United States : Safety by State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
The United States of America, also known as America, the U.S., or USA, is a vast region with 50 states to explore.
48 of the states are known as the “contiguous U.S.”
Alaska and Hawaii are both states but not directly connected by land to the main portion of the country.
There is also a group of locations known as U.S. Territories but aren’t technically states.
These include:
- American Samoa
- Guam
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Puerto Rico
- The Virgin Islands
Throughout the U.S., there are different regions to explore, each bringing its own unique qualities and safety risks.
The country has four time zones on the mainland, starting with the Pacific Time Zone on the West Coast and adding up to three hours until you reach the Eastern Seaboard.
Hawaii has its own time zone, which is three hours behind the Pacific Time Zone.
Part of Alaska is on the Hawaii/Aleutian Time Zone boundary, and the other part is known as the Alaska Time Zone.
The different regions of America might have some slippery boundaries in the title alone.
For example, the exact boundaries of the South have long been debated.
Texas likes to be its own location, not wanting to be considered the South or desert Southwest.
In general, the regions are, starting from the west and going east:
- Pacific Northwest: Washington & Oregon. Mountainous and rainy climates with some higher desert areas with less moisture.
- West Coast: Mainly California, both north and south. There have been discussions about dissecting California into two states, Northern & Southern, since the two halves of the state have very different climates regarding weather, politics, and lifestyle.
- Desert Southwest: Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Nevada. Hot, dry climates with many outdoor parks and attractions.
- Texas: Texas has different climates from one side to the other but is known for American pride, a love of legally owned guns, and a tough and resilient class of diverse people.
- Mountain States: The Rocky Mountains and related natural wonders spread across Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and the Dakotas.
- Midwest: Central states ranging from the plains to the rolling hills of the Ozarks to the colder weather of places like Minnesota and Michigan.
- South: Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, and – depending on who you ask – Virginia.
- Florida: Technically in the South, but no Floridian will agree with that. Florida is sort of its own separate place with many beaches and tropical weather.
- Mid-Atlantic: Moving up the seaboard, you’ll find Virginia (again, arguably), West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Rhode Island.
- Northeast: Aka “East Coast” with major cities like New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
The United States has seen a surge in violent crimes and homicides over the past few years, with gun sales increasing and an opioid epidemic growing with fentanyl-laced drugs on the streets.
If you are considering visiting from another country, the reports of mass shootings and violent crime might scare you, but there are no crime trends showing tourists are at a greater risk.
Crime risks aren’t just in big cities, as even some Midwestern towns face challenges.
There’s also an overall challenge of finding enough law enforcement officers to hold people accountable while giving criminals the due process they are constitutionally guaranteed.
Warnings & Dangers in United States
OVERALL RISK: LOW
There's a low overall risk, but that risk can change quickly depending on which city or state you visit. Homeland Security oversees terroristic threats on a global scale, the FBI investigates crime on a federal level, and communities are either served by law enforcement locally or county-wide.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
In most cities larger than 20,000 people are going to have public transportation in the form of buses, light rail systems, or trains. There's a strong network of highways across the country. Some highways have tolls, but the majority are toll-free. Rideshares are very popular, with Uber and Lyft dominating the business, while taxis are still available too. Many people find rideshares to be less expensive. Rental cars are widely available. For non-US residents, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you leave your home country. You cannot get an IDP in the U.S. if you are a citizen of another country.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Any larger city or high tourist traffic area will have a higher pickpocket rate. Places like Disney World, beaches, and New York City should be approached with medium risk. The truth is, pickpocketing or purse snatching can happen anywhere. Always carry as little as necessary with you and use concealed pockets for important items like cash, passports, and hotel keys.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Each section of the country has its own risks. All cities or counties also have an Emergency Management Department that lists local risks and safety plans. Tornado season heats up in the Midwest and South in the spring. Hurricane season runs along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastlines from June through October. Wildfire season out West happens in the summer, but wildfires have been growing in intensity and can last well into the fall. Winter brings heavy snow to the northern and northeastern states, but there's not always going to be snow on the ground.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
The risk of being mugged is city-dependent, so review our local reports of cities before you visit. You should know that police in every city will tell you never to fight back against a robber, as it's not worth risking your life over a mobile device, wallet, or personal item.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Homeland Security and state-wide investigation bureaus protect each state, but some places are at a higher risk. Any large population area is going to get a higher risk. Nearby military bases increase risk as well. Remote areas are at a smaller risk but could also be a hiding place for what's known as "homegrown terrorists." The "See Something, Say Something" motto spans across the country. It encourages people to report any suspicious activity - even something as simple as an abandoned piece of luggage.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
The Better Business Bureau is a great resource to find local scams happening in the region or city you plan to visit. Rental scams are a big challenge in tourist areas. In these cases, scammers will steal photos of legitimate properties but falsely advertise that they are for rent. Potential tenants are asked to wire money ahead of time to secure the property. When travelers arrive, there is no rental home available and no way to recoup that lost money. You should also be wary of any deal that seems too good to be true or where you are pressured to make a decision.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Women should always proceed with caution when visiting a new location. As exciting as going on holiday is, don't bring high-value items like designer bags or expensive jewelry. It just risks making you a target for a would-be thief. A new trend in nightlife safety involves a woman who feels uncomfortable with the way another patron is treating her to go to the bar and order an "Angel Shot." It's a simple way to tell the bartender you are in a tough situation and need help without alerting the person bothering you.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Each water utility is required to provide a Consumer Confidence Water Quality Report yearly. Those reports are required to be on the utility website for review. You can also call the Safe Water Hotline 24/7 at 800-426-4791 if you have specific questions about any location's water quality.
Safest Places to Visit in United States
Disney World or Disneyland, located in Orlando, Florida, and Anaheim, California, are safe places to visit, with cities built around them to accommodate larger tourist crowds.
There will be a greater risk of petty thefts and a greater security presence on all levels – from business security guards to law enforcement to Homeland Security offices.
The Grand Canyon is one of the eight wonders of the world and brings in a lot of tourists throughout the year.
Visitors can also parlay a trip here to see Phoenix or Sedona, Arizona.
Parks throughout the U.S. are listed at a national, state, or local level.
For example, Yellowstone is a National Park, while Cumberland Falls in Kentuck is a state park.
What’s the difference?
Entrance fees and laws might slightly differ, but there are no identification requirements that make one preferable over another.
Las Vegas is one of the top tourist attractions in the world, with a 24/7 lifestyle with budget-friendly options all the way to the lap of luxury.
Local casinos also dot the landscape of the famed “Las Vegas Strip,” and there are natural attractions nearby like Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon.
Big cities like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Boston, Philadelphia, Dallas/Ft Worth, and Seattle bring in large crowds, and each has very different safety advice.
We’ve broken down the reports on this website into the individual cities and suburbs of these regions, so you have the best possible information.
The beaches of Florida, North & South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, and Texas (not an exhaustive list) are popular as well, but crowds will build up during Spring Break and winter when the heat and humidity aren’t as intense, and there isn’t a hurricane possible.
A trip to Hawaii or Alaska might feel like you’re going to a different country, but it’s still subject to the federal laws of the United States.
Each state has its own rules too.
For example, Hawaii is very particular about pets coming in due to it being a “rabies-free” environment.
Alaska will have days with more than 20 hours of sunshine or darkness since it’s so far north.
Places to Avoid in United States
There isn’t any place you need to avoid when visiting the United States, but you should research the climate before you go.
If you want a beach getaway, there’s a difference between the crowds of Miami and the laid-back nature of Sarasota.
If you don’t like humidity, you might enjoy the desert southwest, with an arid climate but temperatures that get into the triple digits half the year.
If you want big crowds, going to Wyoming isn’t going to be a good idea, but if you want open country, beautiful scenery, and mountain peaks, you’ll love it.
You should be familiar with the common U.S. holidays, as most government agencies will close down on those days.
As of 2022, these are the federal holidays:
- New Year’s Day: January 1
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: The third Monday of January
- President’s Day: The third Monday of February
- Memorial Day: The last Monday in May
- Juneteenth: June 19
- Independence Day: July 4
- Labor Day: The first Monday in September
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day: second Monday in October
- Veterans Day: November 11
- Thanksgiving Day: The fourth Thursday in November
- Black Friday: The day after Thanksgiving. It’s not a federal holiday, but many state offices choose to close on this day.
- Christmas Eve: Not a federal holiday, but many state and local offices either close or work half-days.
- Christmas Day: December 25
Each state might have its own holidays as well.
For example, Nevada Day is celebrated in the Silver State on the last Friday of October.
All city and state offices are usually closed, and school is out statewide.
The places to avoid have “the devil is in the details.”
For example, there are many reasons to visit Chicago – there are also some really dangerous areas.
Iowa is generally considered a nice Midwestern state, but there are some communities battling major drug and crime issues you might not expect.
Safety Tips for Traveling to United States
- As part of “See Something, Say Something,” you don’t call Homeland Security to report an issue. The local law enforcement takes the complaint and then decides how far to escalate the concern. For example, an unattended bag at a carnival might get the local police there, who then call the bomb squad, who might then call the FBI. 911 is the universal call for emergency help in the United States and will connect you to any local emergency center.
- The U.S. Department of State, or State Department as it’s casually referred to, is the best source for information about visiting this country. There is detailed information about the Visa process and great warnings about Visa scams. Please review this site in detail before you start your Visa application.
- If you are visiting from Mexico, Brazil, China, or India, look for the State Department’s “Straight Facts” section of the website. These documents break down common myths or rumors circulating and give you direct information about requirements and concerns.
- American English is the language of the land, and Americans are as bilingual as some other countries. You can generally find people who speak Spanish, and there are bilingual people at hotels and tourism bureaus. If you don’t speak English and need help, Americans are very willing to help you find someone to communicate with you. Just avoid asking someone on the street. Approach a law enforcement officer or a hotel front desk worker.
- The U.S. measures distances in miles and temperatures in Farenheight. One mile is 1609 meters. To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 and multiply by 5556.
- Different regions of the country have different access or slang terms, just like any other country. The people in the South tend to speak a little slower with a thick accent, while people in the northeast are going to speak faster with a wide variety of accents.
- Since America is a country full of immigrant populations, you might find pockets of different nationalities in surprising locations. For example, Pella, Iowa, has a rich Dutch culture. Wilbur, Nebraska, has a large Czech population.
- Each city or country usually has its own tourism bureau with a website separate from city and county government websites. These websites and apps are great tools for finding the best and safest tourist attractions in a location.
