Is Racine Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Racine, Wisconsin, is a Lake Michigan waterfront city just south of Milwaukee and less than 90 minutes north of Chicago.

Now, if that sounds familiar, it’s probably because Kenosha, Wisconsin, sounds a lot like the same.

While there are overlapping traits between the two, each one offers distinct experiences.

I smile at the nostalgia of Racine since it was part of my favorite movie, A League of Their Own.

However, the history here goes much deeper than the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

Indigenous tribes lived here from time immemorial before fur traders and then settlers moved in.

Racine city and county grew to be a place of agriculture, industry, and innovation.

In fact, if you’ve ever used a garbage disposal, you can thank a Racine architect.

As the home base for SC Johnson, more inventions are waiting to be revealed during your visit.

Racine also offers water access to the lake or the Root River, with stunning sunrises complemented by Midwest charm from the locals.

Warnings & Dangers in Racine

OVERALL RISK: LOW

There's a low risk in Racine, but closer to average than anything. Plus, you have plenty of safe and fun places to visit.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Racine’s public transit system, RYDE Racine, provides bus services throughout the city and connects to neighboring areas. It’s affordable and covers most key spots, including downtown, schools, and shopping centers. While not the fastest option, it’s a reliable way to get around for those without a car. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are also available.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Just two purse snatchings were reported in 2023, bringing a low risk. However, you shouldn't let your guard down because of that low rating. The police department offers safety tips on its website about how to protect your belongings while walking around.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Racine’s natural disaster risks fall into a medium risk due to the potential for something disruptive or dangerous to happen throughout the year. Severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding, especially near Lake Michigan, make up the warm weather risk. Winters can bring heavy snowfall and icy conditions.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

The robbery rate is nearly 40% lower than the national average with most involving businesses, not muggings. The risk is low.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

While vigilance is always recommended, there isn't anything about Racine that should make you concerned about terror attacks or other forms of terrorism. Follow the guidance of "See Something, Say Something."

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Check local police department and sheriff’s office social media sites for the latest scams. That will help keep the risk low. You can also review the FTC website for nationwide scam trends.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Nothing in the crime data suggests women are at a higher risk than men. Using personal safety standard steps will help keep the risk low.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

The U.S. has strict standards for tap water per the Safe Water Drinking Act. Communities are required to provide a Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) once a year by July 1. The 2023 report from Racine shows full compliance and no violations. However, I do want to draw your attention to the concerns about lead in the water that comes from the pipes, not the water utility. I'll go into that in more detail a little later on.

Safest Places to Visit in Racine

You can easily find information about places to visit on the Visit Racine County tourism site.

The city’s website includes a section for visitors with more hyperlocal options.

To learn more about downtown, visit racinedowntown.com.

Be sure to check upcoming events because more than 100 are held annually.

The Racine Art Museum (RAM) is a must-visit, known for its standout collection of contemporary crafts like ceramics, fiber art, and jewelry.

RAM’s Wustum Museum is also a local favorite, offering art classes and rotating exhibitions.

If you’re into history, the Racine Heritage Museum takes you through the city’s industrial roots and diverse community stories, with exhibits on local manufacturing and key historical figures.

For architecture enthusiasts, the SC Johnson Gallery:

At Home with Frank Lloyd Wright is a gem.

Located at the SC Johnson headquarters, it highlights Wright’s iconic designs and his impact on modern architecture.

Explore the exotic animals of the Racine Zoo.

If you need proof that Wisconsinites don’t let the harsh winters stop the fun, the zoo is open year-round.

Racine is home to two great beaches on the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Zoo Beach, located near the Racine Zoo, is a smaller and quieter spot, ideal for a more relaxed beach day.

It’s also a popular location for volleyball and has some great views of the lake.

The most popular is North Beach, a sandy stretch that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking.

One of the highlights here is walking to the end of North Pier and seeing stunning shots of the harbor.

South Pier is accessed on Christopher Columbus Parkway, with a scenic overlook at the tip.

Be sure to frame a photo with the Racine Breakwater Lighthouse in the background.

Wind Point Lighthouse is just 10 minutes north of Racine.

Summer visitors should check the schedule for open lighthouse days when climbing the tower is allowed.

Feel free to book a private tour as well.

Places to Avoid in Racine

One of the hardest parts about finding information about potentially dangerous neighborhoods in eastern Wisconsin is that it’s close to Chicago, a place known for high crime in certain areas.

I’ve talked to several people who live in Racine, and there’s a common theme of “Don’t go looking for trouble and mind your own business, and you’ll be fine.”

Since the police have enacted several new policies and high-tech gadgets for safety, the crime hot spots today could change by the time you get there.

That’s why we always recommend calling the police ahead of time and asking for the places to avoid.

However, anywhere on the lakefront and around downtown Racine are safe to visit day and night, provided you’re using smart personal safety steps.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Racine

So... How Safe Is Racine Really?

Racine’s violent crime rate in 2023 was at the national average.

However, crime data shows that just 8% of violent crimes happen against strangers, lowering the risk of a random act of violence.

By the summer of 2024, gun crimes had been cut in half from the previous year, a trend police hope continues.

Theft rates are half the national average, which plays into the “Midwest Nice” mentality that you’ll find in many places throughout the heartland.

The only number that really stood out was the four car thefts that happen each week, on average.

Since the FBI transitioned from Uniform Crime Reporting to the National Incident-Based Reporting System, it’s hard to get an apples-to-apples comparison before and after 2020.

However, several steps are being taken to reduce gun crimes, gang activity, and illegal drug crimes.

That includes license plate readers, gunshot-detecting sensors, and designated positions within the city to address crime hot spots.

While nothing in the crime data for Racine should make you think twice about visiting, it’s not one of the safest or most dangerous cities in Wisconsin.

Common sense and situational awareness will go a long way toward helping you enjoy your trip.

How Does Racine Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

All international visitors need either a visa defining the purpose of the trip (tourist, work, school, etc.) or a visa waiver. Start the process using the Visa Wizard module on the U.S. State Department website. You can also download the CBP One mobile app for help on the go. Also, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your trip, or you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Currency

Only the U.S. Dollar (USD) is accepted in the United States. International airports usually have a currency exchange desk on site, while regional airports won’t. Your home bank offers the lowest fees. For those using credit cards, check to see if there’s a foreign transaction fee. Credit cards, not debit cards, offer the best fraud protection.

Weather

Racine has a classic Midwest climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Winters can get pretty chilly, with temps often dipping below freezing, while summers offer pleasant beach days in Lake Michigan. Spring and fall bring more mild, comfortable weather with colorful seasonal changes.

Airports

Racine is conveniently located between two major airports. Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is about 30 minutes north, and Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is just over an hour south.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance protects the cost of baggage loss/theft, delays, cancelations, and emergency health issues. Rental car insurance should include roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage. Comprehensive insurance offers the best peace of mind.

Racine Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Wisconsin - Safety by City