A city becomes dangerous for locals and expats alike due to many criminal violent incidents. If security is your primary priority, knowing the most dangerous cities in the world will help you trim down your options for where to live next and which locations you should definitely put last on your list.
If, for some reason, one of the cities on this list is where you must be, it still would be great to know beforehand what kind of place you’re getting yourself into. At the very least, you can prepare for and execute certain precautionary measures before moving to any of these locations.
One of the deadliest possible dangers to peace in any area is violence. Not that even though crime shows are exciting on the big screen, they are far from being tempting in real life.
Below is a list of the most dangerous cities in the world the highest homicide rates per person, based on a report of the Citizens’ Council for Public Security and Criminal Justice.
Table of Contents
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Tijuana, Mexico
With 138 murders per 100,000 residents, Tijuana is the deadliest city in the world. In this city, there are roughly seven fatalities each day. The poverty and violent crimes like rape, homicide, and kidnapping that occur in this city are well-known. Human trafficking and drug dealing by various gangs are the main causes of such violence. The conflict between the Tijuana and Sinaloa cartels is another cause of the bloodshed.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Acapulco, Mexico
Another one of the most dangerous cities in the world is Acapulco. The Hollywood elite used to frequent this city, but today the drug battle is being fought on the streets. Kidnappers, assassins, extortionists, auto thieves, and murderers can all be found in its hillside communities, which are the bastion of gangs like 221 or Los Locos. The effect of this violence is 111 killings per 100,000 heads.
The destruction of the tourism business is primarily due to this unchecked violence due to the fact that both locals and visitors find these activities to be disturbing. Some less wealthy business owners who are unable to purchase security equipment pay for protection. If you’re able to afford it, owning a bulletproof car is recommended if you must move to this city for your own safety.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Caracas, Venezuela
2017 has already seen Caracas ranked as the world’s most deadly capital. It continues to rank among the top three most dangerous cities in the world, with 100 murders per 100,000 people. Poverty and a lack of good law and order are the main causes of violence in this location.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Ciudad Victoria, Mexico
Ciudad Victoria is one of the most unsafe cities in Mexico, with 86 fatalities per 100,000 inhabitants. These killings are the consequence of shootouts in the city between criminal gangs, police, and the military. In addition, it occurs as a result of clashes between competing drug gangs and violence inside prisons.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Cuidad Juarez, Mexico
Residents of El Paso, Texas, were treated to loud music and nightclubs by Cuidad Juarez. However, because of the high crime rate, its tourism has completely disappeared. With 86 murders per 100,000 citizens, this city is now one to stay away from.
It is Mexico’s worst city for women. Violence does not, however, target US citizens directly. In the event of a murder, carjacking, theft, robbery, burglary, or other crime, travelers and residents must exercise extreme caution and vigilance. To avoid any hassle, you should use a car that can withstand bullets rather than solely relying on the cops.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Irapuato, Mexico
There are 81 murders per 100,000 persons in this mid-sized Mexican city. The Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel and the Jalisco Cartel New Generation are at war with each other over territory, which is the cause of this bloodshed.
Mass shootings in pubs and men using assault guns are clearly depicted in numerous videos. The federal authorities handled this case when local police withdrew. However, the current level of violence is still beyond the capacity of the federal administration.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Ciudad Guayana, Venezuela
One of the primary issues in Venezuela is the prevalence of murders and other violent crimes. With 78 murders per every 100,000 residents, Ciudad Guayana ranks second among the deadliest cities in Venezuela. Due to the high frequency of crimes including rape, murder, and sexual assault, residents and tourists should exercise extreme caution while exploring the city. Economic challenges and organized gangs are the causes behind it.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Natal, Brazil
Theft, carjacking, physical and sexual assault, and other crimes are the most prevalent in Natal. Despite still being a well-liked tourist attraction, this city has a homicide rate of 75 per 100,000 people. The main causes of the high crime rate are poverty and conflict between gangs and convicts.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Fortaleza, Brazil
With 69 murders per 100,000 population, Fortaleza is one of the most dangerous cities in the world. It is close to a number of well-known tourist destinations, including Jericoacoara Beach and Lencois Maranhenses National Park. Regrettably, violent crimes obscure its charm. As a result, you should walk around this city very cautiously.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela
This city is known as one of the world’s largest slums because of the prevalence of gangs, narcotics, and violent crime. With 69 murders per 100,000 people, all of its favorable publicity is destroyed. Active gangs, bad conditions for law and order, and a weak court are the main causes of violence.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
In Pietermaritzburg, both private and public transportation can be extremely risky at night and during the day. If you’re going to explore the city, you should take extreme precautions and refrain from withdrawing cash unless they are in a hotel or bank. The night is when violent crimes tend to happen more, so you should always be on guard. The large number of people and insufficient police officers are to blame for it.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
In this city, there are a lot of violent crimes including kidnapping. Conflicts on the political and social fronts are the primary causes of these crimes. Try to steer clear of evening travel in Port Moresby. Have a security escort with you at all times if you must travel, or follow the foreign office’s advice.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Pretoria, South Africa
