11 U.S. Cities Too Dangerous for Solo Travelers Right Now
Solo travel sounds dreamy until reality throws in a sketchy alley, a stolen wallet, or a bad vibe that makes you wish you’d stayed home. Some U.S. cities come with headlines that scream, “Maybe not alone.” High crime rates, shaky safety stats, and locals who lock up before sunset make certain spots less than ideal for lone wanderers. Our list isn’t about scare tactics—it’s about being smart, staying aware, and knowing where solo trips might need backup plans. These cities top the “travel with caution” list, especially if your only companion is your backpack.
St. Louis, Missouri
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This city’s blues scene might soothe your soul, but its violent crime rate could spike your heart rate. Murders, assaults, and robberies happen far too often—especially in the northern neighborhoods. Solo travelers should stick to daytime outings and well-trafficked spots. After sunset, it’s better to admire the Arch from afar.
Baltimore, Maryland
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Charm City’s harbor views can distract from the stats—high homicide numbers and rough patches in West and East Baltimore aren’t ideal for solo wanderers. Some neighborhoods flip from vibrant to volatile without warning. Stay in tourist zones, avoid late-night strolls, and let someone know your whereabouts before venturing far alone.
New Orleans, Louisiana
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The Big Easy can be big trouble when you’re alone after dark. While Bourbon Street buzzes with music and lights, surrounding areas like Central City and Treme tell a rougher story. Petty theft and violent crimes make this festive city a minefield unless you stay alert, sober, and street-smart.
Detroit, Michigan
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Detroit’s downtown has been revitalized, but the outer neighborhoods still battle gang activity, theft, and high assault rates. Solo travelers should lean into guided tours, daylight activities, and secure transportation because taking the scenic route here can go sideways really fast.
Cleveland, Ohio
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Some areas in Cleveland come with a lot of risk. East Cleveland, in particular, sees spikes in gun violence, carjackings, and muggings. Even locals often avoid certain streets after dark. Visitors should focus on well-lit entertainment districts and resist the urge to wander too far off-script when the sun goes down.
Kansas City, Missouri
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Barbecue, jazz, and a growing arts scene can’t mask this city’s crime issues. East Side in Kansas City neighborhoods see more shootings than solo travelers bargain for. While downtown’s more manageable, it’s easy to take a wrong turn.
Memphis, Tennessee
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Memphis might serve up Elvis nostalgia and spicy ribs, but it also dishes out high crime. South Memphis and Frayser neighborhoods are hot spots for violence, and even Beale Street has its risks after hours.
Newark, New Jersey
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Newark’s transportation hubs are tempting for solo travelers—but so are the thieves who lurk nearby. Car thefts, assaults, and muggings are no strangers to this urban sprawl. The South and Central Wards, in particular, can be risky.
Chicago, Illinois
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The Windy City’s skyline is stunning, yet its crime map tells a different tale. While downtown areas bustle with tourists, South and West Side neighborhoods often report alarming violence. It’s not a city for spontaneous solo wandering.
Cincinnati, Ohio
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It’s not the first city that springs to mind when thinking “dangerous,” but Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine and Avondale neighborhoods are no solo traveler’s paradise. Gun violence, theft, and assaults spike at night. It’s a town with pockets of charm, but you’ll need sharp instincts and clear boundaries to explore it alone.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Philly is known for crime in neighborhoods like Kensington and North Philly. Drug-related violence and muggings keep locals on edge. While the Liberty Bell shows some promise, solo travelers should tread carefully, especially after dark.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Beer, brats, and… burglaries? Milwaukee’s North Division and Metcalfe Park have seen too many headlines involving violent crime. It’s a city with some serious contrasts—festival by day, fear by night.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
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Tulsa’s art deco glow can fade fast in North Tulsa, where violent crime casts a longer shadow. Gun violence and property theft have become unfortunate parts of daily life in some pockets. Solo travelers can still enjoy the city’s beauty—just don’t explore randomly or let your guard down in quiet zones.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Steel City’s neighborhoods, like Homewood and the Hill District, have seen their fair share of trouble. Shootings, assaults, and drug activity still plague these areas. A solo stroll can go south quickly, so make sure your routes are vetted, visible, and never traveled blindly.
Indianapolis, Indiana
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Circle City’s charm dims when crime enters the equation. East Indianapolis sees high rates of homicides and assaults. While the downtown is polished and visitor-friendly, a few wrong turns can shift the tone quickly.