Exploring the 15 Safest U.S. Cities for LGBTQ+ Travelers

In anticipation of the upcoming travel season, misterb&b has introduced the Queer Safety Index, designed to assist LGBTQ+ travelers in choosing destinations that are both enjoyable and secure. This online travel platform, known for connecting travelers with queer-friendly accommodations and experiences, has created the index by analyzing various sources to evaluate the environment for the LGBTQ+ community across different states and cities.

The Queer Safety Index employs a ranked system based on a weighted scoring model that incorporates data from misterb&b’s most popular destinations. This includes insights into travel trends and preferences from their extensive customer and vendor databases. Additionally, the index utilizes resources like the Movement Advancement Project’s Overall Policy Tally for state-level protections, the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index for local LGBTQ+ policies, the American Civil Liberties Union for legislative risks, and PFLAG for community support, along with the latest safety and hate crime data from the FBI.

Here are misterb&b’s top 15 safest U.S. cities for LGBTQ+ travel:

1. Chicago, Illinois – Known for its vibrant gayborhoods and diverse cultural offerings, Chicago leads the list. With a misterb&b score of 0.925818, Illinois has a high MAP Overall Policy Tally of 43/49 and a perfect HRC Municipal Equality Index of 100.
2. Seattle, Washington – Famous for its breathtaking scenery and culinary delights, Seattle scores 0.882017, with Washington maintaining a high policy tally of 40.25/49 and an HRC Index of 100.
3. San Francisco, California – The historic Castro District and vibrant gay culture earn San Francisco a score of 0.859765. California has a high policy tally of 45/49 and an HRC Index of 100.
4. Portland, Oregon – Known for its unique character and cultural vibrancy, Portland scores 0.828624. Oregon’s policy tally is 37.5/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
5. San Diego, California – Renowned for its sunny climate and welcoming community, San Diego achieves a score of 0.819190. California’s policy tally is 45/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
6. Honolulu, Hawaii – An island paradise for LGBTQ+ visitors, Honolulu scores 0.805810. Hawaii has a medium policy tally of 31.75/49 and an HRC Index of 100.
7. Denver, Colorado – Combining natural beauty and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, Denver scores 0.803871. Colorado boasts a high policy tally of 45.25/49 and an HRC Index of 100.
8. Albuquerque, New Mexico – Known for its unique blend of cultures, Albuquerque scores 0.801627. New Mexico’s policy tally is 36/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada – A city of entertainment, Las Vegas scores 0.794831. Nevada has a high policy tally of 41.25/49 and an HRC Index of 100.
10. Providence, Rhode Island – Offering waterfront charm and cultural richness, Providence scores 0.788671. Rhode Island’s policy tally is 38/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
11. Cathedral City, California – With unique resorts and attractions, Cathedral City scores 0.785347. California’s policy tally is 45/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
12. Palm Springs, California – A renowned oasis for LGBTQ+ travelers, Palm Springs scores 0.782136. California’s policy tally is 45/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Rich in history and LGBTQ+ culture, Philadelphia scores 0.776131. Pennsylvania’s policy tally is 16.75, with an HRC Index of 100.
14. New York City, New York – A hub for arts and culture, New York City scores 0.75. New York’s policy tally is 44.5/49, with an HRC Index of 100.
15. Washington, D.C. – The nation’s capital, known for its historic and cultural offerings, scores 0.737. D.C.’s policy tally is 40.75/49, with an HRC Index of N/A.

Your World Now

The introduction of the Queer Safety Index offers significant benefits for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking destinations that prioritize safety and inclusivity. As travel becomes increasingly accessible, such indices can guide individuals in making informed decisions about where to visit, ensuring that they can enjoy their journeys without concerns about their well-being.

This index also encourages cities to enhance their policies and practices to foster a more inclusive environment, thereby attracting a broader range of visitors and benefiting local economies. As destinations strive to rank higher, there may be positive changes in legislation and community support, fostering an environment of acceptance and equality.