Tourism Alert: These Are the 10 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities for International Travelers in 2025
A newly released 2025 crime and tourism risk analysis has placed ten major U.S. cities under the spotlight as the most dangerous for international travelers. The comprehensive study, combining FBI crime statistics with overseas tourist arrival data, has led to a Tourist-Risk Score ranking that evaluates the probability of encountering crime per international visitor. The findings have serious implications for those planning trips to some of America’s most iconic cities.
Houston, Texas: The Most Dangerous U.S. City for Tourists
With a Tourist-Risk Score of 88.2, Houston ranks as the most hazardous city for international visitors in 2025. Although it welcomed an average of 887,000 overseas tourists annually, the city recorded 2,656 crimes per 100,000 residents. Despite Houston’s cultural vibrancy and popularity among South Korean travelers, its elevated crime rate — especially property theft and burglaries — raises red flags for visitors exploring downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
Detroit, Michigan: High Crime, Lower Tourism
Second on the list is Detroit, with a Tourist-Risk Score of 84.3. While the city attracts fewer international visitors — around 220,000 annually — it has the highest crime rate among the top 10 cities, at 2,941 per 100,000 residents. Despite Detroit’s rich automotive heritage and growing arts scene, the persistently high rates of violent and property crime pose safety concerns for tourists.
Denver, Colorado: Crime Concerns Amid Rocky Mountain Appeal
In third place, Denver receives 286,000 international tourists each year, but its crime rate of 2,710 per 100,000 contributes to a Tourist-Risk Score of 82.9. While the city offers stunning natural attractions and a thriving urban culture, non-violent and violent crimes have been on the rise, affecting the perception of safety among international travelers.
Washington, D.C.: Nation’s Capital, But Not Immune to Crime
Despite welcoming 1.6 million international tourists annually, Washington, D.C. lands in fourth place with a Tourist-Risk Score of 81.1. With a crime rate of 2,125 per 100,000, travelers exploring its historic landmarks and political institutions are urged to stay cautious, especially after dark or in less-monitored neighborhoods.
Seattle, Washington: Beauty and Risk in the Pacific Northwest
Seattle holds fifth place with a Tourist-Risk Score of 79.8 and a crime rate of 2,579 per 100,000 residents. Known for its coffee culture, tech industry, and waterfront scenery, Seattle’s growing street-level crime — including car thefts and assaults — creates complications for its tourism rebound.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Historic City with Urban Crime Struggles
Philadelphia, with 529,000 international tourists per year, takes sixth position, with a Tourist-Risk Score of 79.7. Despite its Revolutionary War landmarks and vibrant food scene, Philadelphia faces persistent safety issues with a crime rate of 2,602 per 100,000.
Minneapolis, Minnesota: Low Tourism, High Crime
Although Minneapolis only welcomes 167,000 foreign visitors annually, its crime rate of 2,859 per 100,000 is among the highest, earning it a Tourist-Risk Score of 79.1. The low volume of tourists doesn’t shield the city from safety concerns, especially amid ongoing debates around urban policing and public safety reforms.
Los Angeles, California: High Tourism Volume, But Risk Remains
Los Angeles is the most visited city on the list, with 3.6 million international arrivals annually. Despite a relatively lower crime rate of 1,966 per 100,000, the Tourist-Risk Score of 78.9 places it eighth due to the high number of potential tourist encounters with crime in districts like Downtown LA and Hollywood.
Dallas, Texas: Growing Tourism, Moderate Crime
With 655,000 international tourists per year, Dallas records a crime rate of 2,078 per 100,000, giving it a Tourist-Risk Score of 76.9. While the city has been developing its tourism appeal through events and cultural festivals, petty crimes and occasional violence continue to tarnish its visitor-friendly image.
Portland, Oregon: Low Visitor Numbers, High Crime Rate
Rounding out the top 10 is Portland, with just 138,000 international tourists annually but a crime rate of 2,897 per 100,000 — second only to Detroit. With a Tourist-Risk Score of 76.7, the city’s combination of vibrant culture and public safety challenges makes it a risky choice for foreign visitors.
Summary Table: Top 10 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities for Tourists in 2025
| Rank | City | Tourist-Risk Score | Annual Overseas Visitors | Crime Rate (per 100,000) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Houston, TX | 88.2 | 887,000 | 2,656 |
| 2 | Detroit, MI | 84.3 | 220,000 | 2,941 |
| 3 | Denver, CO | 82.9 | 286,000 | 2,710 |
| 4 | Washington, DC | 81.1 | 1.6 million | 2,125 |
| 5 | Seattle, WA | 79.8 | Not listed | 2,579 |
| 6 | Philadelphia, PA | 79.7 | 529,000 | 2,602 |
| 7 | Minneapolis, MN | 79.1 | 167,000 | 2,859 |
| 8 | Los Angeles, CA | 78.9 | 3.6 million | 1,966 |
| 9 | Dallas, TX | 76.9 | 655,000 | 2,078 |
| 10 | Portland, OR | 76.7 | 138,000 | 2,897 |
Travel Advisory for 2025: Safety First
While these cities remain among the most culturally rich and globally recognizable destinations in the U.S., international tourists are advised to stay informed and vigilant. Consider booking accommodations in safer neighborhoods, avoid traveling alone at night, and monitor local news and travel advisories. The U.S. State Department and local tourism boards provide updated safety tips and resources for international visitors.
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