Is San Francisco Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

San Francisco is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. It boasts of diversity, a friendly community, and ample public transportation options which make traveling across the city easier and safe. However, like any other city, it carries certain risks and has areas like the Tenderloin District where it's advisable to be extra cautious, especially at night. It is recommended to keep an eye on your personal belongings due to occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Safety rating

3.4 /5

Based on 13 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

2.9 /5

Based on 20 experiences from local women

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How safe is San Francisco?

Safety at night:Moderate

San Francisco is relatively safe compared to other US cities of its size. However, like any big city, it has areas that are more crime-prone than others. Late evenings can see an increase in crime, especially in less populated districts. It's recommended to be cautious when walking alone at night, make sure to stick to well-lit, populated areas, and always stay aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Safe

San Francisco's public transportation is generally safe, especially during daylight hours. The city's transport network, including buses and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system, is used daily by a diverse crowd of commuters, tourists, and locals. However, like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during off-peak times or in less crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive belongings openly, and preferably, travel light.

Street harassment:Moderate

San Francisco is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Tourist areas and business districts are well-policed and incidents of street harassment are relatively few. However, it's important to mention some areas of the city with higher rates of homelessness may present instances of unsolicited comments or behaviors. Always be aware of your surroundings, and if possible, avoid walking late at night in less crowded or unfamiliar areas. Remember that while San Francisco is a beautiful and mostly welcoming city, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Petty crimes:Moderate

San Francisco is a large urban city and, as such, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, theft, or scams can occur, especially in crowded areas or popular tourist spots. It is advisable to remain vigilant, secure your belongings, and avoid flashing expensive items in public. However, these incidents should not deter you from enjoying what the city has to offer. Care and caution can considerably reduce the risk.

Is San Francisco worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 13 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4/5

Safety

3.4/5

Food

4.1/5

Budget-friendly

2.9/5

Solo travel

San Francisco is quite safe at the daylight. You can meet some homeless people, but they are not crazy. I recommend stay in when sun goes down or walk only in crowded areas. Downtown and Chinatown are pretty crowded.

Posted: February 14, 2025

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Solo travel

It was pretty safe and convenient in San Francisco. Fisherman’s wharf and beaches were pretty nice. Sunsets were my favorite. Food, transportation and Uber, and accommodation were quite expensive though.

Posted: September 25, 2024

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Couple travel

I visited San Francisco in December 2023 and stayed with my husband. It was a great trip, the weather was great. We went on long drives along the coast and we saw migratory butterflies, seals, and sea lions. There are many good hikes around the area and beaches as well.

Posted: May 15, 2024Experienced: November, 2023

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Solo travel

For my first solo trip, I went to San Francisco. Of course, with any city, there are sketchy areas to avoid, but generally, I felt really safe. The city is very easy to navigate and I was able to get around quite easily.

Posted: February 8, 2024

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Diana

United States

Solo travel

It was fairly safe! Although, I went back to my hostel when it got dark and I used Uber half the time for transportation. If you love seafood, I highly recommend Swan Osyter Depot (get there as early as you can because the wait can take long)! For dim sum, I recommend Good Mong Kok Bakery! If you like relaxing and sightseeing, just walking through Crissy Field East Beach is calm ans scenic. stayed at Green Tortoise hostel. 🐢 The staff and people there were friendly! The hostel was calm and cozy even though it was next to bars and nightclubs. Absolutely enjoyed my time there overall!

Posted: January 23, 2024Experienced: November, 2023

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Shynar

Spain

Group travel

After my Work and Travel program in USA I have saved some money to travel to other states and big metropolitans. San Francisco was one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities i’ve ever seen! Me and my friend were staying in the city for 3 days but I recommend staying more if you have time. They have one of the most beautiful ChinaTown in the States because it’s the oldest one. I recommend taking more time to explore ChinaTown, vintage shops and authentic asian restaurants! I would also recommend visiting JapanTown and Golden Gate Park! The safety is moderate, and I would not recommend traveling at night alone.

Posted: December 20, 2023

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Is San Francisco safe for women?

Safety index

2.9 /5

Based on 20 local experiences

Crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 20 local experiences

Kyra

SF gets a really bad rap from the media. The city is beautiful and as a woman I truly feel safe in a majority of the neighborhoods. That being said staying diligent is important in any new city, but do not let the media intimidate you

Posted: July 7, 2025

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Every neighborhood has so many quirks and uniqueness to it, you will love exploring every part of SF. You can easily walk or public transit to most parts of the city. You can ask others for help or if you have any questions. The only neighborhood to be weary of is the Tenderloin.

Posted: May 22, 2025

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