Is Atlanta safe? What you should know

Atlanta, the capital of Georgia and a major cultural hub in the southeastern United States is renowned for its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and burgeoning food scene. Known as the "City in a Forest" for its lush tree canopy, Atlanta offers visitors a mix of southern charm and metropolitan energy. This is a city with a music scene that rivals any in the United States, a wealth of great restaurants, and a strong history of the civil rights movement and African-American culture.

But is Atlanta safe?

It's a big city, and no big city in the world is free of crime, including violent crime. Back in the early 2000s, Atlanta continually ranked near the top of the list for violent crime rates in US cities, giving it a bad reputation that lingers to this day. However, the Atlanta Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies have done a lot of work to bring crime rates down in recent years, with sharp declines in crime rates since 2009, particularly in property crime.

Unfortunately, while petty crimes are less common, homicides remain a relatively high portion of the Atlanta crime rate, thanks mainly to gang activity in the city. You're very unlikely to encounter this kind of crime when visiting the city, with violent crimes and gang activity mostly restricted to areas of the city where tourists don't go. However, organized crime does have a way of increasing crimes of all kinds across the city, so in downtown Atlanta, you may encounter scammers, pickpockets, and other petty crimes that you will find in any major metropolis.

To make a long story short, most neighborhoods in Atlanta are fairly safe. However, this is a city with a higher crime rate than the national average, and there are safety concerns even in downtown Atlanta, despite proactive community involvement. The property crime rate and petty theft rate in the city have fallen a lot in recent years, but violent crimes do unfortunately still happen.

Whether you're touring historic landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park or enjoying the city's thriving arts scene, understanding how to navigate Atlanta safely is essential. This comprehensive guide will help you explore the city with confidence.

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in Atlanta

Atlanta is a bustling city with diverse neighborhoods, so knowing how to navigate it safely can make your trip more enjoyable. Places like Mechanicsville and Vine City are best avoided as an outsider; Mechanicsville, in particular, has a violent crime rate of 2530 per 100,000 people, which is appallingly high. On the other hand, areas like Midtown and Buckhead are extremely safe and prosperous, and you would have to be incredibly unlucky to become a victim of crime here.

Getting from the airport to the City Center safely

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is one of the busiest airports in the world, but getting to the city center is straightforward.

• MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority): The MARTA train is a reliable and affordable option for reaching downtown or midtown Atlanta directly from the airport. It’s safe during daylight hours but avoid traveling alone late at night. There are emergency phones located in the stations that will allow you to contact the transit police if you feel threatened at any time.
• Ride-sharing or taxis: Uber and Lyft are widely available. Verify your driver’s identity before entering the car and consider sharing your ride status with a trusted contact.
• Shuttles: Many hotels in Atlanta offer shuttle services, making them a convenient and safe choice for families or groups.

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in Atlanta

• Pickpocketing: Keep your belongings close, especially in crowded places like the Atlanta BeltLine or major attractions. Try not to flash large sums of cash around or wear particularly flashy jewelry. The more safe neighborhoods of the city often have a visible police presence, so keep your eyes out for local law enforcement.
• Neighborhood awareness: Atlanta is known for its patchwork of neighborhoods, each with a distinct vibe. Research where you’re staying to ensure it’s a good fit for your preferences and safety needs. Some neighborhoods of Atlanta are incredibly safe, while others are best avoided due to high crime rates, poverty, and urban blight.
• Cultural awareness: Atlantans are known for their hospitality, but politeness goes a long way. A friendly "hello" or "thank you" can set a positive tone.

Is tap water in Atlanta safe to drink?

Yes, Atlanta’s tap water is safe to drink and meets all EPA standards. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.