- Bring a universal adapter so your electronics will be able to use the American Type A and Type B sockets. Many stores like Walmart, Target, Walgreens, and Best Buy have adapters available if you forget one.
- Much of America has age limits for buying alcohol, usually 21. Gambling is generally 21 years old, but some places might allow 18-year-olds. Smoking is generally frowned upon in American communities, with some places not even allowing smoking outside businesses. Check locally before you visit so you know the law.
So... How Safe Is United States Really?
Illegal guns, legally carried guns, violent crimes, murders, drug crimes, and thefts are all on the rise in the United States.
Over the past few years, mass shootings have become more common, and an opioid epidemic has rattled communities from coast to coast.
You should never take a prescription drug unless it’s from a licensed pharmacy like Walgreens, CVS, or Rite Aid.
Drugs are being shipped to the U.S. with potentially deadly doses of Fentanyl inside.
A drug user wouldn’t know the difference when looking at or tasting a drug.
The majority of the crimes are among people who know each other, like gangs or domestic issues between couples or families.
You should avoid any situation where tension is mounting, people are arguing, or where it just doesn’t feel safe.
Trust your gut.
Don’t walk down dark alleys at night.
From abroad, it might seem like America is a violent place with gunshots at every corner.
It’s not as safe as it has been in the past, but it’s also not a place where you need a bullet-proof vest.
Unfortunately, you can’t trust people on the street in America, since there are too many scams that prey on the kindness of strangers.
That doesn’t mean people in America aren’t friendly – it’s just too risky.
Trust the people who are paid to help you stay safe, like the concierge at a hotel or a police officer.
Avoid buying anything from the trunk of a car or from someone wandering the street, as gold scams are growing in popularity.
There’s an 11% poverty rate in America, with some cities having as high as 30% of people living in poverty.
You’ll likely see homeless people and panhandlers in any city you visit.
You should not give these people money, no matter how sympathetic you are.
Instead, donate to a local homeless shelter if you are so inclined.
With so many great places to visit in the U.S., there’s no reason to avoid it.
It’s hard to explain the country in one broad stroke, which is why we’ve diligently detailed each state, metro area, and city to help you determine your best path.
How Does United States Compare?
Country | Safety Index |
---|---|
United States | 68 |
Morocco | 54 |
Germany | 85 |
Romania | 80 |
Namibia | 71 |
Netherlands | 75 |
Chile | 79 |
Mongolia | 71 |
Qatar | 84 |
Useful Information
Visas
The U.S. State Department has a great "Visa Wizard" that takes you through a series of questions to get you the exact Visa you need for your trip. This can help eliminate guesswork and possibly save you time and money during the process. Some people will qualify for the "Electronic System for Travel Authorization" (ESTA), which is a Visa waiver program.
Currency
You can only use the U.S. Dollar nationwide, and there aren't places that will accept other currency in 99.9% of the cases. Credit cards are widely accepted and encouraged, as they provide the best theft and fraud protection. ATMs will be found everywhere but come with different fees. Whenever possible, go into a bank to make a transaction and avoid using ATMs at night or in remote areas.
Weather
Each area of the country has different weather patterns. Winters in the South will be milder than winters in Minnesota. When you review each city on our website, you'll see a chart with average temperatures for each time of the year. West of the Rockies, you'll find drier air, which means less humidity but also more risk for dehydration. East of the Rockies, it's going to be more humid and have more potential for severe weather like tornadoes. Always bring plenty of layers, from t-shirts to hoodies, and shoes, from sandals to hiking boots. Some tourist attractions, like caves, will require closed-toed shoes. Bring bug spray and sunscreen for any time of year.
Airports
America has more than 5,500 public airports. International Airports are those that have flights outside of the country, but be wary - just having a few flights to Mexico can make an airport "International." The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) oversees airport safety and can break open locks on luggage if there are suspicions about what is inside. Before a non-US resident leaves the airport, they'll have to go through Customs and Border Patrol. Be very serious when you go through this process, and don't make any jokes or try to start random conversations. Just do as you are told and answer questions directly. Each airport should have a place to exchange currency.
Travel Insurance
All hospitals and medical centers in the country will require payment, so if you don't have health insurance with U.S. coverage, please buy travel health insurance. It's not worth a $5,000 emergency room bill for stitches from a fall or crutches for a sprained ankle. Severe weather of any kind can not only cause local delays or cancelations but can also have ripple effects across the country. A snowstorm in Denver, for example, can impact flights in all directions since it's such a large hub.
United States Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
High °C | 6 | 8 | 13 | 19 | 25 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 27 | 21 | 15 | 9 |
Low °C | -4 | -3 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 17 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 8 | 3 | -1 |
High °F | 43 | 46 | 55 | 66 | 77 | 84 | 88 | 88 | 81 | 70 | 59 | 48 |
Low °F | 25 | 27 | 36 | 45 | 54 | 63 | 68 | 66 | 59 | 46 | 37 | 30 |
United States - Safety by City
State | Safety Index |
---|---|
Alabama | 80 |
Alaska | 65 |
Arizona | 86 |
Arkansas | 74 |
California | 70 |
Colorado | 82 |
Connecticut | 86 |
Delaware | 70 |
Florida | 70 |
Georgia | 65 |
Hawaii | 78 |
Idaho | 85 |
Illinois | 77 |
Indiana | 61 |
Iowa | 82 |
Kansas | 81 |
Kentucky | 64 |
Louisiana | 68 |
Maine | 86 |
Maryland | 65 |
Massachusetts | 84 |
Michigan | 80 |
Minnesota | 74 |
Mississippi | 65 |
Missouri | 64 |
Montana | 88 |
Nebraska | 82 |
Nevada | 79 |
New Hampshire | 85 |
New Jersey | 85 |
New Mexico | 65 |
New York | 82 |
North Carolina | 64 |
North Dakota | 82 |
Ohio | 80 |
Oklahoma | 65 |
Oregon | 88 |
Pennsylvania | 59 |
Rhode Island | 85 |
South Carolina | 65 |
South Dakota | 77 |
Tennessee | 55 |
Texas | 65 |
Utah | 86 |
Vermont | 85 |
Virginia | 87 |
Washington | 88 |
West Virginia | 61 |
Wisconsin | 64 |
Wyoming | 70 |
Real opinion from someone who is not American but who have lived and travelled to the USA
Ok… pickpockets risk : low? !!!!!!!!! Women travelers risks: low?!!!!!! LOOOOOOL…. the person who wrote this article is delusional or American, or probably both!!!!!
The USA is one of the most dangerous country you could end up in! I like this country, but let’s keep it real… you do not watch the News!!!!! The everyday criminality level is high ( check the official numbers…)
said mass shootings are highly unlikely at places frequented by tourists, guess las vegas doesn’t count
The person responding above must have had a bad experience , hangs out in the wrong places or just has an issue with the US. If you travel you just don’t go to bad parts of any city in the world. It is safe but always keep your guard up as a traveler and a woman anywhere.
REAL REVIEW REAL AMERICAN
The United States Is NOT A Safe Country… Especially if you are BLACK, HISPANIC, ASIAN, Or an Immigrant That A Person Of Color!! The police are Criminal Gangs…Opioid addiction is at an Al Time High… Driving is Not Safe, Especially in Large Cities…. Homelessness is High…Unemployment is HIGH…and Covid is Widespread!!! I am American… Lives here for 56 plus years… Many Americans are trying to leave…Come here at your own risk and expense!!
Get a grip
This is clearly a political response LMAO. I reckon you haven’t done much traveling in your “56 years.”
Liar.
Agreed. Yvonne sounds like she belongs to BLM. I understand that blacks are not safe from other blacks, but explain to me how Asians are not safe in America. They experience the lowest rates of crime victimization of any racial group residing in this country.
@Kane
there’s been plenty of attacks on asian americans and poc generally by the pigs in the American police force. I’m assuming you’ve never left your rich suburb and seen what the rest of the country is like
Huh? Asians Elders get attacked daily especially over the course of the Coronavirus. It s been all over the news. Also, yes. Black people get targeted by the police over white people. It’s a real thing. A black woman got hit by a white woman in a mall and the white girl freaked out and got away with it. If the black woman hit her, she wouldv’e been in prison.
Are you implying black lives don’t matter? Or are you in america being told that black people standing on their humanity and truth is nothing more than a political ideology worth dismissing… while on a thread that’s talking about whether or not it is safe – as if only Europeans are coming to visit.
In 2020 hate crimes against Asian Americans went up76% and in 2021 164% they might be safer sure when you look at just the number in without considering there are fewer Asians, but when you break it down to percent of the population victimized it’s higher than average. Asian travelers are also at a higher risk of trafficking, because of language barrier, few Americans speak Asian languages, if the do speak one they might not speak one of the 100s of different Asian languages or dialects. The thing about cops is true too. I also live in US and my white kid got pulled over everything was fine until he rolled down the window and the cop saw the 2 black kids in the back seat then it was “out of the car” with his hand on his gun. I’ve seen that video, thats how it happend. Just because you haven’t experienced it doesn’t mean it’s not true. The US is safer than a lot of countries. They’ll probably be fine, but doesn’t mean it’s political either.
The irony of a person telling their experience of being safe and you denying it and immediately trying to associate it with politics. Tell me the time your politics stopped something negative from happening to a black person? I won’t wait, because you wont have any
Yvonne's a lying fool.
Delusional.
You know you are proving the point
DONT come to AMERICA if your not WHITE!
Yvonne is definitely NOT lying and the ones that say she is well THEY are part of the AMERICAN RACE PROBLEM!
grow up . the USA is very safe and very accommodating to all who visit and respect her .
Agree
Well stated!
USA FACTS!
100% accurate Yvonne! I was born in UK, speak 5 languages (including sign), have traveled to 13 countries and lived in the USA for many years, caring for mum. *If English is not your first language or if you have 2 drops of melanin; brown black yellow red, Enter at your own risk and know that you are not welcomed in this Native land.*
It’s as Amazing as you Want it to be
Are you a crazy person? I’m American, lived in London for 5-years and was SHOCKED how racist and anti-Semitic the English are. Yes, racism exists here, but nowhere on the level of Europe. My brother lives in Berlin and loves it there, but the German people do not like or want the Turkish, and blacks struggle with acceptance. This happens throughout Europe and is not just an American problem. Keep in mind your country is as big as a state and there are regions like the south that have much deeper problems than the New England region or West Coast. Too many of the posts on here are obviously from people who watch way too much sensational news and have no idea about reality. That’s their job, to make you want to watch and keep watching. A nice gesture does not make the news (that’s an entirely different problem). There is no greater city than NYC and it is safer than your intelligence!
