Is Downtown Tampa Safe?

Specific neighborhoods may have caught your eye if you're visiting Tampa, including downtown. The area boasts attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk, Glazer Children's Museum, Amalie Arena, Sparkman Wharf, and more — but is downtown Tampa safe? Can you freely walk around the neighborhood without fear of mugging or worse? These questions are crucial before exploring any area, including downtown Tampa. Let's examine what statistics show us about downtown. The primary zip codes covering the area are 33602 and 33606. It's important to note that these zip codes aren't exclusive to the neighborhood, so crime statistics may include incidents outside of Tampa's downtown.

What Crime Statistics Show Us

According to demographic data website BestPlaces, the 33606 zip code has a violent crime rate of 35.8 (compared to a national average of 22.7) and a property crime rate of 35.4 (tied with the national average). The 33602 zip code has a violent crime rate of 49.5 — more than double the national rate — and a property crime rate of 49.8. While the crime rates are higher than the national average, that doesn’t mean the area is unsafe. Instead, it’s a reminder to remain alert and aware of potential threats, whether traveling alone or in a group.

What do these statistics mean for you? Locals will tell you that downtown Tampa is usually business-oriented during the day and quieter at night. There’s plenty to do for visitors, with ample restaurants and bars to choose from and the occasional sporting event or concert. While some neighborhoods in Tampa should be avoided at night, downtown isn’t one of them. If you’re visiting downtown, you can have an enjoyable time no matter what time of day it is. All you need are a few proactive tips to remain safe.

How to Stay Safe

Stay in well-lit areas. It may be tempting to cut through a dark alleyway to get to your destination quicker, but the best thing for your safety is to remain in walkways with ample lighting. You'll also be more likely to run into other people, which can reduce the risk of being alone.

Wear bright or reflective clothing. Some of the potential harm you face while in downtown Tampa is unintentional. Tampa has been ranked one of the worst cities in the country for pedestrian deaths. Bright clothing makes it easier for drivers to see you.

Bring a phone — but be aware. You can use a smartphone to share your location with loved ones or call the police if you encounter an unsafe situation, but it's essential to remain aware of your surroundings. If you're engrossed with your phone, it can make you an easier target.

Carry a deterrent. Carrying a whistle, personal alarm, or pepper spray are all options that can prove lifesaving if you're in a dangerous situation. Consider investing in a self-defense class so you know how to protect yourself best if you're physically attacked.

Trust your gut. The most crucial tip for staying safe? Listen to your intuition. If you have a bad feeling about an area or person, it's likely for a reason. Don't disregard your gut feeling, and get out of situations that seem like they could become dangerous.