The United States, with its vast territory and cultural diversity, offers a multitude of tourist destinations. However, safety varies considerably from region to region, and the situation has sometimes changed significantly in recent years.
If you've decided to go on vacation to the United States and safety is a key factor for you, the VEST PARIS editorial team can guide you through your choices with around fifteen destinations.
We relied primarily on official data from US federal institutions regarding crime in 2023 and 2024.
The safest states according to official figures
Maine
Located in the northeastern United States, Maine is often cited as one of the safest states in the country. In 2020, it recorded a crime rate of just 1,120 crimes per 100,000 residents, more than four times lower than the national average. Travelers can discover picturesque coastal landscapes, national parks like Acadia, and charming cities like Portland (not to be confused with Portland, Oregon).
Vermont
Just next to Maine, Vermont is also renowned for its safety. With its lush mountains, picturesque villages, and outdoor activities, it offers a peaceful getaway for tourists. The low crime rate makes it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers.
South Dakota
Located in the north of the country and known for Mount Rushmore and its vast plains, South Dakota also has one of the lowest crime rates in the country. Visitors can explore historic sites, national parks, and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
Montana
Montana is a sparsely populated state renowned for its wide open spaces, majestic mountains, and national parks like Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. It's a perfect destination for those seeking a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It is one of the safest states in the United States, with extremely low crime rates, especially in rural areas. The only major concern is nature-related hazards, such as bear encounters or unpredictable weather. Cities like Bozeman and Missoula are vibrant and attracting more tourists and new residents, leading to a slight increase in petty crime.
San Diego, a safe and pleasant coastal city
San Diego is often considered one of the best cities in the United States in terms of quality of life. Located in Southern California, it boasts an ideal year-round climate, a relaxed lifestyle, and great cultural diversity.
Safety in San Diego
San Diego is much safer than Los Angeles, with relatively low crime rates. Areas like La Jolla, Coronado, and Pacific Beach are particularly popular with tourists and expats.
However, certain areas like East San Diego and parts of Downtown can present risks of petty theft and assault, especially at night.
Mexico next door
If Mexico's reputation wasn't so bad, we'd suggest you take a trip there, but on the other side of the border is Tijuana... and we don't recommend going there if you don't want to find yourself in the middle of a war between cartels.
San Francisco, the security collapse
San Francisco is famous for its hills, the Golden Gate Bridge, and its eclectic neighborhoods. However, the city has recently faced an increase in crime, particularly robberies and burglaries.
Since the start of the pandemic, major American cities have faced a surge in homicides, and San Francisco has not been spared from this crime wave. The metropolis is also experiencing a sharp rise in petty crime, although local authorities have recently stepped up their efforts to combat these problems. In light of this, visitors should remain vigilant, especially in neighborhoods like the Tenderloin.
San Francisco is also facing a deadly fentanyl crisis. Fentanyl is wreaking havoc across the United States, particularly in California, where it is causing a major public health crisis. Local authorities have implemented measures to combat this "epidemic," but visitors should be aware of the associated risks and avoid areas where drug use is widespread.
New York, less and less reassuring
New York, our favorite destination, offers a multitude of attractions, from Broadway theaters to Central Park, shopping galore, unforgettable sensations etc.
While the city has felt completely safe for the past 30 years, it has recently experienced a resurgence in crime. A shooting on the New York City subway in April 2024 brought safety and crime issues back to the forefront.
The rise in crime, particularly murders, is part of a trend observed since the start of the pandemic. Tourists are therefore encouraged to exercise caution, especially in less crowded areas and late at night.
Los Angeles, between glamour and caution
Los Angeles is an iconic American city known for its beautiful beaches, film studios, and Californian lifestyle. Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Malibu attract millions of visitors each year in search of glamour and sunshine.
However, as in any major metropolis, safety is a concern. While neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Pasadena, and Manhattan Beach remain safe and popular with tourists, certain areas of Downtown LA, Skid Row, and South Central should be avoided, especially at night.
In 2024, crime in some parts of the city increased slightly, particularly thefts and burglaries, especially of cars and personal property.
Our safety tips : Never leave valuables visible in your car and avoid venturing alone into isolated neighborhoods after dark.
