Is Tampa Safe? Crime Overview and Safety Tips

Tampa is seen as a great place to live. It has good food, lots of new businesses, and communities that feel lively and welcoming. The city is also growing fast, with more people moving in each year. But growth like this can bring some safety concerns too, so it’s fair to ask: Is Tampa safe?

This guide looks at that question in a clear way. We’ll use the latest crime numbers and what residents say about daily life to show what safety is really like across the city. You’ll also get a sense of which neighborhoods are known for feeling safer, and which areas people tend to be more careful in.

To help you feel more prepared, we’ll finish with simple safety tips you can use for everyday life. Read on to learn more!

General Safety Overview in Tampa

Is Tampa Florida safe? Overall, Tampa is considered safer than only 18% of cities in the United States, placing its crime rate among the highest nationwide. The primary reason behind this situation is the city's high population density and significant population mobility.

Below is a 2024 data table from Offenses Known to Law Enforcement, which provides a more intuitive comparison between Tampa and other Florida cities.

Another set of data released by the U.S. FBI in October 2024 shows there were 1,855 violent crimes, with a rate of 4.60 per 1,000 residents, and 6,682 property crimes, with a rate of 16.57 per 1,000 residents. The total crime rate was approximately 21.16 per 1,000 residents.

Data from Neighborhood Scout indicates that in Tampa, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is 1 in 217, while the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is 1 in 60.

Across the entire state of Florida, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is 1 in 345, and the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is 1 in 66. In other words, Tampa's crime rates are higher than the Florida average.

Information from the review platform Niche shows that Tampa has higher assault and homicide rates than the national average, while the rates of rape, robbery, burglary, and theft are all lower than the national averages.

A survey of 140 local residents found that 83% feel safe, and more than half reported satisfaction with police response times after an incident is reported.

What recent changes have occurred in the Tampa Florida crime rate?

In 2024, the Tampa Police Department reported a significant 10% decrease in downtown crime compared with previous years.

Tampa’s latest city report shows a strong drop in crime in early 2025. In the first half of the year:

• Violent crime rate decreased by 19%
• Homicides decreased by 63%
• Overall crime rate decreased by 22%

Safe Neighborhoods in Tampa

Although the Tampa crime rate may appear relatively high and some neighborhoods are widely regarded as less safe, it is important not to overlook the many communities that offer an excellent living experience and a harmonious, secure environment.

1. Ballast Point

Ballast Point maintains relatively low levels of both violent crime and property crime. The community is calm, and the lifestyle here is more relaxed.

In terms of amenities, the area offers a variety of housing styles, quality schools, Ballast Point Park (which includes a dog park), and the Perennial Farms where residents can take horseback-riding lessons. It is also just a short drive from downtown Tampa.

2. Beach Park

A key strength of Beach Park is its stability and welcoming atmosphere. Most residents are homeowners, which contributes to its low crime rate.

Environmentally, Beach Park features beautiful tree-lined streets and sits close to Old Tampa Bay, offering scenic waterfront views. The neighborhood also has a university and is conveniently close to Tampa International Airport.

3. Hyde Park

Located just five minutes southwest of downtown, Hyde Park is one of Tampa's oldest neighborhoods, known for blending historic charm with modern convenience. It has plenty of restaurants and shops, making daily life highly convenient.

For those who enjoy walkability and easy access to city amenities, this neighborhood is one of the best choices.

4. Seminole Heights

Seminole Heights is known for its vibrant cultural architecture and locally owned businesses. The neighborhood features brick-lined streets, unique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.

It even hosts an annual home tour event, making it ideal for visitors or residents who want to explore a less touristy area and experience the authentic local atmosphere.

5. New Tampa

New Tampa is characterized by strong community management and well-planned residential areas. Although it is farther from the city center, it suits those who prefer a quieter environment away from downtown noise and who value long-term stability and peaceful living.

Areas to Exercise Caution or Avoid

If you are visiting Tampa, it helps to know that some areas have higher crime rates than others. That does not mean these places are “bad.” It just means you should stay alert, especially at night.

