Is Tampa Safe? Everything To Know Before Visiting In 2024!

Tampa draws in a lot of visitors with its fun activities and access to beautiful white-sand beaches, and over 24 million tourists visit each year.  One of the top things that people may ask themselves when planning a visit to this Florida city is, is Tampa safe?

Safety is a huge part of traveling, and it’s important to know whether or not you’ll be safe visiting a destination.

Fortunately, Tampa has a relatively low crime rate, so you can plan your Florida vacation with less worry about becoming a victim of crime.

In this post, I’ll let you in on everything you need to know about safety in Tampa, and how safe of a destination it is for families, tourists, solo travelers, and more.

Is Tampa Safe For Visitors?

Millions of visitors flock to Tampa on Florida’s west coast each year for its fantastic beaches, warm weather, and fun attractions.

While there of course is crime in any big city, Tampa is safe with a low crime rate.

According to Neighborhood Scout, Tampa’s crime data rate is 21 per 1,000 residents, which is just slightly higher than the United States average.

The violent crime rate is only 5 per 1,000 residents, so it’s very unlikely to experience major crimes.

With so many tourists, you may experience small crimes like theft or pickpocketing, so be sure to keep your valuables close.

Another safety concern to think about when visiting Tampa is natural disasters.

Florida is prone to experiencing devastating hurricanes, which most often happen between the months of June and November. 

The heat and beating sun rays can be another natural danger of Florida, as summer can bring unbearable heat waves.

Is Tampa Safe For Families?

Yes, Tampa is definitely a safe vacation destination for families.

In fact, tons of tourists each year visit Tampa for their family vacations, thanks to the area’s fun attractions.

From nearby Clearwater Beach to the Clearwater Aquarium and the Busch Gardens amusement park, families have a lot of fun here.

When traveling with kids, be sure to book accommodations in safer neighborhoods and avoid going out at night.

But all in all, Tampa is safe for families.

Is Tampa Safe For Solo Travelers?

Of course, there is always a risk when traveling solo, but Tampa is a great, safe place for solo travelers. 

There is plenty to do when alone such as relaxing on the beach and visiting the many restaurants in the city.

When you’re alone, you should take extra safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, staying in safe and secure accommodations, and avoiding going out at night when possible.

Is Tampa Safe At Night?

When you think of if Tampa is safe, you may wonder about nighttime.

Any big city becomes more dangerous at night, and Tampa is no different.

Visiting Tampa at nighttime is riskier than during the daytime, but it can still be done safely by taking a few extra precautions and going to the safest neighborhoods in the Tampa area.

Stick to well-traveled and well-lit areas, don’t walk alone, and be extra aware of your surroundings to stay safe in Tampa at night.

And of course, if you feel that something is off, leave the area.

Is Tampa Safe For Tourists?

Tampa is a very popular tourist destination in Florida, thanks to its beautiful beaches and popular indoor and outdoor activities, but you may wonder, is Tampa safe for tourists?

While the city’s crime rate is higher than the national average, it is still most definitely a safe and one of the best places for tourists to visit.

Because most Tampa crime is confined to certain neighborhoods, it’s pretty easy for tourists to avoid those neighborhoods and stay safe.

Sticking to well-traveled and well-lit areas that are popular spot for travelers is one of the best ways to stay safe.

What Part Of Tampa Is The Riskiest Or Most Dangerous?

Downtown Tampa

Downtown Tampa has consistently been rated as one of the most dangerous parts and worst neighborhoods of Tampa.

With more and more tourists visiting Downtown, it continues to get higher on the list of dangerous areas.

There are some great aspects to this part of town, so if you want to visit, do it during the day.

Crime rates in this part of the city are much higher than in other regions, and they get even higher after dark.

Ybor City

While Ybor City has become well-known for its nightlife and historical features, it’s on the more dangerous side of Tampa.

Ybor City consists of Historic Ybor and East Ybor, and both have their risks.

Both areas in this Tampa neighborhood have a much higher crime rate than the national average, for both property and violent crimes.

In fact, according to Area Vibes, violent crimes are 285% higher than the national average.

Drew Park

The Drew Park neighborhood is located in northwest Tampa and has high unemployment rates, and crime rates, and it is more dangerous than other areas in the city.

It has one of the highest crime rates compared to Tampa’s average, sitting over 400% higher than Tampa’s crime rate.

What Part Of Tampa Is The Safest?

Harbour Island

This beautiful island is found within the channels of the Hillsborough River and offers beautiful views of the city of Tampa.

Downtown Tampa and the Channelside are found just across a bridge, and you’re within a short distance of top attractions.

It’s a residential and the best neighborhood and is safer for that reason.