Austin, booming but security challenges
Austin, the capital of Texas, is a growing city, attracting many tourists and expats thanks to its music scene, gastronomy, and pleasant climate. It is also considered one of the safest cities in the United States, at least compared to other major American cities.
However, Austin's rapid growth comes with new challenges. Some neighborhoods, such as East Austin, have seen an increase in crime due to the rising cost of living and economic inequality. Burglaries and pickpocketing increased slightly in 2024, particularly in tourist areas.
Florida, between paradise and increased vigilance
Florida is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, with cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa attracting millions of visitors each year. Between its paradisiacal beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife, Florida seems like a dream destination.
However, security varies from city to city:
Miami saw a slight increase in burglaries and pickpocketing in 2024, particularly in neighborhoods like Downtown and some tourist areas. Orlando , on the other hand, remains relatively safe thanks to a heightened police presence around Disney and Universal Studios parks. Tampa and Naples are among the safest cities in the state.
Our safety tips : Beware of pickpockets in Miami Beach and avoid leaving valuables in your car.
Washington DC: Between Prestige and Growing Insecurity
Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is a fascinating city full of historical monuments, free museums, and government institutions. It's an ideal destination for history and politics buffs.
However, while areas around the National Mall and Georgetown are safe, other neighborhoods like Anacostia and parts of the Northeast saw an increase in crime in 2024. Robberies, assaults, and burglaries increased slightly, especially near subway stations at the end of the day.
Our safety advice : Stay vigilant on public transport and avoid certain areas with poor traffic at night.
Las Vegas and Nevada, an entertainment paradise with areas to avoid
Las Vegas, located in the middle of the Nevada desert, is world-renowned for its casinos, luxury hotels, and extravagant nightlife. Every year, millions of tourists flock here to try their luck and enjoy world-renowned shows.
Safety in Las Vegas
Overall, the Strip , where the majority of the hotel-casinos are located, is a highly policed and secure area thanks to a heavy police presence and ubiquitous video surveillance. However, pickpocketing, scams, and credit card fraud are common, especially in the touristy areas.
Neighborhoods to avoid include parts of Downtown outside of Fremont Street, as well as areas north of the city. It's also recommended to be vigilant on ride-hailing apps and avoid excessively displaying cash or valuables.
Beyond Vegas: Nevada
The rest of Nevada is much safer than Las Vegas. Rural areas and national parks, such as Death Valley or Red Rock Canyon , are safe and spectacular places to visit.
Reno, nicknamed "Little Las Vegas," is a quieter alternative, but it also has some problems with addiction and homelessness.
Boston, a historic city with enhanced security
Boston is one of the oldest and most iconic cities in the United States. With its rich history, prestigious universities like Harvard and MIT, and its pleasant East Coast setting, Boston attracts many tourists and international students.
Safety in Boston
Boston is one of the safest cities in the United States, with relatively low crime rates compared to other major metropolises. Central neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, Back Bay and Cambridge are particularly safe and well-maintained.
However, some areas like Dorchester, Roxbury and Mattapan experience higher crime rates, although the situation has improved significantly in recent years.
Our safety tips : Avoid neighborhoods farther from downtown at night, but Boston remains a safe city overall.
Chicago, the bad reputation
Chicago is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, world-renowned museums, and impressive architecture. However, some areas of the city experience high crime rates.
In 2023, Chicago saw a significant increase in violent crime, with 22,569 reported assaults. Vehicle thefts reached a 10-year high with 30,501 incidents.
Tourists are therefore advised to find out which areas to avoid and take precautions when traveling.
Final ranking of destinations based on safety
Our safest destinations:
- Vermont and Montana – Low crime, but beware of natural hazards.
- Boston, Maine, and South Dakota – Metropolitan and Secure States.
- San Diego – Very pleasant to live in with low crime.
- Austin, Texas – A booming city, but still relatively safe.
Our moderately safe destinations:
- Washington DC – Safe historic areas, but caution in some neighborhoods.
- Los Angeles – Tourist destination, but localized crime.
- Florida (Miami, Orlando, Tampa) – Safe in tourist areas, but be careful in Miami.
- Las Vegas – Safe on the Strip, but risk of theft and scams.
Our least safe destinations in 2025:
- Chicago – Lots of cultural vibrancy, but crime on the rise.
- San Francisco – Increase in thefts and security crisis.
- New York – Crime has increased sharply in recent years.