10 Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico 2024, Latest Data

Every year Mexico attracts approximately 42 million international tourists, with many choosing the Mexican Caribbean—widely regarded as one of the safest destinations in the country.

The United States remains the leading source market, accounting for over 13.5 million air travelers annually, followed by Canada with around 2.5 million. Other growing markets include Colombia, the United Kingdom and Spain.

Official U.S. Travel Advisory

The U.S. State Department updated its travel advisories for all the Mexican states in September 2024. Here are the states that you should avoid or reconsider visiting due to high levels of violent crime.

Do not travel to:

Reconsider travel to:

10 Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico According to Homicide Rate

Methodology Explained

The data collection and selection process is based on a national heat map by Mexican data scientist Diego Valle-Jones. This map visualizes homicide rates across individual cities based on statistics from the Mexican Justice System over the past twelve months. The dataset was filtered to include only cities with populations exceeding 100,000, as smaller populations can produce outliers due to limited sample sizes.

10. Tijuana, Baja California

Just a 30-minute drive separates San Diego from the stunning Tijuana beaches. In the past, this destination was a favorite among Americans, but tourist numbers have been decreasing due to a significant increase in drug trafficking activities.

As a result, the homicide rate has surged to 80.8 deaths per 100,000 residents.

9. Zamora, Michoacán

Since 2021, Zamora in the state of Michoacán has consistently ranked among the most violent cities in Mexico, with a homicide rate of 91.6 per 100,000 inhabitants in a population of 108,000.

This alarming level of violence is primarily driven by conflicts among local drug cartels, notably the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which controls the region.

8. Tecate, Baja California

With a population of approximately 112,000, Tecate, Baja California—another border city—has experienced a staggering 146.9% rise in intentional homicides, according to official data.

This sharp rise is linked to violent clashes between drug cartels, including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the deadly Sinaloa Cartel.

Travelers are strongly advised to exercise caution and stay updated on local conditions before crossing the border.

7. Yautepec de Zaragoza, Morelos

Yautepec de Zaragoza is a popular destination located just a short drive from Mexico City. Unfortunately, the city currently has a homicide rate of 97.2 per 100,000 residents.

Once again, this level of violence is the result of clashes among criminal groups operating in the area.

American and other international visitors should remain vigilant and keep informed about local news both before traveling and during their trip.

6. Cuatla, Morelos

Cuautla, another city in Morelos, ranks among the most dangerous destinations in the country, with its 192,000 residents facing a homicide rate of 113.1 per 100,000 people.

This number of deaths has been attributed to conflicts among criminal organizations operating in the region. Recent reports of kidnappings and violent crimes have further heightened safety concerns, prompting international agencies to recommend caution.

To reduce risks, stay away from remote or high-risk areas and prioritize traveling during daylight hours, which can significantly reduce potential kidnappings.

5. Villa de Álvarez, Colima

Located in the Mexican state of Colima, this city has a homicide rate of 114 per 100,000 inhabitants within a population of 158,000.

This figure places Villa de Álvarez among the most dangerous destinations in the country. As in many other Mexican cities, organized crime is the leading driver of violence.

Visitors are strongly advised to increase caution, avoid unfamiliar areas after dark and stay up-to-date about local advisories to ensure a safer trip.

4. Temixco, Morelos

This municipality, relatively close to Mexico City, struggles with a homicide rate of 115 per 100,000 residents, reflecting the risks travelers may encounter when visiting this municipality.

Much of the violence stems from territorial disputes among criminal organizations. Visitors are advised to avoid secluded areas and limit unnecessary outings at night.

Keep in mind that crimes such as armed robberies and random shootings can happen in this city without notice. To minimize risks, visitors should stick to well-populated areas and plan their trip carefully before traveling.

3. Apatzingán, Michoacán

Apatzingán, in the state of Michoacán, faces a concerning homicide rate of 128.3 per 100,000 residents, making the city the third most dangerous place in the country.

In recent years, the destination has become the home of deadly drug cartels and a key hub for methamphetamine production, which fuels violence and instability.

Authorities currently work on strategies to curb cartel influence, but safety challenges still persist. This forces travelers to keep their guard up at all times.

2. San Luis, Sonora

San Luis, Sonora, located just south of Yuma, Arizona, often draws American visitors who may overlook safety concerns due to its proximity.

Despite this, with a population of 209,000, this city has a homicide rate of 128.5 per 100,000 inhabitants, making it the second most dangerous city for international travelers in Mexico.

Its easy access to the United States facilitates smuggling and drug trafficking by criminal groups, increasing risks for visitors.

1. Manzanillo, Colima

This time around, Manzanillo, in the state of Colima, has earned the grim distinction of becoming Mexico’s most dangerous city for travelers in 2025, with a staggering homicide rate of 134 per 100,000 residents.

Contrary to what one might assume, Manzanillo is far from abandoned. In fact, it serves as a major shipping port and domestic air travel hub, and that’s exactly what makes it a critical hotspot for cartel activity.