Lier
Here is a perfect example of a lunatic. America is not safe, it is full of deluded, mentally unstable, racist psychopaths.
Your crazy, I am a American and there is 0 to none racism here.
Wow, that’s totally false. You must live in a highly white populated state. I live in a diversity state, where we have every race in the world. I’ve been pulled over just because, I had my black friends with me. We did nothing wrong. My Latino friends are treated the same way. Any other race and most police won’t pull you over. We have a ton of homeless drug addicts as well. It’s really sad.
Where do you live, im a white suburban female and have a few black neighbors and I’ve seen it. How have you not?
Yvonne is a freeloader and can leave anytime
Rewritten by a Real American:
The United States is NOT a safe country in black and Hispanic communities where there is an accepted culture of crime and gang violence. The police do all that they can, except when Democrat leadership tells them to stand down. Opioid addiction is at an all time high thanks to Democrats allowing mules from Mexico to come right in. Illegal immigrates are also largely responsible for sex trafficking of children (Democrats make up the rest). Driving is not safe in urban area where thugs turn to car-jacking instead of getting a job. Homelessness is high especially for those cultures that frown on having a job (probably the case for Yvonne). Covid is widespread in urban areas because thugs only wash their hands after committing a crime. No one is trying to leave. If they were trying to leave, they would have left. Every four years celebrity Democrats threaten to leave if a conservative were to get elected, but they never leave. The rest of us Americans welcome celebrity Democrats to leave, but they just stay sucking off the freedom of this great country.
100% agree.
You’re proving her point with your retarded statement 🤣🤣
The irony. I bet you really think you are making a point too. It is obvious you don’t know ish or do ish besides act like a POC online while attempting to put every hate stereotype you can find in a post about whether or not a country is safe. You don’t even see it o you. I don’t know if I should blame your parents, your school system, or did everyone just give up on you for being this stupid on purpose
YES!!!! America is NOT safe. Leave now and never come back. If you live here and are afraid for your life, please go to Mexico right away… oh wait, they do not have food stamps there.
huh?
Mexico is dangerous why go there?
No no no
Dude Mexico is dangerous than America was. Canada is much more safer there, so how about go to Canada instead
Yeah bro
What they both say, Mexico is really dangerous over there. Mexico has shooting, rapist, and kidnapping over there. Even though I am Mexican but I live in the safe city in America. What xxxx says yeah go to Canada instead.
America
Don’t let the criticisms of the people who are far left & far right influence you. It’s still a great country, just don’t talk politics. As with anywhere you travel in the US use your common sense & wit. Come & visit, experience the great cities & National parks, so much beauty calls there.
Someone Please Check this Racist Karen
You’re totally racist and psychotic and delusional, but what is to be expected from some of you people at that point in time? Not shocking at all.
We’ve seen little precious Caucasian Timmy grow from his lily-white suburb to grab his AR-15 and slaughter innocent children at the local American school many times.
Something people in those ‘Black and Hispanic” communities don’t really fear in their areas. Guess the “gangs” tend to keep it in the gang. Bless them for that.
P.S. Communities are economic based, not race based Karen. Get a clue.
Very true. Unfortunate that the ones who are most dangerous are the ones who would dismiss your view and try to assert their own. Go figure. Being black here in America is much more “trying” and dangerous than I have ever felt traveling most places in the world. But It isn’t all and every euro-american (white person) – but you will know those groups. Very eas to recognize. and the cops are not your friend a majority of the time
Safe
Actually… United States is safer for Asians than Whites. 😂
Funny how it’s pretty much all blacks attacking Asians. I’ve lived in the United States my whole life and the only time I’ve ever been The victim of a violent crime was when I was a kid. An adult black woman assaulted me and multiple of my friends for no reason. We were children. Stay away from them when you’re in the US and you’ll be fine.
Let's Fight Racism with more Racism: True Peak American Logic
I’m sorry, so I’m suddenly responsible for the psychotic black woman that attacked you as a child because of complexion?
Maybe you’re just as racist as she was, perhaps.
Statistically speaking, Asian Americans are mostly victims of hate crimes at the hands of White Americans, as most other “minority” groups are.
Plus, didn’t an Asian man just slaughter an entire dance studio filled of Asian people in Monterey Park, California back in January, or was it that adult Black woman you spoke of from your childhood? hmmm. . . . .
You know you can look up statistics too right...?
You should really check statistics before you make posts like this. I don’t know when you made this (obviously post-covid) but unemployment and homelessness are not “HIGH” by any means, whether you look at it in terms of the US historically or when compared to the rest of the world. US unemployment in Dec. 2021 3.9% compared to 7% in Europe and homeless rates in US are less than half that of countries like Sweden, Luxembourg, France, Australia, or the UK. “Many Americans are trying to leave” is anecdotal and subjective and I would be curious to know how you would even know this considering your lack of knowledge of the statistics above.
The U.S. is quite safe, but the news agencies sensationalize crime from small, concentrated areas and make it seem like it’s everywhere. Yes, you need to be aware of your surroundings, but the chances of being the victim of a crime are low if you stay away from areas that are known for crime, and honestly, why would a tourist go to these areas anyway? Every country I’ve been to has good and bad areas. Do your research and enjoy seeing new things.
“Do not watch the news” “Check the official numbers” Jeez lady.
Reality Check
Yvonne really needs to get back on her meds. Her neighborhood may be a dump, and if the cops are hostile, maybe it’s due to the issues caused by some residents. As long as you stay out of the crappy part of town, you’re no less safe than most other large cities worldwide.
How about y’all chill on Yvonne and respect that she has an opinion. And you who are saying she’s crazy liar and on meds are a part of the reason she said what she said .. relax you fkn hypocrites
Always watch your 6
Well said. You should always be cautious when visiting any place where there are humans. There are many good ones and there are many bad.
Joe
I agree on all of the personal comments, many of which were totally inappropriate and uncalled for. However, when it comes to her opinions, we do not have to respect them when those opinions consist of assertions which can be proven false with even the most cursory of Google searches. Opinions on the value/morality/goodness of the police, individual perceptions and lived experiences, and the like are opinions to which everyone is entitled, but we are not entitled to our own facts and the facts disprove the other points she was trying to make.
Including violence & racial harrasment, that’s perfect for you to desrcibe the word, “safe” country overall
perspective from someone who lived in America his whole life
uh US is the best yes I dont watch the news but I lived in this beautiful country my whole life I don’t know where you live but you have a small brain there’s only been one major terrorist attack in the 21th century that’s 911 you probably live in a country that hates America. They even call it “the land of immigrants” and ‘the free country’ me and my whole family never been pickpoketed in the US
As an American I can say that if you fly into a bigger city here, to stay safe, rent a car and get the hell out of that city. City’s are and always have been highly populated. In city’s your going to have more crime because you have more people (and more people looking for trouble). I would say that if you can get out in of a city and into a nice small town to explore and shop around in your experience of America will be amazing. Everyone’s always getting on small towns being the worst places for hate on minorities. The fact for most small white towns is that we don’t grow up around a lot of other colored people. This doesn’t mean that we don’t want to invite them into the town. However, people from these towns because of the lack of experience with people from other countries will treat these people kindly like we treat everyone else in our town. People in city’s are always in a big rush and are always mad for whatever reason. If your a tourist looking for a nice trip to America find a out of town place to go in a state that doesn’t get all the hype on the news. They’ll treat you the best and give you the best service around.
Not so horrible--just need to know where you're going
“Most dangerous”? That is a massive exaggeration. It’s nothing like visiting North Korea, South Sudan, or Afghanistan–countries where that label would actually apply. Due to the size of the country, I agree with the article’s recommendation that you do prior research on your intended destination(s) as there can be some bad pockets. All countries have these but with very large countries like the US it can be a mistake to try and assign one blanket rating to the entire country, or even to some cities as a whole.
You need to know the specific cities you plan to visit. Even the same state can have some better cities, some worse. Some cities are relatively safe, but others have suffered from poor public policy (“decriminalizing” of violent offenses and defunding of police). For instance, I would give a mostly positive recommendation to Nashville or Pittsburgh, for example, but I would advise everyone–including Americans–to stay away from cities like San Francisco, Portland (whoever rated this in the green is delusional), Seattle, or Los Angeles.
Another thing I’d mention…the overall rating for the US probably also takes a hit because we tend to get screwed by the weather. Don’t assume all of that negative rating is due to crime. It’s true, if you’re coming from somewhere like Europe, you’ve likely never seen weather as temperamental and violent as ours can get. BUT, if you pay attention to it before you go and when you get here, you’re generally going to be safe as far as natural disasters are concerned.
I also agree with the recommendation to buy travel insurance. Hopefully you won’t get sick on vacation here or anywhere else in the world, but the insurance will save you a lot of hassle where dealing with our health care system is concerned. (Great quality of service, but the billing side of it can be a huge mess.) Travel insurance will also be useful if our fickle weather decides to do something especially nasty…if you want to go to one of our East Coast or Gulf Coast cities during hurricane season, it will definitely give you some peace of mind to have that on hand.
Nonsense
One of the most dangerous countries you can end up in? Perhaps you are mistaken about who is actually delusional. “The News” is not necessarily the best source for accurate information especially when it comes to crime and its ACTUAL prevalence and depending upon your “news” source, can range from misleading to outright false.
For perspective, the UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime) homicide rate for the US sits at 4.96 per 1,000 people. While this is higher than many other developed countries, it is lower than the world average of 7.31 and far lower than many other popular tourist destinations such as Jamaica (43.85), Belize (37.79), The Bahamas (31.96), Saint Lucia, (21.44), Seychelles (12.54), etc. just to name a few.
The fact that it is well below even the average rate disproves your claim that the US is “one of the most dangerous countries you could end up in” on its face but makes it laughable when you consider what the high end of the spectrum actually looks like (52.02).
The “everyday criminality level” is hard to gauge given that this is not actually a thing so perhaps you should check the official numbers (or any numbers since you didn’t bother to offer any) but violent crime, in general, is on the decline and has been for over 30 years, falling by 49% according to FBI data or 74% according to the DOJ in that span The US is a big country and there are places which (like anywhere else in the world) can be potentially dangerous.
However, the vast majority is perfectly safe and the notion that it is somehow among the world’s most dangerous places is completely false and your comments are absolutely absurd. You should take your own advice and check the official statistics or better yet, take a trip to Syria, Honduras, Somalia, or El Salvador then come back and give us an update.
