Is Birmingham Safe for Travel in 2024?

Birmingham, United States
Safety Score
53

Birmingham is a city in the north-central region of the U.S. state of Alabama. With an estimated population of 209,403 in 2019, it is the most populous city in Alabama. Birmingham is the seat of Jefferson County, Alabama’s most populous and fifth-largest county by area. Birmingham serves as an important regional hub and is associated with the nation’s Deep South, Piedmont, and Appalachian regions.

Warnings & Dangers in Birmingham

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Birmingham is not the safest place for travelers, but you can avoid most of the troubles if you use common sense and take precautions.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is well developed and safe. Keep an eye on your wallets on buses to avoid pickpocketing. Use only licensed taxi services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Like any major city in Birmingham, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, and thunderstorms occur in this area. Check the weather conditions before your trip here.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Attacks and kidnappings can take place in districts of the city center. Avoid places like this. Travel in a group at night, don't be alone. Use a taxi to return to your hotel.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in Birmingham. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Women traveling alone in Birmingham should avoid late-night walks and be very discreet on the city streets. Heightened precautions won't hurt.

How Safe Is Birmingham for Tourists?

Birmingham is not the safest city in the United States.

The crime index here ranges from medium to high.

The main problems are related to vandalism, drug trafficking, and car theft.

Use common sense when traveling in this city.

It is best to travel in groups (especially late at night), not look like a tourist, avoid dark alleys, etc.

Avoid areas north of the Civic Center and west of I-65, which quickly become dangerous.

There is practically no crime in all the villages beyond the mountain, and there is nothing to be afraid of.

Downtown Birmingham is also very well patrolled, so there is nothing to worry about other than beggars asking for money.
Birmingham’s historic Five Points South is one of the most popular nights/weekend destinations and is always well patrolled at the urging of local merchants.

Avoid those who ask or offer you help.

If you are traveling in your own or rented car, always carefully lock it, take things from the car, and park in a guarded parking lot.

Car thefts happen in this city quite often.

Do not shine with a lot of cash and expensive things to not attract the attention of scammers.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Birmingham?

The visa policy of the United States consists of the requirements for foreign nationals to travel to, enter, and remain in the United States. Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the U.S. diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt or Visa Waiver Program countries.

Which Currency Is Used in Birmingham?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States and its territories. It divided it into 100 cents.

How's the Weather like in Birmingham?

In Birmingham, the summers are long, hot, and muggy; the winters are short, cold​, and wet; and it is partly cloudy year-round. The best times to visit Birmingham are spring and fall, from March through May or September through November.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Birmingham?

Birmingham International Airport – Shuttlesworth, formerly Birmingham Municipal Airport and later Birmingham International Airport, is a civil-military airport serving Birmingham, Alabama, and its metropolitan area, including Tuscaloosa.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Birmingham?

Birmingham is the largest city in Alabama, a beautiful historic destination offering an array of exciting things to see and do, from museums and historic landmarks to sports, theater, and great restaurants. Visit the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, explore the Birmingham Museum of Art, and take a self-guided tour of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

Is the Water in Birmingham Safe to Drink?

Tap water is safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Birmingham?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day, and the distance traveled.

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