Chicago has officially been designated the safest city in the United States for LGBTQ+ travelers, according to a recent report by Misterb&b, a prominent LGBTQ+ travel platform.
The 2025 Queer Safety Index compares cities based on various factors including public safety data, anti-discrimination laws, local protections, and FBI hate crime statistics, identifying the most welcoming destinations for queer travelers.
While cities like San Francisco and Seattle continue to be recognized for their acceptance and Pride celebrations, Chicago has risen to the forefront this year.
Thanks to its long-standing commitment to inclusivity and vibrant queer neighborhoods, such as Northalsted (formerly Boystown), Andersonville, and Uptown, Chicago has earned this top ranking.
A Misterb&b spokesperson shared with Travel + Leisure, “We looked at booking trends and real-world data to predict the safest cities for LGBTQ+ travelers in 2025. It’s about combining where people are actually traveling with where they’ll be safest.”
Beyond statistics, Chicago is steeped in a rich queer history. Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism board, highlights that Northalsted was recognized as the country’s first official gay neighborhood. With its structured community infrastructure, Pride events that rival those in New York, and strong local protections, LGBTQ+ visitors to Chicago find a welcoming environment.
This recognition reflects a shift among travelers who prioritize destinations where they can express their true selves without fear of discrimination or violence. For many LGBTQ+ travelers, the focus isn’t just on entertainment or captivating experiences, but on finding safety, visibility, and a sense of belonging.
As the 2024 Pride Fest approaches, Chicago prepares to host this two-day street celebration, marking its 23rd year in the iconic LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood. This year’s performers include names like Jojo Siwa, Natasha Bedingfield, Bob the Drag Queen, and Sapphira Cristal. A $15 suggested donation at the entrance supports festival workers, performers, and community programs, making it a significant event in the local LGBTQ+ calendar.
Following closely behind Chicago in the 2025 Queer Safety Index are cities such as Seattle, San Francisco, Portland, and San Diego.
The complete list also features Honolulu, Denver, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, and Palm Springs, each selected for their legal protections, cultural openness, and relatively low rates of LGBTQ+ hate crimes. The full rankings can be found on Misterb&b’s website, a travel booking platform catering to queer travelers in search of friendly accommodations.
The growing focus on the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals takes on increased importance, especially within the context of current political developments. The Out Leadership organization, a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has recently published the State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index, which evaluates how supportive various U.S. states are for queer residents.
States like New York, California, and Colorado ranked highest, while conservative states such as Arkansas, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Alabama consistently receive low scores for their treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals.
This stark contrast mirrors the larger political atmosphere, where advocacy groups warn of a heightened threat to equality across the nation.
Todd Sears, founder and CEO of Out Leadership, emphasized this growing divide by stating, “Equality is under siege in many parts of the country. Progressive states are reinforcing rights, while conservative ones are pushing harmful legislation.”
In light of these challenges, nonprofits supporting LGBTQ+ individuals are facing an unprecedented increase in requests for relocation assistance. Organizations such as TRACTION and Canada’s Rainbow Railroad have reported significant surges in demand.
In 2025 alone, Rainbow Railroad has received over 3,000 requests from queer Americans seeking international relocation—an astounding 1,000% increase from the previous year.
Michael Woodward, director of TRACTION, highlighted the urgent need for assistance, especially among trans individuals in states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. He noted, “We used to get a few applications a week. After the last election, we’re seeing up to five a day.”
With limited resources, these organizations are struggling to keep pace with the mounting need for support. The financial hurdles involved in relocating—covering housing, employment, and healthcare—pose significant challenges for marginalized individuals seeking safer communities.
As LGBTQ+ Americans navigate an increasingly complex travel landscape, they are turning to resources like the Queer Safety Index to make informed decisions about where to vacation and possibly relocate.
Internationally, countries such as Canada, Malta, and New Zealand continue to be recognized as top destinations for LGBTQ+ safety and acceptance.
Domestically, the need for careful consideration is paramount, particularly in regions where queer rights are facing active threats.
In an era defined by shifting laws and rising hostility, queer travelers are not merely seeking leisure— they are prioritizing safety and community.
image source from：gayety
