Portland, Oregon, often called the "City of Roses," is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unique neighborhoods. As a tourist, you might wonder, "Is Portland safe?" This guide will help you navigate the city safely and enjoy all it has to offer.
Understanding Safety in Portland
The 2020 protests and riots in downtown Portland resulted in significant changes to the area. While the protests began peacefully, they often escalated into clashes with police, resulting in property damage and the disruption of business operations.
In the meantime, homelessness in Portland has become more visible, particularly downtown, where encampments have increased. Streets like Burnside and Old Town/Chinatown neighborhoods host many living on the street. During our several days staying downtown, we witnessed half a dozen people taking drugs on the sidewalk, in broad daylight.
Because of this, some areas, particularly downtown, have seen increased vacancies. When my parents and I first arrived in Portland, we were shocked to see so many buildings downtown that were sitting empty. Expensive storefronts were advertising “for lease” and even four years after the protests, many buildings are still boarded. During COVID times, many retailers were forced to close from the repeated vandalism and looting and now downtown has seen a drop in pedestrians.
One way the city is working to combat this issue and revitalize the downtown area is with the Coraline Cat Trail, a project that placed 30 painted cats around the downtown until October 2024 to generate more foot traffic. While Portland does have crime, particularly in certain neighborhoods, violent crime rates are lower than in many other major U.S. cities.
Overall, it’s important to familiarize yourself with neighborhoods. Areas like the Pearl District, Hawthorne, and Alberta Arts District are generally safe and full of attractions. Conversely, parts of East Portland can be less secure, particularly at night. For the best neighborhoods to visit on your trip to Portland, check out my post here.
Portland, Oregon Safety Tips
Portland, Oregon is generally considered a safe city today, but there are pockets where crime rates and homelessness are higher. Follow these tips for staying safe in Portland:
Stay Alert: As in any city, be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets or festivals.
Use Public Transportation Wisely: Portland’s public transit is robust but be cautious during late-night travel. Stick to well-lit and populated areas when waiting for your ride.
Keep Valuables Hidden: If you're carrying a backpack or purse, ensure it’s securely zipped and kept close to you. Avoid displaying valuables like expensive cameras or electronics in public.
Plan Your Routes: Research your destinations ahead of time. Use maps or apps to navigate and choose safer routes.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation or area feels uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to leave. Trust your gut feelings about safety.
I housesat in Portland for 5 weeks, without a car, and was able to see firsthand the increase in homelessness and areas of safety concerns when using public transportation. However, I would argue that I felt generally safe, taking extra precautions like those above and staying away from unlit streets. For more tips on how to stay safe as a solo traveler, check out my post here.
So, “Is Portland safe?”
Portland is a unique city with a lot to offer, and while it’s wise to be mindful of your surroundings, most visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. By staying informed and taking basic precautions, you can explore this beautiful city with confidence. Enjoy your trip to Portland!
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