It's very safe.
Your being hysterical. The US is a ginourmous country and the “dangerous” areas are probably less than 1% of the land mass. The vast majority of murderous shootings take place in restricted parts of cities. Suicide is another story but someone killing themself won’t impact your travel. Yes, the news likes to upsell the crime but that’s because it will always draw more viewers and clicks with scary stories than it will with the 99% of the country where the big news is a new employer opening up dozens of jobs.
If you’re really here (which I doubt) and are being truthful (ditto) then you’ve got to be hanging out in the bad part of whatever metro you’re in (Or in Baltimore, which is not representative of most other cities).
USA is among the most unsafe countries in the world
Overall, not just in specific areas, USA is among the unsafest nations in the world.
No “western” country is close to be as unsafe.
And most African, Asian and South American countries are safer.
The only ones who don’t know this, seem to be USamericans themselves.
Totally blind for facts and realities.
Completely agree Fred
The United States definitely has freedom of speech.
It's a big diverse country
You must have had experience in some tough inner city areas? Where you travel and live makes all the difference. The country is huge and extremely diverse. Yes, firearms are part of the history but I have lived here all my life ( 65 years) and have only seen a gun pulled once, 40 years ago by a cop in NY making an arrest. You chances of injury are much higher crossing the street then being shot in the US. The Homicide rate of less then 5 per 100k does not rank in the top 50. It’s a big big country.
The news doesn’t really matter it’s a taurus I don’t know how to spell it but the new it doesn’t really matter it’s for a safe place unless if you go to Florida just don’t go to Florida there’s like nothing bad just Florida man and those alligators are scary I wouldn’t really suggest going to basically anywhere with the population of over 1,000,000 1/2 maybe 2 million and another half
Thats the problem, you watch the “News.” STOP, it is infesting your brain with bad info. The “News” ain’t the news. The “News” make an isolated incident, or a very rare incident, seem like an epidemic. We are a gigantic country, it’s extremely safe…unless your stupid and hang out in dangerous areas at dangerous times.
As an Natural Born American citizen, who has lived here all his life, I must say the person who wrote this article is delusional and very much “Candy Coating” the truth. America is full of street crimes especially in the major cities where most foreign tourists travel. Lots of muggings, purse snatching, pick pockets, and yes even car jackings. People get ruffied and drugged in bars and later robbed and/or raped. Many small theft is committed by junkies looking for quick cash to get a quick fix and then on to the next victim. I am not saying that everyone will get targeted but lets be real. Everyone, especially unaware tourists, are a target. I would say tourists are more of a public target than an American as Americans are more alert because we are more aware of the tactics American criminals use. I would rate the safety in major cities as moderately high and urban areas low to moderate. I am no expert I am just speaking from personal opinion based on my knowledge of local and national crime statistics and news.
Safe but learn where to avoid.
You must hang out in the wrong places. WE have lived in the NY area and or visited for over 40 years and it is not as you described. No matter where you travel in the world there are good areas and bad. You need to be smart enough to ask where those areas are and stay out of the bad areas. I understand that California has some issues in the “sanctuary cities” with petty crime and homelessness . Also, bail reform seems to be increasing the use of drugs on the street because people won’t suffer consequences. Coincidentally, friends who have visited the once beautiful city of San Francisco say you can find needles on the street
Dangerous Urban Areas
PROTIP: It isn’t the immigrants committing the crimes, nor is it the people getting out of the world’s most crowded prison system because of bail reform. Your racism is factually not true. What is true is that American cities are extraordinarily dangerous compared to their counterparts in the rest of the developed world.
Illegal immigrants do increase crime a good bit and bail reform has made crime higher, facts are not racism. A bad area in an American city is dangerous at night but the rest of the country is not more dangerous than elsewhere in the developed world.
Get a grip
Where in the f… does the OP mention immigrants?
Agreed.
Completely agreed. There is a lot of crime going on everywhere, so stay safe out there
Small City America
(English not superior very sorry)
America great place for visit long time. Big cities noisy and smelly, small cities calm and inviting. I forgot card on bus stranger hand it to me. Good place.
Thank you.next time don’t forget your card
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 America safe really give me a break
lived here my whole life never had any crimes happen to me so give me a break about your uneducated response.
I’ve also lived there my entire life and I haven’t had any crimes happen to me, but I can think of literally hundreds of examples of crimes happening to friends, family and just locals and tourists visiting.
So idk how you can call him uneducated when you’re basing it strictly off your personal lack of American crimes.
I’d say cities in the US range from low to high, especially high in Albuquerque, Detroit, St. Louis, Baltimore, and Hartford.
I was born and lived more than 20 years in Mexico and I never had any crimes happen to me, BUT it doesn`t mean that I am not aware of what’s going on around. I have visited also many countries including several cities in the US and I can tell this Index is not very reliable.
As with any place it depends on where you go and the people there. There are shit people the world over. In America I have had cars broken into and stolen. I have been attacked more than once. I have even had guns drawn on me by people trying to rob me to be honest I just gave them what they wanted. In the United States of America my suggestion is to stay away from the inner-city no matter where you are. As long as you stay in good areas and are aware of your surroundings you will be very safe. PS when I lived in America I lived in the inner-city and this is what I learned from it.
It is safe to visit tho…
I would say it’s safe, I’ve lived here my entire life. There are bad things about the US for sure, but it’s relatively safe if you want to travel. Obviously there are areas you should avoid, like any country, but the major tourist areas aren’t really unsafe in my opinion. Beware of pickpocketing and scams in the tourist areas, but overall it’s not too bad. For California, I’d say try to visit Los Angeles, and go the the beaches there (like Malibu), Hollywood isn’t the nicest area, but if you’re interested you should go, San Diego is really nice as well. Hawaii is amazing of course and I think it’s one of the safest places you can go to (in my unprofessional opinion). New York City is nice, just be careful, but it’s a nice tourist place. Florida is alright if you go to Orlando and visit DisneyWorld or something, Floridians are a bit wacky though haha. I’d say those are all the “tourist”-like places in the US, but there are other nice places too. Hope this is helpful!
Thanks for Your Thoughts!
Great tips! Totally agree!
**** america
USA bad country and the only reason it is considered safe in this website is because this website is American. Like “Iraq isn’t safe terrorism” bro america is way worse when even the police does crimes
Lol thats absolutely right
AS an American I can assure you that the USA is safe. The people are kind hearted and welcoming. Its is pricey, so be prepared to spend at least 150 dollars per night for an average hotel.
Amazing, hard to see country! Think ‘Blind Man and the Elephant’!
Crazy commentary above! The USA is generally a very safe to travel, but it is hard to se much if, because of it’s size and lack of decent public transport! From Florida to Alaska and California to Maine…and then there is Texas! It is big and diverse! Frankly, it is Capitalism at it’s best and it’’s worst (see Texas)! It is a melting pot of cultures, also at it best and worst. Yet sadly only English is spoken here! Hard country to see on a budget and surely somewhat less safe at lower cost levels!
America Is Beautiful and Safe
Wonderful country with amazing people. Very safe for visitors with lots of fun things to do and beautiful places to see.
PEOPLE ALWAYS EXAGERATE WHEN IT COMES TO THE USA
I knew people were going to exagerate in the comments, the USA is not dangerous, but not so safe either. As an immigrant I’ve never felt safer, the USA has higher crime and safety issues than other developed countries. But only if you ask for it, don’t go into certain neighborhoods. I’ve lived in the “hood” and felt safer than I did in my country, maybe my perspective is different because I come from a 3rd world country, I have various European friends here and they don’t dislike living here. People that complain either watches too much news or just demonizes the USA for their own political beliefs. One thing I’ve noticed is the HUGE amount of drug addiction witch fuels crime.
American and a Woman with kids...
I am An American and a Woman and I have to say that as both I can not agree that it is safe even in tourist areas. With my kids and a female friend and her two kids someone attempted to mug us on the strip in Las Vegas…a common tourist place. Crime in a lot of tourist places unless you are talking things like the actual resort but outside the place there is crime. Museums, they are safe but many are in downtown areas that are not great and you will be robbed, have your car broken into and the such. Once in the place you are safe. Many outside places are safe like the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone Park.
LA? Nope
New York? Nope
Don’t be fooled by the nonsense. People love to take advantage of tourist and will do so.
Not as bad as made out to be but know your destinations.
Like I always tell my friends outside of America, because this country is so large, it pays to research the specific destinations you want to visit. Trying to rate the US as a whole really isn’t very informative.
I can’t help wondering if you’re referring to Graceland with your museum story!!! XD People from outside Memphis are nuts about wanting to visit the place. People born and raised in the city know better! That said, Graceland is probably one of the most extreme examples I can think of, of a place with high tourist draw but in a high-crime area. In a lot of other places it really isn’t as bad.
There are certain cities these days as an American that I wouldn’t want to visit. But there ARE still a lot of nice ones (Nashville comes to mind…I have family there and we’ve had plenty of good experiences going downtown for concerts). Even with those other cities though, as long as it isn’t a total leftist sh*thole, you’re probably going to be fine. And as you correctly pointed out, the natural landscapes of the US are outstanding. When I lived in San Antonio, I took a road trip from there to New Mexico and Arizona and the drive there and back was almost as awesome on its own merits as the actual destinations we visited. 🙂
I have mixed feelings about the USA, but it does have some amazing destinations
As a Canadian, (I am not going to address politics) I am going to try to not be to bias against the USA, but when you watch the news, you can see that it can be a pretty sketchy place sometimes, and it is definitely a risk to take.
However, with that being said there are lots of incredible places to visit, all over the country, and it is definitely a good place for a vacation.
yeah the news says the same about Canadians being all drugged out in the streets
Bull. We Americans are so below Canadian standards in health, crime and education. Don’t be salty. I’d much rather visit Canada
Anon, you know you’re free to leave right? If you love Canada so much then by all means emigrate there, you won’t be missed!
Dont Base off the news reports.
If you go to a small town like mine you will likely never run into any crime at all. If you travel to a larger city , it maybe different in different areas of the city. Around the main business centers are normally the safest. I would feel safe to walk across my town in any place at any time day or night.
Don’t trust the media: it’s perfectly safe.
The small towns and parks are perfectly safe to visit, and honestly I feel just as safe walking down the street in my hometown in NC at midnight as I do here in Japan, where I currently live. Plenty of us are those dreaded gun-owners you always hear about, and yet nothing tends to happen in our rural communities.
