Is Philadelphia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Philadelphia, like many other large cities in the USA, has a mixed safety record. It's safe to move in tourist areas during the day but some neighborhoods are advisable to avoid especially at night. Always be aware of your surroundings, use well-traveled streets, and use common precautions that you would in any other large city.

Safety rating

2.9 /5

Based on 3 experiences from female travelers

3.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.8 /5

Based on 12 experiences from local women

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How safe is Philadelphia?

Safety at night:Moderate

Philadelphia, like most major cities, has areas that are both safe and unsafe. While the Center City neighborhood tends to be well-lit and busy with people even late at night, less frequented areas and parks are likely less safe. It's generally advised for a solo female traveler to avoid walking around late at night alone if possible, use well-traveled streets, and stay alert to her surroundings.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Philadelphia, including buses, metro, and trams, is generally quite safe during the day and at peak times. However, it’s recommended to stay vigilant particularly in the evenings and late-night hours, and in less crowded or poorly lit areas. Avoid empty compartments also for your own peace of mind. As always, keep an eye on your belongings to prevent pickpocketing.

Street harassment:Moderate

Philadelphia is a bustling city with an eclectic mix of diverse cultures and ethnicities. While every person's experience may differ, some solo female travelers have reported occasional catcalling or unwelcome comments. However, this is not a regular occurrence for all, but rather sporadic. Majority of the city areas are safe and people are friendly. As always, remaining cautious and traveling during daylight in populated areas can contribute to a favorable experience. Furthermore, Philadelphia police do take harassment seriously and can be reached when such situations occur.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft can occasionally occur in Philadelphia, mainly in crowded areas and on public transport. However, most travellers visit without any issues. It's always important to maintain alertness to your surroundings and keep your belongings secure to minimize risk. Furthermore, staying within popular tourist areas as well as practicing caution in non-tourist areas or at night, can help ensure safety.

Is Philadelphia worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

2.3/5

Safety

2.9/5

Food

2/5

Budget-friendly

2.3/5

Solo travel

I rented an Airbnb for a day, and it went well! I walked to the store with the Airbnb host and we chatted and got groceries, and the area felt safe. People were mostly friendly, and the grocery store I went to was very bougie but the food was meh. Philly cheesesteak is overrated as I learned.

Posted: January 22, 2025Experienced: April, 2023

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Group travel

I traveled with two of my friends to Philadelphia last year And it was the first time we did couch surfing And some of the places we went to weren’t that safe but we did not had any bad encounters Since we did couch surfing (and the host was very generous) we did not really have to paid for food I will say that it’s not a city with a lot activities but there’s some of the places and things we did : - got to celebrate St Patrick at a very nice pub (1116 Walnut St) - saw a show at the Wells Fargo Center (3601 S Broad St) - great pizza at OG Pizza (2500 Frankford Ave) - Cute Market : Reading Terminal Market (1136 Arch St) - Independence National Historical Park with the Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell - and for The Rocky’s fan there’s a statue and the stairs (of the Philadelphia Museum of Art ; 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway)

Posted: April 8, 2024

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Solo travel

I spent a couple of weeks in Philadelphia during covid. I found the people incredibly friendly, even though we were all keeping our distance. I biked around the city using Indego bikes, which are super affordable by the hour. My favorite Italian food is in Philly.

Posted: June 30, 2023

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Is Philadelphia safe for women?

Safety index

2.8 /5

Based on 12 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 12 local experiences

Safety levels in Philadelphia are highly dependent on the area. Strongly recommend avoiding Kensington in general. Manayunk/Wissahickon area I would say is the safest with city center somewhere in between, but city center does have a strong police presence with the courts there.

Posted: March 21, 2025

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Aurore

Philadelphia is great City with a lot of Culture I think for an American City. And as a big city there’s always downsides to it. I have never experienced any harassment or violence there but there is always a risk in a big city. But that should stop you from experiencing Philadelphia ! There’s good foods, the people are generally welcoming and it’s pretty walkable ! Just stay aware of your surroundings, like in any other big cities.

Posted: February 8, 2025

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