Channel District

The Channel District is located right next to Downtown Tampa, giving you easy access to some of the city’s best bars and entertainment.

You’ll have beautiful waterfront views of the Ybor Channel of Hillsborough County and the Tampa RiverWalk to wander along.

It’s a convenient and great place to visit, being so close to Downtown, but without the noise and danger of downtown itself.

Seminole Heights

Located in northern Tampa, Seminole Heights has become a trendy part of the city, with many restaurants, bars, hotels, and entertainment that stand out.

As one of the safest places in Tampa, you’ll find lots of street art, the Tampa Zoo, and more. It is more residential, but that’s part of what makes it feel so safe.

Ballast Point

Found on a peninsula of the Tampa Bay area, Ballast Point is a beautiful residential area of Tampa with some larger big box stores. 

You’ll still have easy access to the other, local places in Tampa, like restaurants and shops, but staying and visiting here gets you out of the busyness of those locations. 

Is Tampa’s Crime Rate High?

According to Tampa Police Department, Tampa.Gov, when compared to several large cities with similar populations, Tampa is one of the safest.

In fact, it was the 2nd safest city on this list when put up against cities such as Buffalo, NY, Cincinnati, OH, Cleveland, OH, New Orleans, LA, Minneapolis, MN, and others. 

Tampa’s crime rate is 21.26 per 1,000 residents who will become a victim of either property or violent crime, with property crime rate being more likely higher.

As for Florida crime rates, Tampa sits just below the state average of 21.38 per 1,000 people. 

While Tampa does have a slightly higher crime rate than the national average, it is still considered a pretty safe city.

Is Tampa Safer Than NYC?

NYC’s crime rate is 24.83 crimes per 1,000, while Tampa’s is just over 21 per 1,000.

You’re slightly more likely to become a victim of violent crime in Tampa than in NYC and less likely to see property crime in Tampa.

Either way, both cities have safe and dangerous neighborhoods, and it’s possible to visit both and stay safe.

Is Tampa Safer Than Orlando?

With Tampa’s crime rate being around 21 out of 1,000, and Orlando’s being around 44 per 1,000 residents, we can safely say that Tampa is safer than Orlando.

Similar to Tampa, property crimes are more common in Orlando than violent crimes.

Is Tampa Safer Than Miami?

Miami has a fairly high crime rate, although still lower than Orlando’s. But you may wonder is Tampa safer than Miami?

Miami’s crime rate is around 35 per 1,000 residents, which is much higher than the national average.

So if you’re concerned about safety on your visit, Tampa is a perfect place to visit over Miami.

Tampa Safety Tips

Using the following safety tips will help keep you and your family safe during a visit to Tampa:

1. Always be aware of your surroundings.  This means avoiding being on your phone when you’re walking, knowing where other people are around you, and knowing what neighborhoods you’re in.

2. Avoid walking at night, especially if you’re alone.  Stick to well-lit, popular areas if you must go out.

3. Stick with a group of people that you know and trust.

4. Know when it’s hurricane season, swim where there are lifeguards, watch for warnings about sharks or jellyfish, and use caution when it comes to the ocean.

5. Leave behind valuable or flashy items to avoid making yourself a target.

6. Let a trusted family member or friend know where you’ll be at all times, especially if you’re alone.

1. Holiday Inn Express Inn & Suites – Tampa East – Ybor City, an IHG Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10     📌 Location: 2520 North 50th Street Tampa    Check Rates Here

The Holiday Inn Express Inn & Suites – Tampa East – Ybor City is an amazing hotel located near the Port of Tampa.

This hotel offers rooms equipped with microwave, fridge, coffee machine, and a private bath and shower.

It also has a variety of room options available for couples or groups.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the outdoor pool and the complimentary breakfast during your stay.

2. Perfect Getaway Rentals LLC

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10     📌 Location: 2409 East 2nd Avenue 305, Tampa    Check Rates Here

For a modern place with the comfort of a home, the Perfect Getaway Rentals LLC is your best choice.

This apartment in Tampa features a 1 bedroom, a bathroom, a television with streaming services, and a balcony with pool views.

Guests can also enjoy swimming in the pool or lift some weights at the gym.

Wrap-Up: Is Tampa Safe?

If you’re visiting west-central Florida, you may have one question on your mind; is Tampa safe?

From natural disasters like hurricanes to violent and property crime, considering your safety when traveling to Florida is very important.

Overall, Tampa is a safe city to visit with lots of activities for everyone, from families to solo travelers.

As long as you stick to safer neighborhoods, are aware of your surroundings, and trust your gut, Tampa is safe and can be a great city to visit.