Most violent crime in the US occurs in very specific areas that most tourists don’t even know how to find. In general, my feeling of safety in the central area of most US cities has been just about the same as anywhere else in the developed world. Be smart about things and don’t fall for scams and you’ll probably be fine. Even in infamous New Orleans, I never felt threatened or in danger. A general rule of thumb many of us have discussed is that if you aren’t involved in crime, you’re unlikely to be a victim of it.
The mass shooting statistic is also kind of generalized; the majority of these involve a few people and typically occur in the aforementioned places that have gang warfare, meaning that many (but not all, of course) victims are already involved in those circumstances to start. I’ve done my own research on the subject, and if you discount gang warfare (don’t get me wrong, it’s a horrible problem that we need to address as a nation), the rate of terrorist attacks/mass murders is almost on par with many other developed countries. Even the murder rate drops substantially when you take these factors into account; what this essentially means is that you, as an ordinary person uninvolved in any major crime (no, smoking weed doesn’t count), have a negligibly low chance of being the victim of a crime.
I’m an avid world traveler, and every person I’ve met who has been to the US has only had positive things to say, explaining that the US really defied their expectations and was much more safe than the media had them believe. I think the same applies to lots of other places in the world too.
Or you can listen to the grammatically poor “AMERICA BAD!!!” reviews with a thousand exclamation points and no valid explanation as to why.
I agree. If you watch the news you would think the US is a war zone. That is because the media in the US is all about ratings to make more money selling commercials. Most gun deaths are either gang members killing other gang members or suicides. You just have to have some common sense when travelling to avoid seedy area just.lime everywhere else in the world.
Well said. I’m half American half French and have travelled the East Coast a decent amount and studied for a semester in California.
The US definitely has very “ghetto” areas but as you pointed out they’re generally not where tourist go. And even when going to these areas, if you’re not involved in local crime or walking around with a ton of valuables people will generally leave you alone.
I’ve been to poorer areas of New Orleans, Washington DC, Miami and Philadelphia and never ran into trouble personally, though I did witness a few violent altercations. It probably helped that we were in groups of 2-4 guys, I wouldn’t recommend these areas to women travelling alone.
But yeah the remaining 90% of the US are very safe. It’s a developed country with an efficient police force overall no matter what left leaning media might say. People, especially in smaller towns are very welcoming and generous. As a foreigner (well half, but my friends were all native French) and atheist at that, I was well received and had lots of interesting conversations when travelling the Deep South (supposed to be xenophobic and intolerant). If you’re polite and respectful, people will be friendly and curious.
A New Yorker’s Opinion
Pickpocketing and petty theft crimes do happen in New York. Watch your belongings in high tourist areas like Times Square. Avoid leaving personal items on restaurant tables because they can be stolen when you’re not looking. Take yellow or green metered NYC taxis or use share riding services like Uber. Do not hail a black cab because they are more likely to ripe you off. Don’t get suckered into buying counterfeit luxury items from Chinatown. Avoid the NYCHA public housing projects located throughout the city; especially when the sun goes down. These tend to be high crime areas. Do not stare at people on public transportation and mind your own business. New Yorkers are a friendly bunch. We will help anyone in need of assistance but please don’t get in our way when we have somewhere to go.
Diverse
I’ve lived in the us all my life, and it’s incredibly hard to make an average for this country. The northeast is drastically different from New Orleans, which is drastically different to the Great Lakes and so on. Overall there is absolutely no threat to coming here. As always be cautious and if something doesn’t feel right then leave, but I’ve been everywhere in the US and the rest of these people in the comments are just Americans who are bored and looked up there country. It’s a diverse place that is completely different wherever you go. The US is more like 10 different countries in 1.
Of course it’s safe
You obviously have never been outside highly developed countries if you seriously think the United States is unsafe to visit. The US is one of the most safe countries on earth to visit and live in. Use common sense and stay out of sketchy areas of major cities at night, and there will be no problems. I have been to every corner of the country and I have never felt in danger. Don’t let exaggerated reviews or the media scare you away, visit and enjoy this beautiful country!
Use common sense
America is built the rights of the people, and though there are those who dislike others simply because they are a different race is not a dramatic feature of America now days and does not have a role in tourism nor should the personal political opinions of Americans be expressed to scare anyone away from experiencing this great nation. Racisms does not have any real gravity to a visitor. Like anything if you look hard enough you will find something wrong with every single location on earth. do not sensationalize negativity about America its its manipulation and untrue. Yes there is internal civil tension regarding this topic but that does not include visitors from abroad.
If you must
If you are white and not involved in drugs it’s safe enough. By far the most racist country in the Western Hemisphere. Physically it can be beautiful but just doesn’t have that relaxed vibe to it. It’s a big world with better choices for a vacation
Oh please, the USA is the least racist country, give me a break.
If the USA is so racist, why do so many people from around the world come here and succeed here, they wouldn’t if it was racist. It’s the least racist country in the western hemisphere.
Not least racist but definetly not most racist
Yes, THE usa IS the least racist. No other country on the planet is as tolerant as the US when it comes to
immigration, free healthcare and schooling for illegal migrants and no other country has as much diversity in its’ leadership as the USA.
There are still many racists in the south that proudly raise the confederate flag. The people of the US are still super racist. I can name many countries that are less racist than southern USA.
Nonetheless, there are some racist people in the US who doesn’t care other races other than white.
Pick up some history books Sherlock and read what happened to the indigenous people who hear first and read about the people who built this country who were considered property and 3/5’s of a human. Read about what happened to them after they were freed and how the legacy continues to affect them. Are you really that Al damn stupid are you just faking because you need to uphold the lies you were raised with?
People need to understand the difference between what you see on American news stations and reality. The media profits off of people’s fear here, both sides do it, conservatives and liberals. It’s how they get people to watch their shows. If you watch the news, it may seem like there’s more crime here than other developed countries, and there usually is, because The U.S. is huge. More people=More crimes to report.
Your Mileage May Vary
Big country so varies widely. Occasional terrorist attacks of all verities are a sad reality and seemingly random. Large size means a large variety of natural disasters possible. Be aware of fire season and earthquakes in the west, tornado season in the Midwest, hurricane season in the south and east coast, winter in the north and northeast is not the most enjoyable and can cause airport delays.
Street crime is a thing and every state and city has areas you should avoid. On the other hand every state has “safe” neighborhoods but they will often cost a pretty penny.
Lots of people are armed. Avoid confrontations which can easily escalate out of control. Absolutely avoid drugs. The USA has a very competitive culture that sometimes seems very cold to foreigners and there is a general attitude of victim blaming if someone gets taken advantage of or ripped off. If you encounter someone who is aggressively nice or seems like they have an agenda they probably do.
We are Awesome
We Americans are proud to have tourists and people wanting to become citizens on a daily basis!
While mass shootings and other violent crimes happen; They are not all over like some people like to portray.
Where I am from, we have large amounts of Asian tourists and they are always telling our shop owners and fellow locals how safe and welcome they feel day or night.
The only truly unsafe places would be the ghettos and similar locations in bigger cities like Detroit or Los Angeles.
I’m a 13 Year Old Kid, Its Perfectly Safe Here don’t get me wrong crime is very very rare but it’s not place to be safe to be at in the night always stay home after 10 PM. I do feel safe in the U.S. There is a high risk of smoking.
THIS PERSON IS INCORRECT
Are you serious? so you are saying America is safe, for example, Algeria is being accused of having terrorist attacks which is a big lie because that was 8 years ago and the reason I brought up Algeria is that I have been to it and the people there let me stay in their houses and gave me all sorts of food for FREE and I got a lot of souvenirs and entered a lot of places for free too because how nice the people are in there.
The first night I was in LA some dude came up to me with a gun and a dog and mugged me and I was planning to go to another area but canceled because there was an ACTIVE SHOOTER IN IT and this is without addressing all of the crimes and kidnappings and gang members.
this review triggered this out of me.
Try to speak to citizens from the country to see how it really is.
Triggered that explains it right there
I wonder why im triggered
GREAT
Best country in the world by far, considering its population crime is low.
Go to Murderapolis
Minneapolis, North side = death
Unsafe.
Read the international statistics fir violent crime in developed countries. USA is NOT the best at all.
Pretty safe
i have rented cars in two states that had specific laws in place for rental cars not to be identified as rentals because too many tourists were being targeted.
However I have been many places in the states and rarely have I felt unsafe. Except that one time in Compton after the riots… THAT was a wrong turn…
Reality is that there are many factors to your safety when you travel. The more you blend in, the less of a target you will be. If you look like a target, you will be a target.
Dangerous. Avoid!!!
Do not travel to this dangerous country
Shoot you’re wrong Safetyfirst the United states is safe for us to travel. Shootings are uncommon in here
Do not travel to the country Safetyfirst is from. And stay away from the USA unless you want to buy the bridge I have to sell you. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Bunch of Crybabies
So many jealous haters in these comments. If the United States is so terrible, why are so many people desperate to immigrate here? No, we aren’t perfect. But what country is? I bet most of you haters actually live here and have the audacity to trash it.
I love this comment
I think it’s a great Country. I have been here all my life.
AGREE!
THANK YOU YENEA! I was thinking the same on all the “haters” of this Great US of A! After all-which FAMILY is PERFECT????
Honestly kinda sucks here /: would not recommend
People be shootin each other on the daily bro
The U.S. is a big Country! Lots of states. It will vary from city to city. Everyone knows there are BAD areas. In every Country. Do your research before traveling.Make sure to recheck when your actually ready to enter the State’s. For varied reasons. Example: COVID-19 now. There are homeless people. A lot of drugs. Many people live here. From across the world. I have felt uncomfortable in the States. But mostly a good place. Beautiful places. Some very bad ugly places. Travel all countries at your own risk!
Northwest, very safe
I have been all over the United States, the Pacific Northwest is really nice, I would avoid any large metro area, like L.A., New York, Chicago, Atlanta etc, especially places with a large black or hispanic population. These are crime ripe areas. The Northwest, Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana are beautiful places to visit. Very vast area, a car rental is a must. People are friendly. (Exception is Seattle). The Northwest is a great area of America for summer motorcycle trip.
forget Portland, bunch of violent communist idiots
I’m an American and considering all that is going on around here from Portland to Kenosha, I am absolutely amazed the United States still has a green status.
Alright, 2020 update!
