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.

Is New Orleans worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 28 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.1/5
Lucero

Lucero

United States

Solo travel

Overall I felt pretty safe in the areas I visited. However I was super cautious about what streets I walked down and what time of day it was. There was only one time that things felt a bit uneasy. I walked to a restaurant as the sun was setting so it was dark out when I left. It turns out it was not a great area. That was the only time I didn’t do lots of research on the area beforehand. I felt okay since I called someone the whole way back. I stayed at a hostel and felt very safe and comfortable there. I also did a free tours by foot tour and a paid bus tour. I had a great experience with both and never felt unsafe. I especially recommend the free tours by foot tours for a more personable feel. For transportation I used the street cars whenever I couldn’t walk. To explore areas further out I booked tours.

Posted: September 1, 2024
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Amy

Amy

United States

Solo travel

Safety depends on the area. However, it is a very welcoming place for all cultures and solo travel. Exceptional food. Great bars and lounges for all scenes whether you want upscale lounge, dive bar, or live music.

Posted: August 9, 2024
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Solo travel

I arrived in the city of New Orleans from France (Strasbourg). At first, I was a little scared since it was my first time going to the American continent. I arrived in New Orleans. I really liked the city, it's super festive. If you're going to stay a few days, I recommend staying downtown. There are many hostels and hotels. The nightlife and festivities are from Monday to Monday.

Posted: July 6, 2024Experienced: July, 2024
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Solo travel

I have visited Nee Orleans 3x and each time my experience was different. New Orleans is an artist cites where their people who are paint artist, music artists and other people from around the world. This place is safe but just like every state there are rougher areas. The food is really good. I would recommend outside of Bourbon Street or high cities if you’re looking for something less expensive. Driving there can be quite hectic sometimes because they do like to cut you off. But if you drove for awhile or in an intense traffic before it’s not as bad. Overall, l liked it and I have stayed in hotels and Airbnbs.

Posted: June 7, 2024
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Izzy

Izzy

United Kingdom

Solo travel

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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Is New Orleans safe for women?

Safety index

2.2 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

new orleans can be safe as long as you stay in well lighted areas and with a group of people. also do not drink too much and wander off. if you follow these rules and pay attention to your surroundings you wholly be okay.

Posted: February 22, 2025
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Meet locals in New Orleans

Madelyn

Madelyn

About Me

Soon to be digital nomading throughout the world! I currently live in New Orleans.

Speaking

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Alexa

Alexa

About Me

Haiii! I’m Alexa, Cuban-American from Miami, currently living in NOLA. Looking to make friends and explore the city.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to New Orleans

Amanda

Amanda

About Me

I live in Wisconsin and would love to travel the US a few times a year - ideally I’d love to find someone else who works from home where we could plan a week here or there. Work during the day and explore at night and on the weekend(s). I love hiking, live music, hanging out by the pool, wineries and sightseeing. I also love trying new things and being out in nature ❤️

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Safety in United States