The dangerous cities of the world include Pretoria as well. Even while traveling in groups, you ought to avoid going out at night and strolling. In this metropolis, you won’t be immune to gang warfare and gun robbery.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: San Pedro Sula, Honduras
Since there were the most murders there in 2009, it was once known as the “capital of murder.” Sexual assault and other forms of violence against locals and visitors are frequent. The most prevalent type of theft is petty theft, so exercise extreme caution. The city has a high rate of attacks on ATM users, so try to limit your use of them as well.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Durban, South Africa
Despite being the third-largest and busiest city in South Africa, poverty is still at an all-time high there. It is renowned for a number of violent crimes, including rape, murder, and robberies. Political instability is another significant factor causing this violence.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg is also one of the most dangerous cities in the world. In this area, flaunting your affluence might result in kidnapping. As a result, you should go with extreme caution.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Salvador, Brazil
Salvador is one of the most dangerous cities in the world, and it’s such a shame really as it has stunning beaches and vibrant skylines. It is well known for crimes committed on the street, such as kid pickpockets. As a result, avoid using public transportation whenever possible for a safer trip.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
One of the most hazardous locations on earth is Rio de Janeiro, particularly for tourists. Not visiting beaches after dark is advised by both the US Department of State and the UK Foreign Office. Don’t flaunt your money by wearing flashy jewelry or wearing pricey watches.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Cape Town, South Africa
With 66.36 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, the capital of South Africa is also among the most deadliest cities in the world and in South Africa alone.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Homicide rates in San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital, are 42.40 per 100,000 people. The most violent crime in Puerto Rico is infamously concentrated in this city. Poverty and societal upheaval are the causes of these atrocities.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Baltimore, Maryland, US
Baltimore receives a lot of tourists, in part because of its food and art culture, among other things. However, crime rates are high, so even in supposedly safe locations, you must be on the lookout for pickpockets if you’re going to explore while in the city.
With a high murder rate of 75.33 per 100,000 residents, violent crime is a problem in the city as well. You are generally safe, though you should be on the lookout for theft. It is best for you to stay away from the city’s riskier neighborhoods.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Natal, Brazil
Brazil’s Natal is one of the most dangerous cities on earth.
Physical and sexual assault, theft, carjacking, and other crimes are common in Natal. Although the city is still a well-liked tourist attraction, there are 75 murders for every 100,000 people. The main causes of the high crime rate are destitution and conflict between gangs and convicts.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Belem, Brazil
On the Amazon River in Brazil, there lies a port city called Belem. The prevalence of drugs in this area is largely due to the severe poverty that forces people to work furiously to live.
A paramilitary gang composed primarily of police officers who are not on duty contributes to the city’s high murder rate of 71.4 per 100,000 residents. Numerous people have died as a result of these militia gangs, and the militia itself is increasingly threatened by the gangs it is trying to eliminate.
It could be perilous for you to wander out into the back alleyways, especially if you are wearing jewelry that makes you a target. The city is generally safe, and in some sections, even pleasant, and it does have a thriving nightlife.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Vitoria da Conquista, Brazil
A small number of historic structures are the only things that draw tourists to Vitoria da Conquista. The city is even less enticing due to its high murder rate, which is 70.3 per 100,000 people. It is very common for assaults, muggings, pick-pocketing, and frauds to target tourists.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Maceio, Brazil
Thanks to its beautiful beaches and coral reefs, Maceio is a well-liked vacation spot. However, the city was once the most dangerous in Brazil and in the entire world, in large part because of the widespread drug gangs and extreme poverty.
The murder rate in the area has been reduced thanks to military police operations, but it still stands at 69.9 per 100,000 people. However, as long as they stay in the proper location, most visitors are unlikely to encounter issues; anyone who ventures into the nearby slum communities called favelas runs the risk of losing their lives.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: St. Louis, Missouri, USA
The city of St. Louis is a humming industrial hub and is the location of several Fortune 500 businesses. Despite this, the city continues to rank among the most deadly in the country, with 65.8 murders per 100,000 residents. There is a lot to do here and tourists are generally relatively safe. However, it is best to stay in certain designated zones, as is the case in cities all over the world.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Kingston, Jamaica
Jamaica has some of the best tropical beaches and coral reefs in the world, making it one of the top tourist attractions. The capital of this little island nation should be avoided, nevertheless. The city of Kingston has a high crime rate, and tourists are frequently the targets of criminals. Without a local to act as their guide, tourists entering the city run the risk of getting hurt.
As long as they remain in the proper places, the majority of visitors will be fairly safe. The murder rate in Kingston is 59.7 per 100,000 residents.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Aracaju, Brazil
Aracaju, a beach city, has recently gained popularity as a place to go on budget vacations and has recently seen investments made to update its transportation system. The city not only boasts beautiful beaches, but it also offers other sights to see including parks and an aquarium.
The city does, however, have high crime rates with a murder rate of 58.9 per 100,000 inhabitants.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Feira de Santana, Brazil
Feira de Santana, Brazil, is one of the world’s most dangerous cities.
