How Safe Is Phoenix for Travel? (2020 Updated) ⋆ Travel Safe

Safety Index:

United States : Safety by City

Phoenix has many titles: it is the capital of the state of Arizona, the most populous city in the American Southwest and the sixth-largest city in the United States.

Ever since 1871, it was slowly growing into the region’s primary political, cultural, economic, and transportation center that it is today.

One of the best things about Phoenix is the thriving arts community and overall support of its many museums and theaters.

Of course, the city isn’t perfect: it has its challenges.

For example, some neighborhoods do not have sidewalks or walkable areas.

But all the same, overall, Phoenix is a great city if you can handle the weather.

Warnings & Dangers in Phoenix

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Even though it's a beloved tourist place, Phoenix is a major American city and as such does have its share of violent crime.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

As for transport, it also has many risks. Red-light running is more common in Phoenix than any other city in the country. Also common are speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving. The moment you see the green light, double-check for someone entering the intersection from another direction.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpockets do exist in Phoenix, but violent crime is more common here than the petty crime. Phoenix also has one of the highest car theft rates in the country, with a car stolen every 7 minutes.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Phoenix is susceptible to several natural disasters, but the most prominent ones are the excessive heat, and, as a result, wildfires. Occasionally happening in Phoenix are the floods and tornadoes.

MUGGING RISK : HIGH

The risk of violent crime is high in the city of Phoenix. There are muggings, assaults, thefts, rapes, and similar incidents. Just ask around about dangerous areas and then avoid them by all means.

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

Excluding isolated mass shootings, Phoenix hasn't been the target of any terrorist attacks recently, but the attacks shouldn't be ruled out. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK : LOW

There aren't many scams in Phoenix. Still, be wary of people trying to distract you to steal from you and of people overcharging you for various services. We advise you to be extremely careful when handling money and around ATMs.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Phoenix is somewhat safe for female solo travelers but it's advised they don't walk alone. There are no issues that would endanger females specifically but general caution is advised. Following basic precaution measures should minimize the chances of anything going wrong.

So... How Safe Is Phoenix Really?

Phoenix can’t be considered a safe city. It has its safe areas and dangerous areas, but the dangerous ones outweigh the safe ones.

Arizona is number one, nationwide in identity theft and adult kidnappings.

Both fraud and violent crime are big problems in the entire state, and this applies to Phoenix too.

Also, while it is a border state with very strict drug laws, at the same time, it has very permissive gun laws so do be careful – you never know who might be carrying a gun.

Some parts of the city should be avoided at night, like Maryvale, a commercial/residential district on the west side of the city which has a rough reputation.

The people of Phoenix aren’t good drivers: speeding is common.

Try to keep your cool if you’re ever confronted with any type of unpleasant situation and don’t allow it to escalate: just remember the part about the permissive gun laws.

There are also many beggars and homeless people; there are a significant transient and homeless population and as in any community, one needs to take standard precautions at night.

However, a great deal of the street people seem to be mentally unbalanced, so they are not likely a threat to anyone.

Useful Information

Visas - The US is famous for its harsh policy for acquiring a tourist, let alone a resident visa. The US embassies usually ask for interviews before granting tourist visas, and tourists usually have to pay up to 160 USD to get a visa. If you are not sure about your visa status, contact your local US embassy for further information.
Currency - The United States dollar is the official currency in Phoenix. Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, and ATMs are widely available.
Weather - Phoenix has an arid climate characterized by long and very hot (usually unbearable) summers and mild winters. An interesting fact is that it has the highest average temperature of any metropolitan area in America.
Airports - Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the main and the busiest air gateway to Arizona. It is located in East Phoenix some 5 km from downtown.
Travel Insurance - Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Phoenix, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

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