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Is San Francisco safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Most visitors to San Francisco have no problems, and the main sights are busy and safe by day. The realistic risks are car break-ins (one of the city's most widely reported visitor problems), phone and bag theft, and visible homelessness and drug use in a few central areas, especially the Tenderloin and parts of SoMa and Civic Center. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon.
The real risks
Car break-ins
Common at Fisherman's Wharf, Alamo Square, Twin Peaks and other tourist parking. Leave nothing visible, not even an empty bag.
Phone and bag theft
Phone snatching happens on Muni, BART and busy streets. Keep phones out of reach of passers-by.
Tenderloin and Civic Center
Open drug use and street disorder can be distressing. Avoid walking through at night and stay on main streets by day.
Hills and traffic
Steep streets, cable-car tracks and cyclists. Walk carefully and hold on when riding cable cars.
Ocean safety
Cold water and strong currents at Ocean Beach and Baker Beach; swimming is dangerous.
Areas and times to take care
Union Square, Nob Hill, North Beach, Chinatown, the Marina, Pacific Heights, Hayes Valley and the Mission's main streets are busy and generally safe. Take care in the Tenderloin, parts of SoMa and around Civic Center and 6th Street, particularly at night. Some budget hotels sit on the edges of the Tenderloin; check the exact street.
Getting around safely
Muni, cable cars and BART are safe during the day; at night, stay in busy carriages and stations. Uber, Lyft and Waymo driverless cars are widely used. If you rent a car, never leave luggage or bags inside.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women generally find San Francisco easy and welcoming. Use rideshare at night, avoid the Tenderloin after dark, and choose hotels in Union Square, Nob Hill or the Marina for an easier first visit.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is excellent and safe to drink. Summer is often foggy and cool (highs of 18-20°C), so pack layers in every season; the sun can still burn on clear days. Healthcare is excellent but very expensive; take travel insurance.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is San Francisco safe for tourists?
The main sights are busy and generally safe. Watch for car break-ins and phone theft, and avoid the Tenderloin at night.
Is it safe to leave things in a car?
No. Car break-ins are very common; leave nothing visible, not even an empty bag.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, it is excellent.