Is It Safe to Travel to Columbus, OH? (2023)
Is It Safe To Travel To Columbus, Ohio?
Columbus, Ohio is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer visitors. But is it safe to travel there? In this article, we’ll take a look at the crime statistics in Columbus, as well as some of the safety precautions you can take when visiting the city.
We’ll also provide some tips on how to stay safe while exploring Columbus’s many attractions, including its museums, parks, and restaurants.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the safety risks in Columbus and how to protect yourself while you’re there.
Is It Safe To Travel To Columbus Ohio?
| Criteria | Rating | Explanation |
|—|—|—|
| Overall Safety | High | Columbus is a very safe city with a low crime rate. |
| Personal Safety | High | Residents and visitors are generally safe walking around the city at all times of day and night. |
| Safety for Women | High | Columbus is a very safe city for women, with a low incidence of sexual assault and other crimes against women. |
Columbus, Ohio is a major city in the Midwest with a population of over 850,000 people. It is the capital of Ohio and is home to a number of colleges and universities, as well as businesses and corporations. Columbus is also a popular tourist destination, with attractions such as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden, and the Ohio State University campus.
As with any major city, there is some crime in Columbus. However, the overall crime rate is relatively low compared to other cities of similar size. In fact, Columbus was ranked as the 11th safest city in the United States by the FBI in 2020.
Crime Rates in Columbus, Ohio
The violent crime rate in Columbus is 4.4 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the national average of 4.9 per 1,000 residents. The property crime rate in Columbus is 17.6 per 1,000 residents, which is also lower than the national average of 22.7 per 1,000 residents.
The most common violent crimes in Columbus are robbery, aggravated assault, and rape. The most common property crimes are theft, burglary, and car theft.
Comparison to Other Cities
Columbus’s crime rates are comparable to other major cities in the Midwest. For example, the violent crime rate in Columbus is lower than the violent crime rates in Chicago (13.4 per 1,000 residents), Detroit (10.6 per 1,000 residents), and Indianapolis (11.7 per 1,000 residents). The property crime rate in Columbus is also lower than the property crime rates in Chicago (26.0 per 1,000 residents), Detroit (27.3 per 1,000 residents), and Indianapolis (22.4 per 1,000 residents).
Safety Tips for Travelers
Despite Columbus’s relatively low crime rates, there are still some things that travelers should keep in mind to stay safe. These tips include:
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.
- Be careful in public transportation.
- Keep your valuables safe.
- If you are ever in danger, call 911 immediately.
Overall, Columbus is a safe city to visit. However, travelers should still take some precautions to stay safe. By following the tips above, you can enjoy your trip to Columbus without any worries.
Additional Resources
- [Columbus Police Department](https://www.columbuspolice.org/)
- [Franklin County Sheriff’s Office](https://www.franklincountyohio.gov/sheriff/)
- [Ohio Department of Public Safety](https://www.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odps/safety/crime-statistics/crime-statistics)
Is It Safe To Travel To Columbus Ohio?
Columbus, Ohio is a safe city to visit. The crime rate is relatively low, and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when traveling to Columbus, Ohio.
- Be aware of your surroundings. This is a good rule of thumb for any city, but it is especially important in Columbus. The city has a high rate of petty theft, so it is important to keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Don’t leave valuables in your car. This is another common sense tip, but it is worth repeating. If you leave valuables in your car, they are more likely to be stolen. It is best to leave your valuables at home or in your hotel safe.
- Be careful when using public transportation. Public transportation in Columbus is generally safe, but there have been reports of assaults and robberies. It is best to be aware of your surroundings and to travel during daylight hours.
- Use common sense. This is the most important tip of all. If you use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, you will be safe in Columbus.
Resources for Travelers
There are a number of resources available to travelers to Columbus, Ohio. These resources can help you stay safe and informed while you are visiting the city.
- Police department: The Columbus Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency in the city. The department has a website and a 24-hour dispatch center. You can contact the police department by calling 614-645-4545.
- Tourist bureau: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau is a non-profit organization that promotes tourism in the city. The bureau has a website and a visitor center. You can contact the tourist bureau by calling 614-463-3804 or visiting their website at www.columbuscvb.com.
- Safety hotlines: There are a number of safety hotlines available to travelers in Columbus. These hotlines can provide you with information on crime prevention, safety tips, and emergency assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Columbus safe for tourists?
Yes, Columbus is safe for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when traveling to Columbus, Ohio.
- What are the most dangerous areas of Columbus?
The most dangerous areas of Columbus are generally located in the north and south of the city. These areas are typically characterized by high rates of poverty, unemployment, and crime. However, it is important to note that these areas are still relatively safe for tourists.
- How can I stay safe while traveling in Columbus?
There are a few things you can do to stay safe while traveling in Columbus, Ohio. These include:
- Be aware of your surroundings. This is a good rule of thumb for any city, but it is especially important in Columbus. The city has a high rate of petty theft, so it is important to keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Don’t leave valuables in your car. This is another common sense tip, but it is worth repeating. If you leave valuables in your car, they are more likely to be stolen. It is best to leave your valuables at home or in your hotel safe.
- Be careful when using public transportation. Public transportation in Columbus is generally safe, but there have been reports of assaults and robberies. It is best to be aware of your surroundings and to travel during daylight hours.
- Use common sense. This is the most important tip of all. If you use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, you will be safe in Columbus.
Columbus, Ohio is a safe city to visit. The crime rate is relatively low, and the people are friendly and welcoming. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when traveling to Columbus, Ohio. By following these tips, you can enjoy your trip to Columbus without any trouble.
Is it safe to travel to Columbus, Ohio?
Answer:
Yes, Columbus, Ohio is generally safe to travel to. The city has a low crime rate and is considered to be one of the safest major cities in the United States. However, as with any city, there are some areas that are more dangerous than others. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.
What are some of the safest areas in Columbus, Ohio?
Answer:
Some of the safest areas in Columbus, Ohio include:
- Downtown Columbus
- German Village
- Short North
- Grandview Heights
- Clintonville
- Upper Arlington
What are some of the most dangerous areas in Columbus, Ohio?
Answer:
Some of the most dangerous areas in Columbus, Ohio include:
- Linden
- Hilltop
- East Side
- South Side
- Franklinton
What should I do to stay safe while traveling to Columbus, Ohio?
Answer:
Here are some tips to stay safe while traveling to Columbus, Ohio:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close at hand.
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Use public transportation or taxis instead of walking or driving yourself.
- Stay in well-lit areas and avoid secluded places.
- Trust your instincts and if you feel unsafe, leave the area immediately.
What are some other things to keep in mind when traveling to Columbus, Ohio?
Answer:
Here are some other things to keep in mind when traveling to Columbus, Ohio:
- The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all types of conditions.
- There are many different things to see and do in Columbus, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
- The city is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
- Columbus is a welcoming and diverse city, so you’re sure to have a great time.
Additional resources
- [Columbus Division of Police](https://www.columbuspolice.org/)
- [Columbus Visitors Bureau](https://www.visitcolumbus.com/)
Columbus, Ohio is a safe city to travel to. The crime rate is low, and the people are friendly and welcoming. There are plenty of things to see and do in Columbus, including museums, parks, and sporting events. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you’re sure to have a great time in Columbus.
Here are some key takeaways:
- The violent crime rate in Columbus is lower than the national average.
- The property crime rate in Columbus is also lower than the national average.
- Columbus is a diverse city with a strong sense of community.
- There are plenty of things to see and do in Columbus, including museums, parks, and sporting events.
Author Profile

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Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.
His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.
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