The economic and agricultural hub of Feira de Santana has not much to offer tourists. The city is home to both lawful companies and dangerous gangs in addition to a bustling drug trade. The city has a murder rate of 58.8 per 100K residents, which is relatively high compared to the country as a whole.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Cali, Colombia
One of the most significant hubs for sports and the arts in Columbia is Cali. The city has played host to a number of national and international sporting events, and there are lots of things to do for transient guests. The city is most well-known for something less desirable, though.
The vicious Cali Cartel was based in Cali until it went out of business in 1996. The murder rate in the city is currently 49.6 per 100,000 inhabitants, and organized crime is still common there as they profit from the lucrative drug trade. You are unlikely to encounter issues if you exercise caution.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Los Cabos, Mexico
Due in great part to its prime position, Los Cabos is a city that has recently undergone development for the tourism industry. But the city’s drug trade is prevalent, and as a result, street fighting between competing gangs is common. Los Cabos is also one of the most dangerous cities in the world, with 111.3 killings per 100,000 residents.
Tourists still visit the city despite the fact that gangs have sent warning signals to rival groups and the local police by hanging victims from bridges adjacent to popular tourist destinations. Nevertheless, despite the risks, visitors are rarely targeted and steps have been taken to deal with the gangs. Los Cabos is a prime illustration of a city where it is strongly advised against venturing outside of the main tourist areas and into the surrounding neighborhoods.
Other Dangerous Cities in the World
The cities listed herein are some of the other most dangerous cities globally, ranked from the most risky cities:
Yangon, Myanmar
The situation in the capital of the country reached a critical stage when a coup took place in February 2021 and the military of Myanmar seized power. The city received just 39.5 out of a potential 100 points, making it one of the most dangerous cities in the world.
Karachi, Pakistan
Despite recent security improvements, there are still serious issues with income disparity, religious warfare, and terrorism in Pakistan. It is thought that kidnapping and attempted terrorist strikes are quite possible. The overall rating for the city is 39.7.
Caracas, Venezuela
Despite being a prominent hub for culture, business, and industry, the capital of Venezuela is ranked as among the most dangerous cities in the because of a high crime rate. In Caracas, there are an estimated 53 murders for every 100,000 people, which is a relatively high murder rate.
Cairo, Egypt
Although Cairo is famous for its pyramids and rich heritage, the city also has an extremely high crime rate. Cairo is a city with a lot of minor crime, significant income inequality, and unsafe environmental conditions. Some reports state that there is a significant risk of terrorism in Cairo and the surrounding areas.
Casablanca, Morocco
A low score for environmental security is specifically due to the lack of a sustainability master plan and the subpar waste management. Although the general crime rate has been mild since 2015, you should still exercise caution as Casablanca is also one of the most dangerous cities.
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Due to its rapidly expanding population, which creates a high-risk area for air pollution and presents a significant risk to public health, Dhaka is one of the most dangerous cities. In addition, Dhaka is regarded as one of the world’s most polluted cities.
Kuwait City, Kuwait
It is typically safe for visitors to go there as long as local rules and customs are observed. Nevertheless, Kuwait is placed extremely high in the index for the threat of terrorism, military conflict, and civil upheaval despite the fact that violence against expats is infrequent there.
Baku, Azerbaijan
In Baku’s city center, muggings do occasionally occur after dark in close proximity to the pubs, clubs, and the dimly lighted entrances of private residences. It is advised that visitors exercise caution, refrain from carrying a lot of cash, and stay away from going for a late solo walk.
Manila, Philippines
Due to its somewhat higher than average crime rate and susceptibility to natural disasters, Manila has a total score of 52.5, making it one of the lowest scorers for personal security. The use of public transit should be done with common sense caution and particular attention due to the high rates of street crime, particularly in the outskirts of the metropolis.
Mumbai, India
Given the size and density of Mumbai, crime is a major issue. As they are more prone to become victims, travelers should avoid traveling alone at night in cabs or on public transportation. It is usually a good idea to keep a watch on your belongings when you are in bustling, congested areas of the city.
Most Dangerous Cities in the World: Final Thoughts
Even though moving can be extremely unsettling, if you’re going to a region with low crime rates, it will undoubtedly put your mind at ease. So, think about staying away from the cities on this list because they have some of the highest crime rates in the whole globe, if that’s a top factor for you.
Of course, no location on earth, not even your current location, can promise perfect protection. Using common sense is the key to personal protection everywhere we go. The fact that some towns will give you a better sense of security than any other seems to be accurate, nevertheless.
By following the recommendations of foreign embassies, you can keep yourself safe in urban areas with high crime rates. For instance, going after midnight can be quite dangerous in several cities with high rates of violent crime. As a result, you should aim to stay home during that period. However, following this advice won’t completely protect you from street crimes. The majority of accidents occur while you are out and about.
Any city has the potential to become one of the most dangerous cities in the world for you, where you end up a victim. In spite of this, no city on earth is completely safe. This means that everywhere you go, you and your family are always at risk.
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