Is Chattanooga Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Chattanooga is a city in and the county seat of Hamilton County, Tennessee, along the Tennessee River bordering Georgia. It is the fourth-largest city in Tennessee and one of the two principal cities of East Tennessee, along with Knoxville. The city anchors the Chattanooga metropolitan area, the fourth largest metropolitan statistical area in Tennessee.

Warnings & Dangers in Chattanooga

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Chattanooga is generally a calm city; if you follow the precautions, you can avoid problems. Watch your belongings and your surroundings, do not leave your car unlocked on the street, lock your home, and not walk late at night along the city streets.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Taxis are the more common form of transportation in Chattanooga. Use licensed taxi services. Public transport is also reasonably reliable and safe.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpockets are not uncommon in the city. They often operate in tourist places and public transport. Be careful, and watch your bags.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

There is little risk of tornadoes and earthquakes in Chattanooga. Study the weather conditions before visiting this city and take appropriate safety measures. Stay tuned for local news and alerts.

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Serious armed robberies and attacks are rare in Chattanooga. However, take precautions to avoid drawing undue attention to yourself.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

Terrorists can try to carry out attacks in this region. You should monitor media reports and be vigilant at all times. Study the political environment before your trip here.

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

The most common scams in this city are related to SMS and email distribution when scammers try to find your details and credit card details. Don't share this information with strangers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women can travel freely in Chattanooga city alone. It is important to observe safety measures, not walk around the city late at night, and avoid disadvantaged areas.

How Safe Is Chattanooga for Tourists?

Chattanooga is not the safest city to travel to.

The crime index here is at an average level.

The main problems are associated with vandalism, robbery, car theft, and assault.

In general, this city is a little quieter and safer than similar neighboring cities.

There are areas such as the waterfront or the business center – they are generally much safer than other parts of the city.

On the outskirts of Chattanooga, homeless and poor people settlements, these areas are best avoided due to the higher crime rates.

There is a drug trafficking problem in the city.

Avoid any relationship with drug dealers.

Drugs are illegal here, and you can run into serious trouble if you contact them.

It’s important to keep track of your belongings and your surroundings.

Pickpocketing is not uncommon, especially on public transport and in crowded areas.

Walking in the dark is also best avoided.

If you are traveling by car, always close it when leaving, do not leave any personal belongings in the car, and park in a secure parking lot.

Keep your common sense while traveling and keep an eye on your surroundings.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Chattanooga?

Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the United States diplomatic missions unless they come from visa-exempt countries or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Chattanooga?

The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. It has a sign: $ and a code: USD. Also, it abbreviated US$. One dollar is divided into 100 cents (Symbol: ¢).

How's the Weather like in Chattanooga?

In Chattanooga, the summers are hot and muggy; the winters are short, very cold, and wet; and it is partly cloudy year-round. The best times to visit Chattanooga for ideal weather are April to June.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Chattanooga?

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (Lovell Field) is 8 km east of downtown Chattanooga, in Hamilton County, Tennessee. The airport is owned and operated by the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

The 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 Chattanooga?

Chattanooga, a city in southeastern Tennessee, is set along the Tennessee River in the Appalachian Mountain’s foothills. Here you can visit Lookout Mountain before reaching Ruby Falls waterfall and Rock City, featuring sweeping views, sandstone formations, and gardens. Point Park, also atop Lookout, marks the site of a Civil War battle now honored at the Battles for Chattanooga Museum.

Is the Water in Chattanooga Safe to Drink?

The tap water in Chattanooga is not potable. Use bottled or boiled water.

Is Uber Safe in Chattanooga?

There is an Uber taxi in Chattanooga. The fare will depend on trip length and time of the day. You can call a taxi from the app on a smartphone.