I grew up in a suburb of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The city where we live is only 20 minutes from downtown Milwaukee and the lakefront.

Milwaukee is relatively safe for its population size. There are parts of Milwaukee I have never been to and have no reason to go to. I have found that the downtown area of Milwaukee is relatively safe, at least in the regions and places where I travel, seem always to be relatively safe. However, still, I will always take the necessary precautions.

Table of Contents

• Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin Is Relatively Safe
• Crime In Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Exploring Safety and Awareness in Downtown Milwaukee: My Personal Experiences
    • Listen To Our Podcast About How Safe Is Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin? Below or by clicking here.
• About Downtown Milwaukee Wisconsin
• 12 Reasons Why Milwaukee is a Marvelous City
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Questions
  • Is Milwaukee, Wisconsin Safe?
  • Is It Safe To Walk At Night In Hong Kong? Tips to Stay Safe In Hong Kong
  • What Is It Like To Live in Milwaukee?

Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin Is Relatively Safe

I have lived outside Milwaukee, Wisconsin, most of my life. I spend a lot of time in downtown Milwaukee sailing at the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center.

There are no significant cities in the world that you can say are safe; there is always a risk that something can happen. But Milwaukee is a relatively safe city.

I have driven and walked downtown Milwaukee at all times of the day and night. I have never had any problems or felt my life was in danger.

But some parts of Milwaukee are more off the beaten track or are in areas of the city that are not safe enough for me to go to. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is safe as long as you go to the right areas and do not go to the city’s more dangerous areas.

Crime In Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is not the safest city in the United States, but is also not the most dangerous. Many times Milwaukee gets a horrible rape for being a very violent place, but a lot of the violence is in some regions of the city and not all areas.

Also, when compared to some other cities, the crime website Neighborhood Scout has said this about Milwaukee and its crime rate:

According to this data, Milwaukee is right in the middle of the pack regarding cities of the size of Milwaukee. The city of Milwaukee is not the safest place in the United States, but it is also not the most dangerous either.

Milwaukee does have some violent crimes like murder and robberies against personal and other property. But many parts of the downtown areas of Milwaukee continue to get cleaned up to become relatively safe.

I know of quite a few friends who have moved from the suburbs of Milwaukee to the downtown area—all my friends who moved to the downtown area love living there.

Many have said it is an excellent quality of life as they live in apartment buildings with great views of Lake Michigan all year round and in some new apartments.

In determining if Milwaukee is safe, you need to consider that a lot of violent crime happens in specific areas; many parts of the downtown area of Milwaukee continue to be very safe. The city of Milwaukee is continuing to develop many of the downtown areas to try to attract people to live and work in downtown Milwaukee.

Exploring Safety and Awareness in Downtown Milwaukee: My Personal Experiences

Reflecting on my time in downtown Milwaukee, I find myself frequently drawn to the Milwaukee Community Sailing Center, beautifully situated on the lakefront at McKinley Marina. Driving there has become a routine part of my life, and during these visits, I’ve always felt a sense of safety and security.

The area is familiar to me, often bustling with other people, which adds to the feeling of safety. However, I’ve had conversations with friends who work in different parts of downtown Milwaukee, and their experiences occasionally differ from mine.

They’ve mentioned instances where certain areas can feel less safe, reminding me that, like any major city, Milwaukee requires a certain level of awareness and caution. Knowing your surroundings and having a clear purpose for your visit is crucial, especially in an urban environment as dynamic as Milwaukee.

This mix of personal comfort and the need for vigilance is a balance I navigate each time I visit, ensuring that my experiences remain positive and secure.

Listen To Our Podcast About How Safe Is Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin? Below or by clicking here.

About Downtown Milwaukee Wisconsin

I love Downtown Milwaukee. Lake Michigan is one of Milwaukee’s greatest assets. The lakefront is filled with many activities, from kite flying, biking, running, kayaking, sailing, boating, fishing, swimming, art museums, music, theatre, and food.

It is also a city filled with various festivals, from the popular Summerfest to cultural festivals such as the German Fest. The city always has something fun for everyone.

There are great arts and cultural events, from the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre to the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. If you like to sail, kayak, love the arts, want to fish for salmon on Lake Michigan, or eat great food, Milwaukee has something to offer you.

Visit Milwaukee has said about Milwaukee as a city to visit or live in:

Milwaukee is a very unique and fun place to stay. It has a lot to offer everyone.

But simultaneously, like any major city in the United States, you should take caution when visiting downtown Milwaukee. Make sure you know the area you are traveling in and use caution in where you walk while taking care of your personal property.

