Is Oakland Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Oakland, like many major cities, has safer areas and others that can be challenging. It's essential to stay vigilant, especially after dark and in less traveled areas. As long as you take standard precautions like avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, using trusted public transport, and staying in well-populated areas, your safety will generally be maintained. It's beneficial to familiarize yourself with your surroundings and gather information about the areas you plan to visit before you arrive.

Safety rating

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.2 /5

Based on 3 experiences from local women

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How safe is Oakland?

Safety at night:Unsafe

As a solo female traveler, it is advised to exercise caution while roaming in Oakland at night. Some areas of Oakland can be quite sketchy after dark with higher crime rates, hence it's beneficial to stay mindful of your surroundings. It's recommended to use reliable transportation during the night hours and to stick to well-lit, populated areas. However, the safety can vary significantly from one neighborhood to another. Remember, safety first.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Oakland, including buses, trains, and ferries, generally tends to be reliable and regularly patrolled for security. However, like any large city, it's important to remain vigilant, especially during off-peak hours and when traveling alone. Certain areas might be less safe than others. As a solo female traveler, it's recommended to stay alert, keep valuable out of sight, and avoid public transportation during late hours if possible.

Street harassment:Moderate

Oakland, US has a moderate level of street harassment. It's important to take precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods or during late hours. However, most parts of the city are known for their communal respect and decency towards women. It's recommended to stay in well-populated areas, use common safety measures, and be confident.

Petty crimes:High

Oakland has a considerable petty crimes rate with common reports of theft, robbery, and vandalism. High vigilance is advised when traveling in public spaces and public transport. Secure your belongings at all times and avoid displaying expensive items.

Is Oakland worth visiting?

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Is Oakland safe for women?

Safety index

2.2 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 3 local experiences

Tea

Your safety in Oakland (Alameda county) California is dependent on which areas you walk around in. Some places you will be entirely safe and others I would not feel comfortable telling someone to take that route after dark alone. Overall the streets are well lit and I’ve never had a problem myself, but if something does happen, our 911 response time is rather poor.

Posted: March 6, 2025

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Oakland is small city, Oakland is a big collection of cities, it's a place you might just want to know where you're going in. Being in the Bay Area, car break-ins are the highest in the country, and the lack of good shelter services make some people you may encounter on the street unpredictable. You'll want to lock up your bike and just be aware of your surroundings. They've put "civil Ambassadors" on Bart to make people feel safer and the busses are pretty convenient.

Posted: August 23, 2024

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Meet locals in Oakland

Clare

About Me

I was a long-time Couchsurfer until the pandemic, both as a host and a surfer. I love traveling and meeting travelers! My favorite things to do in a new place are wander around the streets, find a performance, admire the architecture, check out a museum, eat until I can't move, and (best!) have long talks with locals! My interests at home are reading, gardening, pottery, and camping alone in the wild.

Speaking

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Chris

About Me

I'm a journalist who enjoys crafting, thrift store shopping and hanging out with my cat when I'm not working.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Oakland

Chris

Oakland

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I'm a journalist who enjoys crafting, thrift store shopping and hanging out with my cat when I'm not working.

Speaking

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Kiara

Oakland

Can host for:

5 days

About me

Hi! I consider myself a lifelong learner picking up (sometimes unpractical) hobbies and interests! I enjoy poetry and appreciate the 90s video aesthetic. I studied Political Economy and am working in interdisciplinary research on the Reification of the Image and Democraftic Architecture. I'd like to work in some area of community development or involvement and enjoy how meeting new people widens that perspective :-)