A newly released travel safety report for 2025 has raised serious concerns for international tourists planning visits to the United States. According to the latest Tourist-Risk Score Index, compiled using official crime statistics and international visitor data, ten major U.S. cities have been ranked the most dangerous for foreign travelers this year. Despite their cultural significance and tourism appeal, these urban centers are grappling with rising crime rates—posing a growing safety threat to millions of international visitors.
As post-pandemic travel surges, the report highlights a critical divergence between destination popularity and tourist security, urging caution for travelers planning to explore these urban hubs.
How the Tourist-Risk Score Was Calculated
The ranking methodology combines two primary factors:
- Citywide crime rates (violent and non-violent crimes per 100,000 residents)
- Annual number of international tourists
The Tourist-Risk Score reflects how exposed international visitors are to criminal activity based on local crime rates in proportion to foreign visitor traffic. The results expose an alarming trend—several of America’s most-visited cities also top the list for crime-related dangers.
Top 10 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities for Tourists in 2025
1. Houston, Texas
- Tourist-Risk Score: 88.2
- Annual International Visitors: 887,000
- Crime Rate: 2,656 per 100,000 residents
Houston leads the list with the highest overall risk for tourists. While it’s a major destination, particularly for travelers from South Korea, the city suffers from high property crime rates and increasing reports of violent incidents. Despite robust tourism infrastructure, safety in public spaces remains a pressing concern.
2. Detroit, Michigan
- Tourist-Risk Score: 84.3
- Annual International Visitors: 220,000
- Crime Rate: 2,941 per 100,000 residents
Detroit has the highest crime rate among all cities on the list. Although tourism efforts have grown in recent years—thanks to its Motown legacy and revitalized downtown—the city still struggles with gang violence and theft, making it a high-risk destination for global travelers.
3. Denver, Colorado
- Tourist-Risk Score: 82.9
- Annual International Visitors: 286,000
- Crime Rate: 2,710 per 100,000 residents
Denver’s rising popularity for outdoor and cannabis tourism masks a growing problem with crime, particularly in central neighborhoods. Vehicle theft and aggravated assault are on the rise, creating significant risks for unsuspecting visitors.
4. Washington, D.C.
- Tourist-Risk Score: 81.1
- Annual International Visitors: 1.6 million
- Crime Rate: 2,125 per 100,000 residents
Despite being home to the White House and the Smithsonian, the U.S. capital has seen a notable increase in violent crimes, including robberies and carjackings. The disconnect between its polished federal landmarks and local urban challenges can catch tourists off guard.
5. Seattle, Washington
- Tourist-Risk Score: 79.8
- Crime Rate: 2,579 per 100,000 residents
Famous for its coffee culture and tech scene, Seattle ranks fifth due to high rates of property crime and vandalism, especially in tourist-heavy zones like Pike Place Market. Homelessness and drug-related incidents have also created security issues in recent years.
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Tourist-Risk Score: 79.7
- Annual International Visitors: 529,000
- Crime Rate: 2,602 per 100,000 residents
With rich historical significance, Philly unfortunately suffers from widespread gun violence and drug-related crime, particularly in areas not frequented by police. Tourists are advised to stick to well-patrolled districts and avoid exploring unfamiliar neighborhoods after dark.
7. Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Tourist-Risk Score: 79.1
- Annual International Visitors: 167,000
- Crime Rate: 2,859 per 100,000 residents
Though lesser-known internationally, Minneapolis poses substantial risks due to skyrocketing violent crime rates. The city’s issues with civil unrest in recent years continue to affect tourist confidence and public safety.
8. Los Angeles, California
- Tourist-Risk Score: 78.9
- Annual International Visitors: 3.6 million
- Crime Rate: 1,966 per 100,000 residents
L.A. is America’s most visited city by foreign tourists on this list. While its crime rate is the lowest among the top ten, sheer visitor volume and concentrated crime in neighborhoods like Skid Row and downtown still expose tourists to elevated risks.
9. Dallas, Texas
- Tourist-Risk Score: 76.9
- Annual International Visitors: 655,000
- Crime Rate: 2,078 per 100,000 residents
Dallas’s urban sprawl includes pockets of high-crime zones, particularly in less-policed areas of the city. Tourist hotspots like the Arts District are generally safe, but surrounding areas often lack consistent security infrastructure.
10. Portland, Oregon
- Tourist-Risk Score: 76.7
- Annual International Visitors: 138,000
- Crime Rate: 2,897 per 100,000 residents
Despite its reputation for quirky culture and natural beauty, Portland ranks high due to violent street crime and public safety concerns, especially downtown. Low tourist traffic does not diminish the level of risk for those who do visit.
Implications for Global Travelers
With international travel to the U.S. continuing to rebound, this report serves as a critical guide for travelers seeking to balance destination appeal with personal safety. While crime does not define these cities, it demands greater awareness, preparation, and caution from those exploring them.
Travel experts recommend staying in well-reviewed accommodations, using guided tours in high-crime areas, and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Tourists are also encouraged to register with their embassy before traveling and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Conclusion: Safety First in America’s Urban Icons
America’s top cities remain powerful draws for international travelers in 2025, offering unmatched cultural experiences. However, this new tourism safety ranking underscores a growing disconnect between global travel interest and urban safety realities. As crime rates in these destinations continue to rise, informed and cautious travel planning is now more essential than ever.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
