Is Pensacola Safe for Travel in 2024?

Safety Score

United States : Safety by City

Pensacola is the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle, and the county seat of Escambia County, Florida. Pensacola is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the Gulf Coast region, the largest between New Orleans and Tampa.

Warnings & Dangers in Pensacola

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

In general, Pensacola is safe to travel to; however, theft and crime with drug addiction do occur here. Avoid disadvantaged areas and travel in groups to avoid attacks.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is well developed but is best used during the day. It may not be safe at night due to pickpockets and criminals. Taxi is a reliable way to travel, use only licensed services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

There are many pickpockets in the city; they are usually found in crowded places and on public transport. Don't leave your personal belongings unattended, and keep an eye on your backpacks.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : HIGH

The tornado season in Pensacola, from June to November, can be quite unsafe for traveling. At this time, you need to take care of your safety or avoid visiting the city. Examine the weather before you visit here.

MUGGING RISK : HIGH

The risk of serious burglary and assault is high in Pensacola due to drug problems. Unfortunately, tourists are also often victims of local criminals. You may be robbed or forced to give away valuables. Therefore, try not to carry a lot of cash and expensive devices with you.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

There is no high risk of terrorism in Pensacola. However, it can occur here due to intolerant sentiments in local society and the global threat of terrorists by forgiving the United States. Stay up to date on your trip to this city.

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Scammers in Pensacola often install card readers at ATMs. Therefore, be very careful and withdraw money only from ATMs at banks.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

Women traveling alone should take heightened precautions: avoid late-night walks and take a taxi to the hotel rather than on foot. And it's better to avoid bars and nightclubs.

How Safe Is Pensacola for Tourists?

Pensacola is the medium-safest city in its region.

The crime index here ranges from high to medium, depending on the type of crime.

The main problems are related to home burglary, theft of belongings, drug trafficking, and vandalism.

Usually, crimes in the city are related to drug trafficking.

It causes attacks on residents and tourists, as well as vandalism.

Do not under any circumstances get involved with the drug trade – it is not legal here.

In Pensacola, and you’ll be safe if you stick to the main tourist areas.

Avoid the Pensacola area known as Brownsville on Route 90 from D Street to Mobile;

While the sheriff’s office has tried to stop crime in the area, drugs and prostitution still make it a dangerous place to stay.

Be careful when driving on the Gulf Beach Highway; a narrow road with chronic speeders and dead bends kills half a dozen lives a year.

I-10 via Pensacola is famous for its speed trap; remember, the speed limit drops to 60 mph in the Pensacola area, not 70 mph in neighboring counties.

Pensacola is at risk of hurricanes and tropical storms.

In an impending hurricane or tropical storm, pay attention to TV and radio news alerts to tell you what to do and what to expect.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Pensacola?

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 Pensacola?

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 Pensacola?

In Pensacola, the summers are long, hot, and oppressive; the winters are short, cold, and windy; and it is wet and partly cloudy year-round. The best times to visit Pensacola for ideal weather are March to June.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Pensacola?

Pensacola International Airport is a public-use airport 6 km northeast of Pensacola, Florida’s central business district. This airport is one of the five major airports in North Florida and is the second-largest by passenger count, only behind Jacksonville.

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 Pensacola?

The area is popular with outdoor men, nature lovers, and golfers from all over the gulf coast region, and it’s got more than its fair share of cultural and historical attractions too. Compared to many of the state’s more touristy destinations, Pensacola is relatively inexpensive and is more family-friendly than many other premier tourist centers like Daytona and Miami Beach.

Is the Water in Pensacola Safe to Drink?

The water quality in Pensacola is not very good. Tap water is not potable.

Is Uber Safe in Pensacola?

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