

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Safety in United States