1. Historic Ybor

Ybor is a historic district in Tampa with strong Cuban influences and is well-known for its vibrant nightlife.

However, the crime rate here and in the surrounding neighborhoods is much higher, often associated with gang violence and drug trafficking.

2. Drew Park

This area has a presence of gangs and drug dealers. The most common crimes include violence, assaults, gang-related incidents, and drug dealing.

3. Sulphur Springs

The crime rate here is 184% higher than the national average. Common incidents include burglary, theft, drug-related crimes, and gang activity.

4. North Tampa

This neighborhood is not very large and is located near the University of South Florida. Unfortunately, its crime rate is higher than average.

Other neighborhoods that also require caution include East Ybor, Highland Pines, Courier City, and Florence.

Safety Tips for Living in Tampa

Tampa is a great place to live, but safety still matters day to day. Here are practical tips that can help you feel safe at home and out in the city.

1. Do not travel alone: When you are in a place you do not know well, go with someone if you can. Skip quiet or remote spots by yourself, especially at night.
2. Keep doors closed at all times: Lock your doors and windows every time you leave home. Do the same with your car, even if you are only stepping away for a minute.
3. Do not stare at your phone constantly: Looking down at a screen makes you an easy target. Keep your head up, check your phone only when you need to, and stay aware of who is around you.
4. React quickly: If something feels wrong or you see trouble starting, trust that feeling. Move to a safer place and call the police right away.
5. Outdoor coverage: A lot of break-ins start outside, in driveways, yards, or side paths. Outdoor cameras help you see what is happening before someone gets close to your door. eufyCam S4
6. Stronger street tracking: If you want even tighter coverage, the eufy PoE NVR Security System S4 Max
7. Indoor monitor: Even in a safe building, things can happen when you are asleep or away. An indoor camera lets you check on your place, your kids, or your pets without guessing. The Indoor Cam S350 gives a clear 4K view and can turn around the room, so you get full coverage day and night.
8. Entry check: Not knowing who is at the door is a common worry. A video doorbell fixes that fast. The Video Doorbell E340
9. One connected safety net: Some risks are not thieves. Smoke, leaks, or forced doors can be just as stressful. The eufy ExpertSecure System links sensors with cameras, so it can warn you about break-ins, smoke, or water leaks, and send alerts right away. It keeps everything in one setup, so you are not juggling different devices.

Conclusion

Tampa has a lot going for it, and crime has dropped this year, which is good news. Even so, safety still changes from block to block. What feels fine in one area might feel sketchy a few streets over.

Simple habits help. Stay aware of what’s around you. Walk on well-lit streets at night. Lock your car and your home. When you go somewhere new, take a minute to notice the vibe.

Keep up with local updates, trust your gut, and look out for neighbors. If someone asks, “Is Tampa safe?” you can say yes, but add that it depends on the area and the time. Enjoy the city’s energy, just stay alert. For extra peace of mind at home, eufy security cameras are worth considering.

FAQs

Is it safe to walk in downtown Tampa?

Walking in downtown Tampa is generally considered safe, especially during daytime and in busy areas such as the Riverwalk, Channelside, and business districts. The police presence is visible, and most visitors feel comfortable exploring.

However, like any major city, caution is advised at night—stay in well-lit streets, avoid isolated blocks, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Is Tampa considered a safe city?

Tampa is seen as fairly safe, but it depends a lot on where you are. Some neighborhoods, like Hyde Park, Beach Park, and Ballast Point, are known for being calmer, with lower crime and a strong local feel. Other parts of the city have more problems.

For most residents and visitors, Tampa feels safe if you stick to well-known areas and follow basic habits like staying aware, avoiding dark empty streets late at night, and locking up your car and home.

Where not to stay in Tampa?

Don’t stay in Historic Ybor, Drew Park, Sulphur Springs, or the rougher parts of North Tampa. These areas have more break-ins, drug activity, and late-night trouble, so they’re not the easiest places for visitors to relax.

Pick a calmer base instead, like Hyde Park, Beach Park, or Westchase. These spots are more residential and tend to feel safer and quieter for a short stay.