Compared to its population and size, it is in the middle regarding safety, so we consider Milwaukee a relatively safe place to live and visit.

12 Reasons Why Milwaukee is a Marvelous City

Milwaukee, often known as the “Cream City” because of its signature cream-colored bricks, holds a special place in my heart. Growing up just outside Milwaukee, I have had countless experiences and adventures in this vibrant metropolis.

While many might think of Milwaukee as just another Midwestern city, for me, it’s a hub of culture, nature, and lifelong memories.

Here are 12 reasons, including some personal touches, which highlight why Milwaukee is genuinely fantastic:

1. Stunning Lakefront: One cannot talk about Milwaukee without mentioning its breathtaking lakefront. For me, this isn’t just a scenic spot – it’s where I spend a lot of my time sailing on the vast Lake Michigan, feeling the cool breeze and watching the horizon merge with the city skyline.
2. Exceptional Parks and Beaches: The downtown area is graced with beautiful parks and beaches, offering respite from the urban hustle and a perfect spot for picnics, walks, or just lazing around on a sunny day.
3. World-Class Museums: Milwaukee boasts an array of museums, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re into art, history, or science, there’s something for everyone.
4. Top-notch Repertory Theater: The city is home to a top repertory theater program, drawing theater lovers from all corners. The performances here are truly unmatched and have enriched my appreciation for the arts.
5. Vibrant Culture and Music Scene: From traditional tunes to contemporary beats, Milwaukee is a melting pot of musical genres, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry.
6. A Plethora of Festivals: There’s always something happening in Milwaukee! Among the many festivals, Summerfest stands out – known as “The World’s Largest Music Festival,” it’s an event that pulsates with energy, drawing music lovers globally.
7. Delectable Restaurants: For a foodie like me, Milwaukee is paradise. The city offers a culinary journey, from classic American diners to gourmet experiences, representing cuisines from around the world.
8. Kayaking on the Riverways: If you haven’t tried this, I highly recommend it! Kayaking on Milwaukee’s riverways offers a unique perspective of the city, combining nature with urban views. It’s an experience that remains etched in my memory.
9. Rich History: Milwaukee’s history is deeply embedded in its architecture, neighborhoods, and even its beer! Exploring the city often feels like traveling through time.
10. Diverse Community: The city’s diverse community is its backbone. The mix of cultures, traditions, and languages adds to Milwaukee’s richness, making it a mosaic of experiences.
11. Thriving Sports Scene: Be it cheering for the Bucks in basketball or the Brewers in baseball, the city’s sports spirit is infectious.
12. Unique Architectural Charm: Milwaukee’s architecture is a visual treat from historic buildings to modern skyscrapers. The cityscape tells a tale of its growth, ambitions, and artistic flair.

Milwaukee isn’t just a city on the map for me; it’s home, filled with cherished memories, familiar spots, and endless adventures waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, Milwaukee has a way of capturing your heart.

At A Bus On A Dusty Road, we talk about travel, life, sailing, and ex-pat living. We are all about “Living Life As A Global Citizen.” We explore social, cultural, and economic issues and travel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Related Questions

Is Milwaukee, Wisconsin Safe?

Milwaukee cannot be considered a safe city, but despite the statistics, most of the danger is in specific areas or on the north side, so most of the city is still considered safe. This northside is a place that most tourists or visitors would not travel to. Most of the surrounding suburbs and areas within the city are considered to be safe.

By clicking here, you can discover Milwaukee Wisconsin Safe?.

Is It Safe To Walk At Night In Hong Kong? Tips to Stay Safe In Hong Kong

Hong Kong is still a relatively safe city, and it is usually safe to walk at night. But with any place you are traveling, there are some precautions you should take when walking around a city you do not know. In recent years, Hong Kong has had some violent protests, which has increased crime. Crime in Hong Kong is considered a crime of opportunity and is not as violent as in other parts of the world.

By clicking here, you can discover more by reading our blog, Is It Safe To Walk At Night In Hong Kong? Tips to Stay Safe In Hong Kong.

What Is It Like To Live in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a great city to live in. A city of size has a lot to offer, such as great sports teams, an excellent downtown area, world-class museums and parks, and many festivals—fantastic food and nightlife. Many people born and raised in the Milwaukee area usually want to stay there as they know what a great city Milwaukee is to live and work in.

You can learn more by reading our blog What Is It Like To Live in Milwaukee? by clicking here.