Is Sheboygan Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is nicknamed the Malibu of the Midwest thanks to its prime location on the western edge of Lake Michigan.

Indigenous people signed the Treaty of Washington in 1831, which gave the land to the United States.

A flood of German immigrants followed before more nationalities rounded out the population of the growing lakefront city.

It’s a heritage that still hangs in the air today.

Another nickname for Sheboygan is the Bratwurst Capital of the World, an honor that was won in 1970 after competing with Bucyrus, Ohio.

Sheboygan’s versatility draws nearly two million visitors a year.

Here, you can surf, splurge on a fancy meal, chill on the beach, explore a fairytale garden, search for a shipwreck, or shop for unique knick-knacks.

Plus, the region also gives you easy access to the company town of Kohler, with its popular design center, and the smaller town of Sheboygan Falls.

The city’s position between Milwaukee and Green Bay makes an excellent excuse for a day trip or weekend getaway when visiting one of the larger cities.

Warnings & Dangers in Sheboygan

OVERALL RISK: LOW

There's a low risk in Sheboygan, especially if you are conscious of water and beach safety as much as personal safety. Plus, there are so many things to do here, from outdoor adrenaline activities to indoor exploration.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Shoreline Metro is the public transportation system in Sheboygan. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are also available. The risk is low, and the area from downtown to the beaches and waterfront is very walkable.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Yet another Wisconsin city without any purse snatchings or pickpockets reported in 2023. However, with the number of shoplifting reports, it's wise to remember that people capable of theft will be around you. Use standard precautions to keep the risk low.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Sheboygan faces occasional risks from severe thunderstorms, high winds, and winter storms. The city’s proximity to Lake Michigan reduces tornado risk but increases the chance of coastal flooding and erosion. Winter brings heavy snowfall and freezing conditions at times. Heavy surf and dangerous water conditions can catch newcomers off guard. Treat it as a medium risk.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

This is an area where context matters. I can tell you that half the robberies in 2023 were muggings, and 60 percent between 2021 and 2023 fell into that same category. However, there are about six robberies a year in the city, leaving just about three muggings a year. The risk is low but never low enough to become complacent.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

This is another low risk, as the city has no hard targets and isn't a focal point of repeated threats. However, your keen eye can help report suspicious activity.

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. Check the Fraud Prevention section of the police department's website for common scams and real-life examples of fraud.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

This is another low risk, as most crimes involving women are domestic. You still want to use basic personal safety steps, but you don't need to worry about this being a dangerous city for women.

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 latest report from Sheboygan shows full compliance and no violations. However, I do want to direct you to the Common Questions on the Sheboygan Water Utility website. Apparently, there are some taste and color issues with the water that warrant explanation.

Safest Places to Visit in Sheboygan

Visit Sheboygan is the name of the tourism website.

A visitor’s guide is available, but you must give your name, street address, and email address to access it.

Harbor Centre is the Sheboygan central district, which covers the waterfront and downtown.

It is here where the Sheboygan River connects with Lake Michigan.

The north side of the river is home to the marina, where boats and yachts are docked, and adjacent to it is Deland Park, a popular spot with a beach, playgrounds, and scenic views.

The south side of the river houses the Harbor Centre Marina and features the South Pier District with restaurants, shops, and walking paths.

A pedestrian bridge connects both areas.

On the waterfront, you’ll find vendors who can assist with surfing, fishing, diving, and boating.

Several shipwreck historical markers are also found in this area.

Head away from the lake to visit Sheboygan Water Park, which is also home to Quarry Beach.

This is a much safer swimming environment with an inflatable playground.

Kayak rentals are also available.

Sheboygan offers several museums that highlight local culture, history, and art.

The John Michael Kohler Arts Center is known for its contemporary art exhibits and stunning artist-designed bathrooms.

The Sheboygan County Historical Museum showcases local history, while the Above & Beyond Children’s Museum provides interactive, hands-on learning experiences for kids.

The Acuity Flag in Sheboygan is the “largest symbol of freedom” in the country, standing 14 stories high – that’s 10 stories taller than the Statue of Liberty.

A memorial to war veterans is at the bottom.

Bookworm Gardens transcends the typical collection of flowers and transports visitors to a magical fairytale land.

Displays tell the stories of favorite children’s books.

The gardens are open from May through October.

Places to Avoid in Sheboygan

With no bad parts of town or dangerous neighborhoods, the biggest risks in Sheboygan come from Lake Michigan.

You don’t need to avoid the waterfront, but you do need to respect it. Look into rip-ride warnings, health advisories, wave forecasts, and safety guidance for the season of your visit.

One important note is to avoid swimming anywhere near the pier.

That’s where a lot of unexpected currents can cause hazards.

In 2016, two men were knocked off the pier by large waves and didn’t survive.

“Whenever you go out on a pier on Lake Michigan, if there are waves that are making that pier wet, you should avoid it,” Sheboygan Mayor Mike Vandersteen said at the time.

Plus, the piers and breakwater here are not elevated or railed, making it much easier to accidentally slip and fall.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Sheboygan

So... How Safe Is Sheboygan Really?

Before I get into the crime data, it’s important to note that crime rates are determined by the city’s population versus the number of crimes.

Then, that information is figured out to be “per 100,000” in an attempt for equal transparency in cities large and small.

What that data won’t include is the two million people who visit Sheboygan annually.

Any crime rate would be exponentially lowered if those tourists were included.

In 2023, Sheboygan saw 173 violent crimes.

That’s a rate just below the national average.

In addition, just 13% of violent crime victims were unknown to their assailant.

Shoplifting is a problem in Sheboygan, but that’s pretty common across Wisconsin.

Even before you figure in the two million visitors, the theft rate here is still 14% lower than the national average.

In addition, nearby Sheboygan Falls is ranked as one of the safest cities in the state.

How Does Sheboygan 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

Sheboygan experiences varied weather, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The lake effect from Lake Michigan moderates temperatures, keeping summers cooler and winters a bit warmer than inland. Surfing is best in fall and spring, with waves generated by strong winds. Sheboygan sees about 45 inches of annual snowfall.

Airports

Sheboygan doesn't have a commercial airport, but you can get to Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport in about an hour and Green Bay's Austin Straubel International Airport, roughly 75 minutes north.

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. If you're going to be doing risky activities like surfing, you might want to consider buying some adventure insurance.

Sheboygan Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Wisconsin - Safety by City