Safe accommodation options in Atlanta

If you haven’t booked your stay yet, consider these tips:

• Downtown and Midtown: These areas are ideal for visitors who want to be close to attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the High Museum of Art. They are generally safe and well-patrolled. As the top tourist areas of the city, they're some of the safest neighborhoods, with violent crime being very rare. However, the presence of tourists does attract pickpockets, purse snatchers, and other petty criminals. So as you should in any of the world's major cities, it's a good idea to keep your wits about you and only walk in well-lit areas.
• Buckhead: Known for its upscale vibe, Buckhead offers safe and luxurious accommodation options. Thanks to its fairly affluent population, it's a great place to try restaurants or visit trendy art galleries, too.
• Decatur: This family-friendly suburb provides a quieter alternative to the bustling city center while maintaining accessibility to major attractions. Providing a respite from the busy city, this is a quiet and low-crime neighborhood where you can often discover local community events and feel completely safe.

Pro tip: If you arrive early or want to explore before check-in, store your luggage with Bounce. We partner with local businesses to make sure you always have a place to leave your bags so you can explore. Knowing your belongings are safely looked after at one of our luggage storage facilities in the city will be one less thing for you to worry about while you enjoy metro Atlanta.

Things to keep an eye out for

Atlanta’s culture is a blend of Southern tradition and urban modernity. Here are some cultural insights to help you navigate smoothly:

• Etiquette: While Atlantans are generally friendly, avoid discussing polarizing topics like politics with strangers. That's good advice wherever you go in the world. In the South, including Atlanta, good manners are still valued, so using 'please' and 'thank you' will go a long way to helping you blend in more with the locals.
• Dress code: Casual attire is appropriate for most places, but upscale venues in Buckhead may have stricter dress codes.
• Language: English is widely spoken in Atlanta, but like any major city, it has its own slang and vernacular. While Atlanta is in the south, don't be surprised if you don't hear too many stereotypically Southern accents here, as these are becoming less common as the city grows. However, one thing that is stereotypically Southern here is a focus on manners and etiquette.
• Scams: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers asking for money or offering unsolicited help. Stick to official sources for tickets and services.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

Atlanta’s size and layout can make getting around a bit tricky, but these tips will help you stay safe:

• Public transportation: MARTA is a convenient way to get around, but avoid empty stations or carriages at night.
• Driving: Atlanta traffic can be intense, so practice defensive driving. Use GPS to avoid unfamiliar or unsafe areas.
• Walking: Stick to well-lit and populated streets. Neighborhoods like Midtown and the Eastside BeltLine are great for walking during the day.
• Biking: The Atlanta BeltLine is bike-friendly, but wear a helmet and stay alert for pedestrians.
• Baggage: Unfortunately, property crime does happen. You can keep your back safe by dropping them off at a Bounce luggage storage anywhere in the city, where they will be looked after for as long as you need.

Nature and Atlanta: Safety tips to keep in mind

Atlanta’s nickname, "City in a Forest," reflects its abundant green spaces, tree-lined streets, and outdoor activities. Here’s how to enjoy nature safely:

• Parks: Piedmont Park and Centennial Olympic Park are beautiful spots, but stay in well-trafficked areas, especially after dark.
• Weather: Summers in Atlanta can be extremely hot and humid. Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
• Wildlife: In wooded areas, be mindful of ticks and mosquitoes. Use repellent and check for ticks after hikes.
• Hiking: Trails like those at Sweetwater Creek State Park offer stunning scenery. Stick to marked paths and carry water.

Last tips in the case of an emergency

• Emergency numbers: Dial 911 for all emergencies. For non-urgent police matters, call 311.
• Healthcare: Atlanta is home to world-class medical facilities like Emory University Hospital. Ensure you have travel insurance for peace of mind.
• Transportation: In case of minor emergencies, rideshare apps can be a quicker and cheaper alternative to ambulances for non-life-threatening situations.

Atlanta is a dynamic and welcoming city with something for everyone, from its historic landmarks to its culinary delights. In recent years, the city has made monumental efforts to bring its crime rate down, with the result that this is a safe city to visit, despite its reputation. However, it's always a good idea to keep your wits about you, avoid bad neighborhoods, and leave your belongings at a Bounce luggage storage to keep them safe while visiting Atlanta, GA.