Is Oakland Safe for Travel in 2024?

Oakland, United States
Safety Score
60

Oakland is the largest city and the county seat of Alameda County, California, United States. Oakland’s territory covers what was once a mosaic of California coastal terrace prairie, oak woodland, and north coastal scrub. Its land served as a rich resource when its hillside oak and redwood timber were logged to build San Francisco.

Warnings & Dangers in Oakland

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Petty thefts and assaults are frequent in the city. It's less safe here at night. Try not to walk alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Choose a taxi to return to your hotel late at night and do not carry much cash and expensive items with you.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is not very reliable. Especially it is not safe here late at night at the terminal stations. Use a taxi, but make sure only to call licensed services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH

Pickpocketing occurs in Oakland at every turn, so wear an anti-theft backpack, look after your belongings, and don't leave your phones and wallets unattended. In crowded places, keep an eye on your surroundings.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

The city is at risk of earthquakes and floods. This risk is not high, but it is necessary to monitor weather reports.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

There is a risk of armed attacks or kidnapping in Oakland, and the common goal of robbers is to get your money and valuables. Therefore, if you are attacked, give the robbers what they ask of you to save your life.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in Oakland. 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 ATM at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

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

How Safe Is Oakland for Tourists?

Oakland is a relatively safe city to travel to.

The crime index here ranges from medium to high.

The main problems are related to robberies, drug trafficking, vandalism, and house burglaries.

Oakland is generally a safe city, but in some areas of the city, it may be less safe.

As elsewhere, tourists should follow basic safety precautions.

For example, you should not carry valuables and jewelry with you – it is better to leave them in the hotel safe.

Also, do not take a lot of cash with you for a walk around the city.

Pickpocketing happens quite often, so it is important to carry things in an anti-theft backpack and always keep an eye on your surroundings.

Do not trust those who ask or offer you help – most often, these people are scammers who want to rob you.

Stay in well-lit streets at night and avoid dark alleys where there are no other pedestrians.

West Auckland and Berkeley are considered safer than East Auckland.

At night in the city, it is less safe and better to be with friends than alone.

Remember that if you are attacked, give the criminals what they demand of you; it will save your life.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Oakland?

The United States visa policy consists of foreign nationals’ requirements 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 visa-exempt or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Oakland?

The United States dollar is the US currency, one of the main reserve currencies in the world. One dollar is divided into 100 cents.

How's the Weather like in Oakland?

In Oakland, the summers are long, comfortable, arid, and mostly clear, and the winters are short, cold, wet, and partly cloudy. The best time to visit Oakland in California is from June until October when you will have a pleasant temperature and none till limited rainfall.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Oakland?

Oakland International Airport is in Oakland, California, United States, about 16 km south of Downtown Oakland and across San Francisco on the other side of San Francisco Bay.

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 Oakland?

Oakland is a city on the east side of San Francisco Bay in California. Jack London Square has a statue of the writer, who frequented the area. Nearby, Old Oakland features restored Victorian architecture and boutiques. Near Chinatown, the Oakland Museum of California covers state history, nature, and art. Uptown contains the art deco Fox and Paramount theaters, restaurants, bars, and galleries.

Is the Water in Oakland Safe to Drink?

The city’s tap water is of good quality, but it is better to use boiled or bottled water for drinking.

Is Uber Safe in Oakland?

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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