As a person who is living in the USA, which has right now the most Covid-19 cases, I can tell you that the USA isn’t really safe for travel. There is right now civil unrest happening everywhere, a dictatorial president, and right wing guerrilla groups in the south. Please reconsider your choice, if you’ve travelled to the US multiple times, great, just take extreme precautions when going out. Only travel if necessary. My rating for right now: 35/100.
Oh please, it not “right wing guerrilla” groups in the South, it’s Antifa left wing radicals causing the problems.
Move along, we’re full.
Impossible to Generalize
I admire this website’s earnest effort to summarize tourist safety in the US, but it’s just impossible to generalize – it’s too big, too diverse, and too varied in the reason travelers are here. A person traveling to New York will have a totally different experience and risk profile than a traveler to Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon. Foreign exchange students to the midwest will be in a completely different environment that somebody wanting to live it up in South Beach.
It is okay if you are with a big group
I am an American and I would recommend foreigners to stay away from southern states, you might be a victim of a hate crime. Random gun shootings are real and can happen to anybody, stay away from Ghetto areas or places where you see a lot of homeless people. You should hired at least 2 security guys because we Americans love to commit crime man. It is true, and the thing I hate is we can’t do anything to prevent a crime from happening, we have to wait until the crime happens before catching the criminal. We know who is shady and gonna commit a crime, but we can’t do anything because we will get sued or end up on the news as a “monster.”
“Extra Life”-Your review is not only false but ridiculous. Random shootings are rare, most shootings are suicide or drug/gang related and in a bad area. Yes, American cities have bad areas but those are certainly avoidable. You do not need to hire security or go in a group, simply take common sense safety precautions such as staying out of a bad urban area and not walking in deserted urban areas at night and keeping your valuables secured, you know the same safety precautions as in any country.
Normal Precautions
How absolutely ridiculous to stay away from southern states due to hate crimes. These are some of the friendliest places in the US. Hate crimes are extremely rare and certainly not in tourist areas. Like any country, stay away from inner city areas, be careful at night in downtown and watch your valuables on public transit. I have traveled as a solo female all over the US and the world and have never had any issues at all. The national parks and other outdoorsy areas are all fabulous and extremely safe. Obviously, you have to be more careful in places like NY, Chicago and LA.
You’re caucasian correct.
Wow completely biased article coming from someone who was born and raised here
I give the United States three stars the reason why I gave it three stars is because yes relatively the United States when it comes to being safe compared to other countries yes it’s more safe but the crime in United States is very high. They cannot sit there and say that United States is relatively safe and the crimes are low when you have the police literally killing black and Hispanics and minorities out here .They cannot say that On top of that you have a lot of petty crimes you have a lot of kidnappings you have a lot of organized crimes such as human trafficking , you have kid napping actual kidnapping not just adults children kidnapping that are Being sold for sex you also have rapes drugs and the poor community is very high so this article is very biased but I can say compared to other countries United States is more organized in a sense that if you are in trouble you will get help immediately! Other countries if you are in trouble if you are injured They won’t come to you as fast as possible like the United States. As a woman of color who has been raised by Caribbean parents and Was born and grew up here I’ve had many friends family coworkers just people that I know neighbors they have had terrible things happen to them me per se I can’t say that I haven’t had anything bad happened to me that’s major but it was close to being bad so they can’t paint United States as such a wonderful place to travel to Over other countries!!
USA is perfectly fine
I lived in New York city and now I’m currently in Los Angeles. United States is safe just use common sense and be aware that’s for travel into any country. I have lived in LA five years and nothing has ever happened to me. The only time it was crazy was during the George Floyd riots. There is homeless that’s no lie but it’s not bad. People on here are dramatic or hate USA. Don’t listen to media.
The only time it was crazy? Quick question, what do you think lead up to that?
usa is still a little safe
USA is a safe place but there is mass shootings and gun crimes. USA is ranked no. 1 for the amount of people with guns. but you should be fine if you follow common sense and take precaution measures. also my family has been getting scammed so also watch out for that.
After 2021, change this once again.
The U.S. right now is electing a president, and whoever it is, it is almost certain that post-election day violence will follow, no matter who gets elected. If Trump gets elected, then there will be outrage from BLM protesters and other activists, and Trump-Supported right wing militias will probably start trying to wage war with them. If Biden gets elected, there could be an insurgency somewhere in the U.S. After 2020, the U.S’ safety rating would probably be lower yellow to upper red.
Sooo, that didn’t age very well did it ?
Well you called that wrong.
anonyoumus i always see u making comments
It's kinda racist..
i’m japanese and look like it.. ..karens advise their kids to stay away from me cause I’m chinese and probably have ”corona” .. really karen? =.= if i had corona i would’ve stayed in japan not go shopping.. i also notice old men stare at you when you show the slightest bit of skin!! o.O i can’t tell if their doing it cause their dissapointed in me or just.. are weird.. its an ok country i guess..their not very nice to me as they stand in a different lane when i come.. cause of course every asian person has corona.. but its okey =^.^= i get used to it.. it has many shops!! its so cool kind of expensive but yeah :3
Please, Japan most racist country on planet.
Are you seriously invalidating a Japanese persons racist experience here?
Hilarious
The only racists here are the Democrats who perpetuate racist stereotypes and classify people based on the color of their skin. Everyone with an ounce of common sense knows that the wu-flu is just as likely to be spread by someone who is Asian as it is to be by a white person.
And wu-flu is not racist, by the way. Chinese isn’t a race, and this entire pandemic is their fault. Thank them for governmental overreach that will inevitably bring about the end of this country.
Political charged bias and delusion
Dude I’m from Arkansas. Republicans are just as bad. I don’t know why think political parties will distinguish it. Conservative =/= Republican, Liberal =/= Democrat. lol
Terrible Country
Sh*t hole country Avoid at all costs!!
welcome!
u have to avoid places like memphis, cleveland, baltimore, detroit, huston, new orleans, baton rouge, birmingham, dayton, and little rock.
well america is not as safe as this article says, as an white american
Read Within Reason and Avoid Insanity
This is hilarious!
I’ve lived in and out the outskirts of Boston, Chelsea and the lower east side in New York City, Los Angeles , Austin Texas and Miami. I’m a professor so I seek to find new areas across the country. NYC , to me, has provided the most comfort and safety despite the density of people roaming around at any given time. Look at per PER CAP crime rates across the spectrum. Otherwise, expect to be misinformed.
Don’t get bamboozled—no matter day or night you can walk around the city with some common sense (where I think a lot of these comments are NOT coming from) and enjoy yourself. If you are concerned, contact the hotel or the concierge of the hotel with which you are staying.
If not, maybe try Iowa–we can shuck corn together!
Eh it’s ok
I live here but this isn’t right on lol
neutral, indifferent
There are numerous flaws, but the suburbs are probably the safest areas of America. The cities are very large, and the crime rate is higher. On the other hand, the smaller suburbs are safer. I have a friend who was in DC and they said that it is unsafe to walk in the street a night and that is true. I went to America and the monuments are fun to take pictures of, and they have some nice restaurants. It has some room to improve but overall 9/10 visit, would recommend.
DC Calling
DC native here. The streets of the District are unsafe in certain parts of the area at night and one hundred percent safe in others. On more than one occasion a tourist has asked if there are any actual residents living in DC itself or does everyone live in the two surrounding states of Maryland and Virginia? It has a thriving residential population. The city is rapidly gentrifying and housing prices are skyrocketing even in the southeastern quadrant, east of the Anacostia River. That section is probably not advisable to wonder around in at night but even there, certain parts are quiet residential streets however there is very little in the way of tourist attractions to see so no real reason to explore.
Scams? Yep! We got’em. The “gentlemen” pushing bicycles with flat tires and asking for money to get the sudden puncture fixed. Panhandlers at many a busy intersection especially in Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan but you’ll find them everywhere. Some have asked me for money “for a ticket home” at Union Station – the main railway station. Gas stations seem to attract more of the aggressive types who want to come up and pump your gas for a small fee. They often get offended when you refuse the offer but I’ve never been more than verbally abused for the rebuff (6’2” 200lbs) Your interactions may vary!
I once interrupted an almost mugging at an atm in Capitol Hill (near 3rd and Pennsylvania SE) at around 8:30pm. A young female tourist was obliviously counting a pile of $20 bills right there on the street without a care in the world for her surroundings. I could see the guy approaching and I simply walked up to her and said in an extremely loud voice “SO GLAD to see you again! I didn’t know you’d be down here tonight!” She had NO IDEA what kind of nut was talking to her and was more afraid of me than what was about to happen. Once she did realize she thanked me profusely and was on her way, a little wiser.
DC? Safe if you keep an eye out on your surroundings, MD and VA burbs, the same but you’ll have little to no problem here if you use common sense as a tourist. Metros are clean and efficient but hold on to those iPhones and handbags and don’t sit right near the doors where someone can grab them and jump out as the train is coming to a stop but even this doesn’t happen all the often and won’t happen to you if you are vigilant.
Its early 2021 We are patiently waiting for y’all tourists to come back soon!!
Pretty accurate
This is pretty accurate, except for Natural Disasters. I think it should be high, as I see them almost every time I go on a multiple state road trip (but that might be because I tend to like places with these types of weather)
Nemo
My nation gleefully wants to rip itself apart we have 10 years 20 tops before it ends.Any tourists should come now to see the sights before that happens. crime is rising so stay away from population areas and go see the natural beauty while it lasts.Like the national parks.P.S. Even if you are super wealthy that will not be enough to protect you in the cities rich people here get hurt like everyone else.
WHY IS USA SAFER THAN TAIWAN!! TAIWAN IS WAY SAFER THAN USA!!! KEEEEEPPP YOUR FACT REAL AND STOP LYING ABOUT THE SAFTEY RATE! ALL YOU WANT IS TOURIST MONEY!!
HOW COULD TERROST BE MEDIUM IT SHOULD BE HIGH!!! THERE HAD BEEN A ATTACK FOR THE CAPITOL!!!
Even medium is being generous
The 1/6 Capitol riot was a very serious incident. However, such incidents are far from being commonplace in the U.S., and the likelihood of any unknowing traveler in the U.S. finding themselves in the midst of something like that is EXCEEDINGLY LOW. For there to be a need to rate the terrorism risk as high, terror incidents would have to be far more commonplace, far more indiscriminate, and far more likely in any given area of the country. But that just isn’t the case here. The U.S. is a massively large country, with over 320 Million people in it. However, very very few of those people will ever in their entire lives be directly harmed by terrorism, whether foreign or domestic. For a short-term visitor to the U.S. to encounter terrorism while here, would be akin to the odds of winning a 9-figure sum from a lottery ticket. The bottom line is that it simply would make no sense at all to list the country as having a high risk of terrorism. There are other countries in the world which really DO have a high risk of terrorism, and there is absolutely no comparison between the situation in those places, and the situation here in the U.S.
