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

3.5 /5

Based on 4 experiences from female travelers

4 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.4 /5

Based on 9 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

3.7 /5

based on 4 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.4/5

Safety

3.5/5

Food

2.8/5

Budget-friendly

3/5

Asmeeta

Nepal

Group travel

We stayed on AirBnb and the locality was decent but we knew we couldn’t walk around at night. People were telling us to keep our bags in places and be attentive. But we didn’t have any bad experiences. Used metro card for travelling around. There are lots of museums if you are into them. DC is mostly filled with administrative buildings. There is a zoo too. Overall the experience was good.

Posted: July 7, 2025

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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

3.4 /5

Based on 9 local experiences

Crime index

2.6 /5

Based on 9 local experiences

DC proper is quite safe for a solo female. I’ve never felt unsafe walking around alone as it is a busy place and you will encounter many other people outside. I would exercise caution after dark just like with any other place.

Posted: July 9, 2025

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Washington state is a great place to live in and has moderate to low crime rates where I live. Staying out of the higher crime rate areas is a most, of course, but as is everywhere. Keep yourself protected if you feel uncertain of your surroundings! Pepper spray, etc. I don't walk outside at night besides the neighborhood I live in, but that's because I'm afraid of the dark. Lol.

Posted: July 8, 2025

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