Is Washington Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Washington State, United States is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Like any travel destination, standard precautions are advised. Major cities such as Seattle are known to be safe, with friendly locals and well-patrolled tourist areas. However, some neighborhoods of larger cities can be less safe at night, so local advice should be sought and respected. Always stick to well-lit, crowded areas, especially in the evenings and take care of your belongings in crowded tourist locations to avoid pickpockets. Nature lovers will find the state's numerous national parks and outdoor spaces very safe and well-managed. Always be sure to inform someone of your plans if you are trekking or hiking alone.

Safety rating

3.7 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

4 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.1 /5

Based on 6 experiences from local women

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How safe is Washington?

Safety at night:Moderate

Washington, the capital city of the United States, is generally safe but it is advisable for solo female travelers to avoid some neighborhoods at night. Major landmarks, tourist spots, and busy commercial and entertainment districts are well-lit and patrolled by police making them safer. However, using transportation or staying in well-trafficked areas is suggested over walking alone, especially at night.

Public transportation:Safe

Washington generally offers quite a safe public transportation system. Both Metrorail and Metrobus are typically reliable and extensive, allowing easy access to various parts of the city and its suburbs. Regular security patrols can be typically observed in metro stations. However, like any city, it is always better to be cautious with your belongings and avoid travelling late at night whenever possible.

Street harassment:Moderate

In Washington, while the level of street harassment is relatively moderate, it still exists. Some areas of the city are safer than others, especially during daylight hours. Always ensure to stay in well-populated areas, avoid walking alone at night when possible, and keep your valuables well-hidden to reduce any unwanted attention. However, the majority of locals are welcoming and helpful to tourists.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Washington, D.C., like any other urban area, experiences petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and car break-ins. These incidents usually occur in crowded public spaces or popular tourist attractions. As a solo female traveler, always be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, especially in bustling locales.

Is Washington worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.5 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.7/5

Food

3/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

Farah

Tunisia

Group travel

We stayed at the Marriott Hotel during our exchange trip. The accommodation was decent for the experience, but unfortunately, the food at the hotel was below average. That said, the overall experience was really enjoyable. I loved exploring many of the city's monuments, and we even got the chance to attend a baseball game, which was a highlight! For food, I highly recommend Elephant & Castle and Pizza Uno at Union Station they were definitely a step up from the hotel dining. My favorite place was the National Gallery of Art a must-visit if you're in the city. Overall, the city felt quite safe, and I had a great time discovering it.

Posted: May 12, 2025Experienced: June, 2022

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Lisa

United Kingdom

Solo travel

DC was amazing! Lots to see and do. Feels v safe especially in tourists area,lots of cops around as it is the capital. Food was a bit pricey but u just need to find the right restaurant. Georgetown is my fav part with lots of pretty houses and lovely shops

Posted: September 11, 2024

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Group travel

Things went quite well. It was a Pokemon tournament, Worlds 2019, so it was a safe neighborhood. There was a nice hotel around the corner, cheap and simple bus transit to the post office and bus station. Starbucks by the convention center! When split with a group of 5, the hotel was super affordable. I think i spent 3-500 on the trip!

Posted: October 24, 2023

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Dempz

United States

Solo travel

I ran the Cherry Blossom 10 miler in April! The experience was amazing I used public transportation, from Dulles airport to the Metro into the city. Food was amazing!

Posted: April 12, 2023Experienced: April, 2023

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Is Washington safe for women?

Safety index

3.1 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

It’s pretty safe. But depends a lot on the area that you are in. Southeast on a certain side at night you don’t want to do that. ( anacostia) but for the most part it’s okay. Scary in metro to me. I drive.

Posted: February 1, 2025

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DC is highly neighborhood-dependent when it comes to safety. Heavily trafficked areas and the metro are generally quite safe, but it’s still a major metropolitan area and you do have to be aware of your surroundings. SW of the Capitol (any street name ending in SW) generally has the highest crime, but I don’t generally find myself in that area to begin with as most popular restaurants and activities are in NW or NE. Theft is probably the primary issue. Carjackings have been on the rise, as has crime by minors, but I don’t know anyone who has personally experienced this. Do not leave anything visible remaining in a car, as it will be targeted for a break in. Avoid wearing name-brand bags or coats such as Canada Goose, as those have also been targeted for thefts and muggings. There are very few tourist scams, however. That being said, I live in NW just a few stops from downtown, and it feels very safe—I regularly take the metro and walk home alone at night (including after 11pm on Fri/Sat) and haven’t had any major issues besides occasional cat calling/honking in over 4 years. There are frequently other people out and about at night. Do be extremely aware of your surroundings if there are only a few people around you, if you encounter a group of teenagers, or someone having a mental health crisis. Don’t hesitate to switch cars on the metro if you feel unsafe. You can also discreetly text metro police at 696-873 if you encounter an issue. Definitely avoid parks or the National Mall after dark. Happy to provide a breakdown per neighborhood if you have any questions!

Posted: January 9, 2025

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