Is Portland safe for solo female travelers?

Portland is generally known as a safe and welcoming city for female solo travelers. There are well-lit popular areas with lots of foot traffic and the city's public transportation is often deemed reliable. However, like any other large city, one must be cautious, especially during late hours and in less busy areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching could happen, so always be mindful of your belongings.

Safety rating

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How safe is Portland for female travelers?

Travel safety index

3.4 /5

based on 5 experiences from female travelers

Solo travel

There is a cheese restaurant within the the town of Portland Maine that is open until 2 am! It has great scenery, nearby shops and it is a walkable town. I would recommend seeing a poet named Joe who is by the bay to write you a poem!

Posted: August 7, 2024
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Indigo

Indigo

United States

Solo travel

I traveled after a breakup. I always loved visiting Portland. I went to the Japanese friendship garden, hiked multnomah falls and just ventured out. I loved going there and I wanted to live there but couldn’t foit the bill. Met some very nice people as well. I miss the coffee.

Posted: February 27, 2024
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Solo travel

I made a solo trip to Portland in November last year. I only had 2.5 days, but I tried to make the most of that time. I ate and drank at many cool breweries and restaurants. Breakfasts were the most important. Portland definitely knows how to do a proper breakfast. I attended a great concert at Revolution Hall. I managed to watch people and walk along McCall's waterfront. One morning I went to Multnomah Falls (if you go early, there's hardly anyone there). Seeing a photo of Multnomah Falls put Portland on my travel list. I stayed in Southeast Portland (which I really liked) and walked almost everywhere.

Posted: September 19, 2023
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Ambria

Ambria

United States

Family travel

Portland is a super cute old New England town. Very walkable with lots of shops and coffee shops. Lobster rolls and fresh oysters here are amazing. Only have visited Portland for day trips and was able to see most of the city. Taking a a driving tour is helpful to get a feel and history of the city. There are also a lot of hills so you will definitely get your stairs in.

Posted: August 24, 2023
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Solo travel

I went on a quick solo trip to Portland and its surroundings. I loved the full-day trips and a few of the neighborhoods in the city. I had a wonderful time there. The city has a really relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and the people are incredibly nice.

Posted: August 15, 2023
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How safe is Portland for women?

Local safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 19 local experiences

Local crime index

2.8 /5

Based on 19 local experiences

Lindsey

Lindsey

Downtown Portland is like any other big city — I would say maybe safer than your average one. Be mindful of your surroundings, don’t engage in any suspicious or aggressive behavior, be careful walking around during the night. I would use ride share if possible!

Posted: July 3, 2025
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It’s pretty safe during the day. At night it can get a little sketchy in some parts but honestly it’s fine. Still be careful, the only thing is everything closes pretty early and the streets are fairly empty at night so it’s something to think about when you are alone. Pretty safe tho!

Posted: June 15, 2025
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I have been here for 4 months and I come from Europe so it is hard to say how safe it is in my perspective. At home I’m totally not scared to walk in the dark, but I am here and it’s because of all the American stories and a lot of homeless people. They usually let you be, but it still feels a little scary to walk around them.

Posted: February 15, 2025
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I'm sure there are worse places but in the time I've lived here Ive been caught up in a shooting, multiple police chases and been on the news. I've had friends, family and acquaintances get mugged, shot, and even go missing, someone we know got shot and killed last year just eating a burger in his car in a parking lot. Only 17 years old. I've personally been chased and threatened by homeless people multiple times, a lot of them are on drugs and unpredictable. #1 piece of advice is NEVER leave valuables in your car. My aunt got her window smashed for 3 dollars she left in the cupholder. Don't get me wrong, its definitely possible to go around the city fairly safely, but you have to be alert and I would never recommend being out without a car and its a lot safer if you're not alone. The city can be really fun and has a lot to offer, its not all that bad and can feel fairly safe, especially during the day, but it's just a reminder to be aware of your surroundings and think quickly on your feet.

Posted: February 3, 2025
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I live in a fairly safe part of the west side of Portland, so I’ve been privileged enough to not have to worry about safety. However, there’s lots of news of some crime, so to say things don’t happen would be ignorant.

Posted: January 26, 2025
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