Kings Cross

Kings Cross is much safer than it used to be but still has higher crime rates than other Sydney areas. Better to stay elsewhere and maybe visit during the day if you're curious about the history.

Kings Cross has cleaned up a lot from its notorious past, but it's still Sydney's edgiest neighborhood and probably not where you want to base yourself as a solo female traveler. The police station is right there and you'll see regular patrols, but there's still a mix of strip clubs, drunk tourists, and people who make the area unpredictable late at night. The backpacker hostels are cheap, but the constant turnover of transient travelers creates a chaotic atmosphere. During the day around the fountain area it's manageable - just busy and a bit gritty. After 9pm the character changes significantly with late-night crowds and adult entertainment bringing different energy to the streets. The train station makes it easy to get out quickly if you feel uncomfortable. Most solo female travelers prefer to stay in Potts Point nearby and just pass through Kings Cross during daylight if they're curious about seeing it.