Is Mexico safe for Americans and other foreigners looking to move or travel there? This is one of the most frequently searched questions about life in Mexico—and it deserves a clear, data-driven answer.
If you’ve ever considered relocating to Mexico, becoming a digital nomad, or even just taking an extended vacation, odds are you’ve heard conflicting stories. On one hand, mainstream media often paints Mexico as a country plagued by violence. On the other hand, expats and seasoned travelers will tell you they feel safer in Mexico than they did back home.
Let’s break down what the actual statistics say so you can make an informed decision about your safety and your future.
Is Mexico Safe Compared to the U.S.?
Let’s get to the numbers. According to FBI data, the homicide rate for Americans in the U.S. is 4.8 per 100,000 people. Compare that to 2.1 per 100,000 Americans in Mexico—less than half. These stats come directly from the U.S. State Department and FBI and reflect a year-long period where 5.7 million Americans visited Mexico.
Even more telling, the rate for American expats actually living in Mexico is just 0.3 per 100,000. That means people who live in Mexico full-time are even less likely to face danger than short-term visitors.
The media often fails to distinguish between cartel-related violence in specific regions and the daily life of expats in safe cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City’s business districts. Most violent incidents are targeted, localized, and unrelated to foreigners.
Safe Cities in Mexico for Expats
If you’re still asking “is Mexico safe,” the answer depends heavily on where you go. Just like in the U.S., Mexico has cities that are safer than others. Here are some of the safest cities in Mexico by homicide rate per 100,000 residents:
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Mérida – 1.5
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Cabo San Lucas – 3.7
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Mexico City – 8.6
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Puerto Vallarta – 8.8
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Guadalajara – 17.1
Now compare those to major U.S. cities:
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Philadelphia, PA – 33.0
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Washington, D.C. – 29.3
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Chicago, IL – 22.8
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Houston, TX – 19.0
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Los Angeles, CA – 10.2
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New York City – 5.3
When we compare Guadalajara to Houston, Houston is statistically more dangerous, even though Guadalajara is one of the higher-risk Mexican cities.
What Kind of Crime Happens in Mexico?
The question is Mexico safe also needs context. The type of crime matters. In the U.S., many violent incidents are random—mass shootings at malls, schools, or concerts. In contrast, most violent incidents in Mexico are targeted, related to organized crime and generally do not involve tourists or expats.
In tourist areas, crime tends to be non-violent and rare. High-traffic destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and San Miguel de Allende have significant police presence and local incentives to keep foreign visitors and residents safe.
Is Mexico Safe for Families and Digital Nomads?
Yes. Thousands of Americans have moved to Mexico to raise families, retire, or build location-independent businesses. Digital nomads, remote workers, and investors are thriving in Mexico’s growing expat hubs.
Most of the places they settle—like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, Oaxaca, and Mexico City’s Roma and Condesa neighborhoods—are known for safety, culture, walkability, and infrastructure.
Families enjoy lower costs of living, access to international schools, and safer neighborhoods than they left behind in the U.S.
Why the Media Gets It Wrong
Why does the perception of danger persist? Western media has long sensationalized crime in Mexico without context. They rarely mention that you’re more likely to be harmed randomly in places like Chicago or Philadelphia than in Puerto Vallarta or Mérida.
Ask yourself: when was the last time you heard about a mass shooting in Mexico? These incidents, unfortunately common in the U.S., are nearly unheard of in Mexico due to strict firearm regulations.
So, Is Mexico Safe?
In short: yes, Mexico is safe—especially for Americans who are not involved in illegal activity and who avoid known conflict zones. If you stick to expat-friendly cities and live with the same street smarts you’d use anywhere, the odds are in your favor.
The real question shouldn’t be is Mexico safe—it should be: is Mexico safer than where you’re living now?
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re considering moving to Mexico, our team at Entrepreneur Expat is here to help. We’ve personally vetted real estate agents, immigration lawyers, business experts, and more to support your relocation.
📍 Book a consultation today at entrepreneurexpat.com/consult
And if you’re not quite ready to relocate, but you are looking to build location-independent income, check out:
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