Us ok just be careful.
Reality: I am 63 and lived in US my entire life. Today April 18,2021. I have lived in California the last 15 years. Current issues in US is hate crimes against Asians. Stupid idiots trying to blame them for Covid. San Francisco is currently not a place to visit. Since Covid, crime has increased. Many folks are leaving California. Some companies are returning to work so San Francisco is a tiny bit better but very dirty, homeless everywhere and many folks on the street that have mental health issues. Still some areas fairly safe if you are careful. Union Street and maybe fisherman‘s wharf but that’s pretty much it right now. Sacramento area pretty safe the old sacramental extremely safe. Los Angeles I haven’t visited for quite some time so I don’t know. I have family in Chicago where the suburbs are OK but the city of Chicago very dangerous. Safest during the day but once nighttime hits be very careful. Cities like to treat stay away. Cities like Oakland California definitely stay away unless it’s daytime by the lake. Las Vegas is having some issues on the strip but they have tripled up the cups so just be aware don’t go on any alleys stay on the main street and you’re gonna be fine so much but traffic you’ll be fine. Pickpocket are‘s, just watch your purse or your wallet me personally have never been pickpocketed but I’m very careful. If you rent a car, never leave anything in the car otherwise I guarantee someone will break in and steal it. If it’s in the truck they will still possibly have someone watching when you walk away the best into the trunk and take it. Especially Christmas time at the malls you go in shopping you buy stuff you come out to drop things off in the car put them in the trunk, I actually will move my car to the other side of the mall then go back in because you’re guaranteed someone’s probably watching for that shopper to go back in and then they hit your truck and steal it. Remember here in the US and most of the cities we have the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor. you will have a beautiful neighborhood very upscale but a few blocks away a very poor neighborhood and it doesn’t take much for them to walk on over bicycle over what ever, do their street crime then head back to their own neighborhood. We have extreme drug use in our cities and they’re looking for a quick fix and get money wherever they can. So the US right now if it were me and I want to go out and visit play tourist which I do sometimes I would not go to San Francisco right now but I will go to old Sacramento which is kind of a old cowboy town Because there’s so much police presence is extremely safe. Covid here in the US has taken it’s toll and businesses are just now starting to open up for most of the cities so yeah we really would love to have Taurus but I’m gonna say it straight hell it is be careful be aware I am probably don’t go running around at night time keep it during the day and stick to main streets main areas and you’ll be fine.
Good place to go
Been to 15 states as a tourist
Always was treated well and on 2 occasions people went out of their way to help me, once in Baltimore and once in phoenix. Love to travel in this nation a d will do so again as soon as it’s possible. Canadian neighbor
Truth
You can call me racist all you want, but as an American I can absolutely say the safest places are nicer (suburban) higher income white or Asian areas. Not all, but most black and hispanic areas are less safe to absolutely unsafe. Like never step foot there. Its a fact. Its a shame for the black and hispanic children who are raised there. Vast majority of mass shootings/gun crime is black on black gang related crimes. You can debate the reasons if you like, but its a fact. Stick with whites and asians and you’ll pretty much be untouched. Regardless of your own race. Sorry. Oh, and the South absolutely is more friendly. Southerners are the warmest friendliest people you’ll ever meet.
And I’m a Northerner. People from New York are obnoxious A-holes. And Boston isn’t so great either. Sorry to speak the truth.
This
The most accurate thing on here. No one’s ever willing to confront the fact that enabling Democrat policies have been the root cause of minority-caused crime. The moment we begin treating people equally, rather than by the color of their skin as though they somehow need help because they aren’t white, the sooner we can rid ourselves of the majority of crime here.
The south has way higher crime rates.. and its white infested. But okay! Look at the actual real collected data and the south is more dangerous than the north. Also there are WAY more white serial killers, lol.
Don’t buy into to negative press
You’ll be fine as long as you have an ounce of common sense. Do your research and stay out of bad areas. Your biggest inconvenience will be how annoyed you get at our self-centered and cynical population.
Safe
I live on the east coast it’s safe very safe lived here since I was a kid
Only Democrat run areas are dangerous
Urban areas like Portland, St. Louis, NY, LA and Chicago may be dangerous because of the thug culture accepted by Democrats. Other areas governed by Republicans are fine.
name a large population republican city? And make sure you post the crime numbers for Jacksonville, Oklahoma city, Miami, and fort worth.
I am sure you wont. so look around, find a seat and shut all of the entire effs up.
Safe as kittens
Yall crack me up 🤣
Safe
As someone who’s lived in Florida their entire life, it’s overall an amazing place. The only places I wouldn’t personally recommend travelling to are California and the NY area due to high crime rates and overall being dumb as rocks.
If you’re in a big city, travel in groups (3+) with at least one guy or stay indoors at night. If you can do that, you’re safe! I would recommend visiting California for all the parks there, but don’t stay in LA. That place scares me, even during the day 😬
Stay out of Democrat-run cities
Large cities in the United States are typically run by well-meaning but naive Democrats whose social welfare programs draw undesirables like minorities and illegal immigrants who commit disproportionate amounts of crime despite being a minority of the population. That isn’t to say that all of them are bad, however, the FBI crime statistics speak for themselves. Mostly, these people are suffering from continued pandering and handouts from racist people who insist they are only trying to help, causing them to resort to crime. Just look at the BLM and Antifa riots of 2020 to get an idea of what I’m talking about. Stick to cities with a population below 125,000 and you’ll be fine. Anything more and you can expect little to no help from police, due to rampant crime. If you *must* visit a major city, do so by plane, travel during the day, and only remain only in well-traveled areas. It’s a shame where this country is headed. God bless the USA and to Hell with woke morons.
Stay out of large cities and you're fine.
As of late 2021, the USA exists in two parallel realities. The first reality is found well outside of large cities in suburbs, exurbs, and rural areas; largely safe and clean, and good for anyone to visit. You won’t have a problem in that part of America unless you either set out looking for it or make it for yourself. The second reality is found exclusively in large cities and their urban metropolitan zones, where the quality of life is generally lower as conditions are far dirtier, louder, very poorly managed if at all, and extremely violent compared to other places; these areas are not fit for anyone for any purpose and should be avoided.
As there has been a lot of conjecture regarding risk of violence based on one’s race, the facts are reflected in crime statistics: Blacks are overwhelmingly victimized by other Blacks, and they’re civilians – not law enforcement. Hispanics, Asians, and Whites are also predominantly victimized by Blacks in urban metropolitan zones, especially in cities with current and historical “leadership” from the Democratic Party. Also all of these areas have extensive “gun-free zones” wherein local ordinances attempt to prohibit civilian gun possession – most assault, rape, and murder in the USA happens within these “gun-free zones”.
If you research the summer rioting of 2020 incited in many cities by BLM and related “social justice activist groups”, and tolerated by governments in those locales, you will find a long list of places that honestly do not offer any quality experiences to any visitors of any demographic. Avoid these areas if you have concerns for your physical safety as well as how your time will be spent.
If you want to quickly assess whether your destination is safe for you, check if your destination fits the following criteria:
• large city
• run by Democratic Party mayors & council
• features a large population of a race known to victimize your race
• features huge gun-free zones
• experienced BLM-centric rioting in 2020
You can find many parts of the USA that are still clean, properly managed, with lots of natural beauty and friendly residents who will not hesitate to assist you, socialize with you, and peacefully coexist with you — but you will find most of them in the places popular and “news” media tell you to avoid: red states and cities with historically Republican leadership, smaller cities and towns, and rural regions with lots of wilderness where virtually everyone is armed and better behaved than people in urban environs.
Feel free to dismiss all of the above as whatever variety of *ism your social justice sensibilities prefer and take your chances in whatever sprawling, filthy, crowded, boorish gross urban zone you wish, but do not purport that you weren’t warned.
Totally agree with you.
Agreed, mostly true and well said.
I am an American, but I’ve also lived out of the U.S. for extended periods of time. It’s very hard to put all of the U.S. into one box because it varies from place to place but I would definitely recommend not going places alone after dark in bigger cities and always being aware of your belongings and surroundings. I would also not recommend visiting Detroit as it is known for gang violence and lots of petty theft, but if you do go, be careful and be 100% aware of your surroundings.
Nice
The US got problem of being too sensitive with any issues, but not with general safety. If you are not black, you cannot say negative things about blacks. If you are not gun owner, then you cannot have a negative opinion about the gun safety. If you are a straight, then no way to have any opinion about gays or trans or queers. Even Hollywood cannot pass a year without making movies about jewish struggle or some black freedom activist kicks caucasian ass. They were trying to please their minorities, especially blacks, then slowly lost their grasp with the equality and truth. Other that that the US America is safe as it can be.
You think 3 movies (tops) a year for jewish and black people dealing with Actual history on this land is whats being done to please black folks? Please us how. Be specific
unsafe to visit
a Beautiful Country to visit but it still dangerous to visit they are robbers, killers
not safe country
safe
been to the us dozens of times. only felt unsafe stopping for gas in philly once. america is extremely safe country. but things have been getting worse in recent years
Not as safe as used to be
shame us has degraded so much in recent years
This is a false statement.
Just take literally 5 minutes to research violent crime rates in the US and you will see that this is not true. Violent crime in particular has fallen by anywhere from 49% (FBI) to 74% (DOJ) just since 1993. This sentiment which you are echoing and which is so prevalent these days is driven purely by media coverage (particularly conservative media sources) and has no basis in fact. Not trying to get political, but numbers are numbers and they disprove your assertion.
If oxymoron was a comment section...
Imagine stating that there is no racism and that America is a completely safe country only to read violent and racist comments by those who “proudly” say they are Americans. I just can’t make this up 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
You all drank the kool aid….then went back in for seconds.
Truly the only comment I’ve read that makes any sense. This thread is giving me second hand embarrassment at best & complete shame at worst. Americans defending this country meanwhile they ignore the ignorance and outright racism in their blatant words — that’s most of American. You should absolutely go visit different country!!!
NOT AS SAFE
Yes. If you are in there move to somewhere like Vermont or into the Canadian lands.
Small towns are great
Small towns are nice and safe for anyone. You will get what you give. If you are rude or try to commit crimes, you’ll be treated accordingly. If you avoid areas with a lot of minorities, you will be completely safe.
