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

3.4 /5

Based on 5 experiences from female travelers

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.4 /5

Based on 13 experiences from local women

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How safe is Portland?

Safety at night:Moderate

Portland, is considered moderately safe at night. While most areas have well-lit streets filled with pedestrians, some parts may be desolate after dark. Thus, it is advised to stay aware of your surroundings and try to stay in populated areas. Keep emergency contacts on speed dial and avoid taking shortcuts through dark alleys. However, reports of crime targeting solo female travelers are relatively less. Public transport remains available and popular among locals, but it's advisable to use taxi/rideshare services after dark. Most residents are friendly and willing to help if necessary.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Portland is generally safe and reliable. This includes buses, light rail known as the MAX, and the streetcar. Transit operators are courteous and helpful, and many locals use the system daily for commuting or leisure. Drivers and security are typically vigilant and there are emergency buttons on board. However, as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling at night.

Street harassment:Low

In Portland, it's relatively moderate with respect to street harassment. Most areas are highly safe and people are generally respectful. That being said, like in any city, there can be exceptions and it's always important to stay vigilant, especially during late hours. Public transportation is typically safe, the communities are supportive and aware, making it a comfortable experience for solo female travelers. Nevertheless, it's recommended to take normal precautions as you would in any city.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and car break-ins do exist in Portland, especially in crowded touristic places and public transportation. However, with necessary precautions like keeping belongings secured and staying alert in crowded areas, these can be effectively avoided.

Is Portland worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.8 /5

based on 5 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.9/5

Safety

3.4/5

Food

3.9/5

Budget-friendly

2.5/5

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

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

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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Is Portland safe for women?

Safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 13 local experiences

Crime index

2.8 /5

Based on 13 local experiences

Stacy

I have never had an issue but keep my head on. Swivel no matter what city I’m in. I have never had a bad or poor experience in Portland. The areas that see quite a bit of homeless people are patrolled by police also.

Posted: October 27, 2024

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Jody

I feel like it’s no different than any large metropolitan area; stay aware, don’t put yourself in potentially dangerous situations and you should be fine. I walk everywhere and have never had any problems. That doesn’t mean I walk through a park in the middle of the night. There is street crime and mental health issues on the streets but I use public transportation and go downtown frequently with no issues

Posted: September 5, 2024

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Meet locals in Portland

Stacy

About Me

Staying in Marrakech Nov 11-17 and Tuscany Nov 17-22.

Speaking

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Erin

About Me

Hi! My name is Erin, I’m from Portland Oregon. I love music, watching movies, making new friends, and talking about all things. Here to enjoy this one life!

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Stay with locals in Portland

Olivia

Portland

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! So excited to connect with you all. I'm an outgoing, adventurous soul who loves spending time and nature and traveling to other countries to experience culture and food. You can find me on a mountaintop, on my bike or reading in a park.