How Safe Is Key West?

Asked by: Mr. Laurel Schmeler V  |  Last update: September 10, 2022
Score: 4.4/5 (20 votes)

The crime rate in the Florida Keys is low, but you should still use common sense when exploring Key West, especially at night and around hectic Duval Street and Mallory Square. Exercise caution when going into the water as well; be sure to heed all flags and warnings from authorities.

Is there a lot of crime in Key West?

The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Key West is 1 in 48. Based on FBI crime data, Key West is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Florida, Key West has a crime rate that is higher than 64% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

What should you not do in Key West?

What NOT To Do On Your Key West Vacation
  • Don't Drive in Key West. ...
  • Don't Think Duval Street Has All the Restaurants. ...
  • Don't Let Prices Scare You Off. ...
  • Don't Forget These Key West Essentials: ...
  • Don't Feel Bad Taking a Trolley or Train Tour. ...
  • Don't Miss Sunset in Key West. ...
  • Don't Expect Sandy Beaches.

What are the dangers of Key West?

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Hurricane Irma devastated Key West in 2017. Storms can kick up at Key West with lots of dangerous lightning and the occasional waterspout or tornado. Due to the possible big threats, we'll call it a medium risk, but there's a good chance your trip will have a risk lower than sea level.

How many murders are there in Key West a year?

The Key West FL murder/homicide rate for 2018 was 0 per 100,000 population, a 100% decline from 2017. The Key West FL murder/homicide rate for 2017 was 10.95 per 100,000 population, a 184.42% increase from 2016. The Key West FL murder/homicide rate for 2016 was 3.85 per 100,000 population, a INF% increase from 2015.

How Safe is Key West, Florida?

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When should you avoid Key West?

The worst time to visit Key West is August and especially September for a high risk of rain from the annual Caribbean hurricane season. Visitors who favor land activities will find that winter also is a good time to go. Visitors who favor water activities may want to go from late spring to early summer.

What is the safest Florida Key?

The Islands of Marathon have virtually no crime or traffic congestion and thus is seen to many as the best place to live in the Florida Keys.

Do you need a car in Key West?

First, know that the island of Key West is quite small: two miles wide by four miles long. If you decide to not have a car in Old Town, be assured that there are many ways to get around Key West, including: walking, bicycling, taxis, electric rental cars, mopeds, pedi-cabs, city buses, trolleys, and hotel shuttles.

Can you walk everywhere in Key West?

One of the best things about Key West is you can walk just about everywhere. Don't bring your car - leave it at home! We rode the bus to our hotel and got a good view of the island before we arrived at our lodging. Once you are in Key West, you can walk to Mallory Square, Sunset Pier, and Duval Street.

What is the best month to go to Key West?

The best time to visit Key West is between March and May. The winter crowds will taper off, the hotel rates become reasonable and the weather is remarkably similar to winter's blissful 70s and 80s.

When should I avoid the Florida Keys?

Hurricane season in Key West runs from June 1- November 30 (a good thing to know before visiting). However, the heaviest storms are likely to occur in August- October. Obviously, devastating hurricanes don't happen every year, but hurricane season is definitely something to keep in mind.

How many days do you need in Key West?

How Many Days Do You Need in Key West? Key West is worth a day trip, but the more time you have, the better! You could easily spend a week in Key West, but 3-4 days is optimal if you want to do it all and still have time to relax.

Where is the safest place in Florida?

1. Satellite Beach. Kicking off the list as the number one city in Florida with the lowest crime rate is Satellite Beach.

Is the drive from Miami to Key West worth it?

Miami to Key West is a 159 mile drive that takes you across the Overseas Highway and offers some of the most stunning scenery in Florida. It can be completed in a few hours but it's definitely worth taking a few days to do this trip as there are plenty of spots along the way you'll want to stop and explore.

Can you drink tap water in Key West?

The FKAA treated water is pumped 130 miles from Florida City to Key West, supplying water to the entire Florida Keys. The water provided to customers in the Florida Keys is continuously monitored and tested to ensure the water quality is consistent, safe, and meets all Federal and State drinking water standards.

What is the cheapest month to go to Key West?

Visit Key West in the off-season

The fall (September–November) is the low season in Key West, and room rates can drop by 50 percent or more. The hot, storm-prone summer months also see lower prices, and you'll find decent discounts in April and May after the winter crowds thin out.

How do I not look like a tourist in Key West?

Shorts and T-shirts or tank tops are a necessity to stay comfortable during the day. Stick to breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, chambray, or rayon. Sandals are also a staple for Key West living. They are perfect for beach days, while keeping your feet cool for a long stroll down Duval Street.

Can you see Cuba from Key West?

The answer the Americans do not like is “no, you cannot see Cuba from Key West. “ The problem is that the earth, being round, curves and Cuba, which is about 90 miles from Key West, falls below the horizon when you look towards it from Key West.

Which side of Key West is better?

If you want to be in the heart of things, the best area to stay in Key West is the downtown area. Here, you'll be within easy walking distance of Duval Street, giving you plenty of options for drinking and dining, as well as some excellent shopping.

What is the prettiest Key in Florida?

Key Largo - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Key Largo is home to one of the Florida Keys' most famous scenic views with the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Is Key West worth visiting?

Key West, the last of the Florida Keys, is a wonderful place to visit. Whether you plan on staying for the day, week or year, it's a great place to relax and enjoy yourself. It is the southernmost city in the continental USA and is famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere.

Is Duval Street Safe?

The crime rate in the Florida Keys is low, but you should still use common sense when exploring Key West, especially at night and around hectic Duval Street and Mallory Square.

Can you drink alcohol in public in Key West?

A common misperception is that open containers of alcohol are permitted in Key West city limits. While in fact, the opposite is true. The Key West Municipal Code, § 18-87 prohibits open containers of alcoholic beverages in public.

Can you walk around with alcohol in Key West?

There is an open container law in Key West, meaning you can't legally walk around with alcoholic drinks - except during street parties and only in the "party zone". BUT if you pour your drink in a plastic cup and take it with you from a bar you aren't likely to have a problem as long as you aren't causing trouble.