America / A beautiful land but be weary
Ok. If you visit America limit your time in big cities. You do not go into a park in a big city at night in America. Europeans cannot grasp this.
If you visit America got the the National parks in the Mid-West and Western parts of the country. You will not see these views anywhere else in the world and traveling through National Parks is relatively safe and you will have the a “real” American experience being on the open road seeing the landscape.
If you visit a big city, it’s best to have a friend from there to keep you out of trouble. New York, New Orleans, Chicago, etc, these types of cities require some mindfulness. San Francisco, Seattle, etc, have a huge homelessness problem.
Visiting America can be as safe as visiting Holland or as dangerous as Mogadishu. Plan your trip accordingly.
Do not trust the news.
everytime i trusted the horrible news i would think usa is the new iraq. But it is TOTALLY NOT an Iraq if you don’t trust the news. The Usa’s global peace index isnt as high as war torn countries, even though there are many other countries with more peace than USA. The USA , however, has many other risks such as hurricanes (especially in the south), droughts (especially in northwestern texas and california), flooding (especially in low lying areas), scorching heat, ice-cold winters (in alaska and the northcentral contiguous us), earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions (in the west), and gun violence.
Source: I'm a woman in USA
Women travelers and locals are not safe in USA. Never walk alone by yourself, even during the day. Stalking and kidnapping does happen and should be taken very seriously. Don’t ever let anyone, not even a child who says they need help, into your car or home if you are a woman in USA.
The USA is VERY dangerous in Cities, Very safe in Rural areas.
I am Born and Raised In the USA.. traveled abroad and most states.
This Review is Inaccurate in 2022.
The USA is very VERY dangerous in most large Cities and surrounding city suburban areas. FACT….
The USA is very VERY SAFE in most small towns and rural areas.
So, it all depends where you go. You will likely fly into one of our Major Cities.. so it’s best to rent a car and make a straight B-line out of that city.. and you will be fine.
If you come to the USA.. it’s wise to come to enjoy the small towns and scenic vistas, national parks. Just stay out of the Cities. Our cities our highly dangerous for for even indigenous people.. it’s certainly no place for Foreigners to hang out. Do NOT take the advice that only “certain” parts of a city are dangerous. Even if that was true, you wouldn’t know which part is good or bad and could easily stray into a dangerous part. The cities in the USA are actually MORE dangerous than many third world countries. There is a lot of Politically motivated propaganda telling you the cities are safe..that is a dangerous lie. You won’t just get mugged in our cities.. a good chance you will get shot and killed (no joke). Police have been downsized in most cities now while violent crime has skyrocketed.
You have been warned.
Yikes
W.o.w. as a foreigner thinking about travelling to the U.S. and reading the ultragious comments you bunch left here, I’d stirr clear from travelling to the U.S.. You sound like a bunch of horrible people. Hopefully your tourism facilities are good at pretending you’re nice…
Well…you are giving a one star rating to a place you’ve never been…soooo there’s that. Don’t let these politically motivated conversations sway you from visiting. The US has so much to offer, safety being number one despite what you read. We are a very diverse country and with that comes diverse opinions. At the end of the day, you will have a plethora of places to visit you’re sure to find at least one area you love.
My home country is extremely satisfying
My home country is about the safest you could get in north america. Everything is great here. Not perfect but great. There is rarely any chance of being victim to any major crime. So go ahead stay at one of the hotels if you want to. Feel lucky and go ahead.
America is very UNSAFE
As an american myself, this is so untrue, Women/POC/LGBTQ+ people can’t walk outside without having to hold something to protect them, SA is not uncommon and when people report it, they get scolded for what they were wearing, Shooting happen everywhere even in elementary schools, Police brutality is also a very huge issue we struggle with on a day to day basis, America is a very unsafe place for anyone who isn’t a straight, white, republican, cisgendered, christian, male, if you don’t fit all of the above but you still want to visit, PLEASE stay safe and hold pepper spray or a pocketknife with you at all times.
It’s fine.
This comment thread is pretty hilarious. As an American who frequently travels internationally, many of these comments are not helpful to travelers.
Travelers, as has been displayed here, Americans endlessly argue with each other over differing opinions. Many natives may not be well-traveled, but will weigh-in and muddy the waters. (General knowledge of grammar is also decreasing at an alarming rate.)
The site itself gave the best info. There are extremely safe areas and those that are sketchy. The idea that the big cities are unsafe is silly. Just keep notice of what’s around you, the mood of people you see or the amount of foot-traffic. Your hotel or uber/lyft drivers can give you info about areas to avoid. (If you get a weird answer, refer to the * below and ask someone else.) Public transport and ride share is plentiful in urban areas. If you’re going extremely rural or covering a lot of ground, rent a car.
Shootings most certainly do not happen on all the street corners, though the country needs to address the increase. You may randomly hear some gunshots in the cities at night. It is what it is. The likelihood that you’re the one being shot at is extremely low.
Most areas are full of cool people who will talk to you. Some cities are more outwardly conversational than others.
*Broad opinion statements about nearly anything, delivered in an over-dramatic/unhinged manner are usually politically charged and can be frequent depending on location. Stay out of that and steer clear of political clothing/decorations so you actually enjoy your trip. Haha.
Overall, you should be just fine. Stay aware, explore and enjoy your visit.
Free space
I have traveled throughout the US from Alaska to Key West, and East coast to West Coast both before, during, and after covid, more than half the time have traveled alone.
I, personally, have not encountered any major issues in my travels. Yes, some people can be rude at times but that can happen anywhere to anyone. In some major cities I have had instances of concern but have removed myself from those areas quickly and had no problems.
The US, as a whole is safe and friendly to visitors, we have beautiful areas to explore and a diverse population of unique people, great food, and interesting places.
The US is completely different depending on the area you visit, we have deserts, ocean, mountains, cities, suburbs, rural and completely empty areas. My friend in the UK calls it simply ‘space’. We have space to breathe, to roam…and unlike other places around the world, you can move around freely and not have to worry about the crazy kind of things that happen in other parts of the world. We are very lucky to move around the way we do without a care. It’s only that way because of the people who live here, who protect here, who love here.
Never mind politics for those who want to put that into play.
You can’t beat the art, the beauty, the space, the safety we all enjoy that apparently some people don’t understand or appreciate. Many parts of the world have the same beauty but you can’t go there because it’s so unpredictable, so unsafe or restricted. We don’t have that here. Appreciate what you have. Ungratefulness and entitlement is something some people here have because they don’t know how bad it could be.
Land of inequalities
Safe if you stay in rich areas.
Otherwise so many issues with violence in the US. Sad that Americans can’t even notice it …
Define “Rich”, because even in the USA those lines are blurred.
People of all economical backgrounds have been victims of gun-violence while minding their own business out in public at the malls, schools, churches, etc.
Depends where you live
In overall, USA is actually very safe to travel. Depends on where you travel to different cities. Some of other cities in America has massive shooting and homicide violence….. but traveling to all states wouldn’t be a problem, only for cities just be very cautious about crime veils please. Aye c’mon people with one star saying “USA is unsafe!” meaning you didn’t even been to America because a lot of American people are really friendly and a lot of them are innocent. I was born in America and travel to a lot of states and I was actually very stable. Sometimes there is problems with America but evidence happens everywhere and law enforcement will target people who kidnaps or criticizes innocents and place them in jail and then it will attach to our devices and news will pop up or look for safety in America. All states aren’t actually a high course of crimes but overall it is low but depending on which city you live or travel to. And yes, living Canada is way safer than America and America is way safer than Mexico. In case it doesn’t matter where you live, just pls be safe! Don’t do anything crazy!
It's as good as you let it be
I am a full American citizen, 32 years of age. I’ve lived here my whole life and will admit, yes, there is racism and anti-semitism in America. But if you learn to look the other way, choose safe communities, and ignore the naysayers, life in America can be amazing! There’s opportunity around every corner, and if you take it, life can take you amazing places. This is no exception for tourists. It’s called the land of opportunity for a reason! I would recommend traveling to areas such as New York City or Boston Massachusetts for a clean experience without much threat of racism or anti-semitism. However, if you look to see American culture, traveling to the South can be a little more risky but just as rewarding. I now reside in Fort Smith Arkansas and have loved every bit of experiencing the local culture! Definitely travel here, I promise you it’ll be worth it.
The USA is not a Safe Nation
Let this comment section be a small sample of the GREATEST example of the declining mental well-being of Americans as a whole.
Displaced/extreme racism, narcissisms, violence, lack of empathy, no health care, poor economical distribution, low quality education, and a whole lot of firearms, seem to be on a persistent rise here.
You could be at the mall, at a school function, a movie theater, a club, literally anywhere, minding your own life and be gunned down by an AR-15 owned by some random guy who decided to take his bad day out on the general public.
Politicians refuse to do anything about the mass-violence, and would rather benefit from the division, racial obsession’s, and fear of thy neighbor. DO NOT COME HERE.
The Divided States of America is not safe.
On the unsafe side
In my opinion, the U.S is not a country of interest and can be delayed unless you need to go for something.
I have lived here my whole life and looking at other countries, I would prefer to be in somewhere safe, like Nordic countries. Not saying the U.S is like Syria or Venezuela, but I just think the U.S isn’t very safe.
The U.S, though being rich, also means that it is ranks high in unwanted categories. For example, the U.S produces the most trash on earth, its also a good part in the emissions.
Over all, I would not recommend this country, but you still come.
Visit the Natural areas (National Parks, National Forests). America has some beautiful natural places to offer and provide much less drama than the cities. America has its turds, but most people you run into are very accommodating and helpful.
I’ve been hassled (approached by scammers) more in Europe than I have in the US and I have lived in 3 cities in the US. One of which is considered a high crime area. Never once did I see a gun pulled, but would hear them on my block every two weeks when I lived in a rough part of Kansas City. To the articles point, most violence is between people who know each other in rough areas.
When I lived in a small town in the country, I think there was only one gun crime in the 18 years that I lived there.
Random but average and probably a wet blanket
I live in the United States and i have yet to see one act of crime. However traffic jams do happen. It just depends on what state you’re in and what time it is. Anything in the U.S can possibly happen. It is not as safe as Japan or Iceland. In fact safety is the least of my worries. If you are an only child and live with someone you know you’ll be quite bored sitting at home all day maybe even suffer depression like i always do. It isn’t dangerous. It’s an alright country. I’ll say its about average in terms of safety but it isn’t as free as everyone says. In short i wouldn’t trust this rating even if my life depended on it.