Mexico continues to be one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, yet safety concerns persist in the media. This comprehensive guide provides current, factual information about safety in Mexico, including the most and least dangerous areas, essential safety rules for foreigners, and comparisons with the United States.

Current Safety Situation (2025)

National Crime Statistics

Mexico's national homicide rate fell slightly for the third consecutive year, from 25.9 per 100,000 in 2022 to 24.9 per 100,000 in 2023. However, the country still records over 30,000 crime-related deaths annually, with organized crime responsible for approximately two-thirds of homicides. Human Rights WatchVision of Humanity

Since 2007, organized crime-related homicides have increased sixfold—from about 3,000 to nearly 18,000 in 2024. Over the past decade alone, Mexico has recorded over 300,000 homicides. Mexico’s Peace Challenges in 2025: Organised Crime, Institutional Decline

Key Trends

• Peace in Mexico improved slightly by 0.7% in 2024, but the country has seen a 13.4% deterioration in peace levels since 2015 Mexico’s Peace Challenges in 2025: Organised Crime, Institutional Decline
• Two-thirds of homicides in 2023 were committed with firearms, with authorities estimating that around 70% of firearms used in crimes are smuggled from the United States World Report 2025: Mexico | Human Rights Watch
• Violence rarely affects foreign visitors and residents, with safety risks varying widely by location Violent Crime In Mexico (2025)

Most Dangerous States and Cities (2025)

Level 4 "Do Not Travel" States

The U.S. State Department has issued its highest-level warnings for six states due to crime and terrorism: U.S. Department of StateFrommers

1. Colima - Highest homicide rate with geographical location near smuggling routes making it a prime target for organized criminal groups 10 least Peaceful States in Mexico in 2025
2. Guerrero (including Acapulco) - Armed groups operate independently of government with frequent roadblocks and violence toward travelers Mexico Travel Advisory | Travel.State.gov
3. Michoacán - Crime and violence are widespread throughout the state Mexico Travel Advisory | Travel.State.gov
4. Sinaloa - Home to the Sinaloa Cartel with a homicide rate of 28.9 per 100,000 people in 2024 10 least Peaceful States in Mexico in 2025
5. Tamaulipas - Heavily armed criminal groups patrol the state, especially along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo Mexico Travel Advisory | Travel.State.gov
6. Zacatecas

Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" States