Is Tuscaloosa Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

While Tuscaloosa is generally a safe place for solo travelers, it is still an urban area and it's wise to exercise general safety precautions. It's home to the University of Alabama so it tends to be lively, especially during football season. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're traveling around at night. Public transportation is reliable and it is safe to navigate around during the daytime. However, as with any place, it's best to avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas or neighborhoods that are known to be less safe.

Safety rating

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Make friends while traveling solo

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet other women, find travel buddies and stay with locals for free through hospitality exchange.

How safe is Tuscaloosa?

Safety at night:Moderate

Tuscaloosa, generally has a welcoming community and provides several well-lit areas throughout the city. It is recommended that solo female travelers stay in public, populated places, especially at night. Some areas, particularly closer to the university, can be bustling and may attract occasional petty crime. Getting around by official taxis or using trusted ride-sharing services can be a safer option instead of walking alone at night.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Tuscaloosa is considered quite safe. The buses maintain a reliable schedule and are usually found to be clean and well-maintained. The city also has a ride-share service available for further convenience. Local authorities encourage residents and visitors to use public transportation as a way of reducing traffic and promoting safety. However, as a general precaution, and as you would in any city, staying alert to your surroundings and not displaying valuable items is recommended.

Street harassment:Low

Tuscaloosa has a relatively relaxed atmosphere and is a fairly safe city for solo female travelers. Street harassment isn't a prominent issue here. Of course, it's always important to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially while traveling alone in any new place. While instances of street harassment can happen anywhere, it's not something that is widely reported or observed in this city.

Petty crimes:Low

Tuscaloosa is a moderately safe city with a crime rate that is slightly above the national average. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching or theft are relatively low. The majority of areas are safe to navigate, especially during the day. Still, as a solo female traveler, it's always wise to maintain regular safety precautions, secure personal belongings, and stay alert of surroundings.