Are you wondering what the safest cities in Mexico are?
While Mexico often makes headlines for crime, the truth is more balanced. Many areas remain peaceful, vibrant, and welcoming to visitors. Beyond the headlines, several Mexican cities consistently rank among the safest in Latin America.
The following list is based on official crime statistics, law enforcement data, and feedback from both locals and travelers. Each of these destinations is considered secure for visitors who take normal travel precautions.
1. Mérida
Mérida regularly tops safety rankings in Mexico and across the Americas. According to CEO Magazine, only Quebec, Canada, scores higher for safety in the region. As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida benefits from strong public investment in infrastructure and policing.
The city’s charm lies in its mix of history and hospitality. Visit landmarks like the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, explore nearby Mayan ruins, and enjoy local Yucatecan dishes. Cultural life is thriving too, with daily free art and music events that celebrate local traditions.
2. San Miguel de Allende
In 2020, San Miguel de Allende earned the Safe Travels Stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council, recognizing its commitment to health and safety. It was also the first inland Mexican city to achieve this distinction. More than 17,000 expatriates live here, a testament to its comfort and security.
UNESCO lists San Miguel de Allende as a World Heritage Site. The city is known for its colonial architecture, art galleries, and festivals, including Día de los Locos and the International Jazz Festival. The iconic pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is one of Mexico’s most photographed landmarks.
3. Oaxaca
Oaxaca City is one of the safest large cities in southern Mexico. Popular areas like Zócalo, the 20 de Noviembre Market, and Santo Domingo Church are especially well-policed and welcoming to tourists.
Known as Mexico’s culinary capital, Oaxaca is where many of the country’s best-known dishes originated, including tlayudas, mole sauces, and roasted chapulines. The city’s cultural calendar is packed, with Día de los Muertos among its most famous celebrations. UNESCO recognizes its historic center as a World Heritage Site.
A basic knowledge of Spanish helps here, as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas.
4. Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen has grown rapidly thanks to its strong international appeal and relative safety. Quinta Avenida, its main pedestrian street, attracts visitors from around the world. Modern apartments, yoga studios, and cafes line the streets, and beaches are just a short walk away.
Police patrols are common in tourist zones. While occasional corruption remains an issue in Mexico, serious incidents are rare in central Playa del Carmen. Visitors can safely enjoy beach life, nightlife, and cultural activities with standard awareness.
5. Cozumel
Cozumel, about 20 kilometers from Playa del Carmen, is Mexico’s largest island and one of its safest tourist destinations. Its isolation adds to its security while offering incredible scenery and outdoor experiences.
The island’s coral reefs make it a global hotspot for diving and snorkeling. History lovers can explore Mayan heritage sites, while those seeking peace will enjoy its calm, less-crowded beaches. Cozumel is perfect for travelers looking for both safety and serenity.
6. Valladolid
Valladolid is often overlooked by tourists who stop here only when visiting Chichen Itzá, but it deserves much more attention. This small Yucatán city is quiet, colorful, and safe to explore even at night.
Mayan culture still shapes daily life here, from traditional dances to handmade crafts. Stroll along Calzada de los Frailes, admire the pastel-colored colonial homes, and visit nearby cenotes for a refreshing swim. Valladolid combines heritage with a strong sense of community and security.
7. La Paz
Located in Baja California Sur, La Paz is among the safest coastal cities in Mexico. The Malecon waterfront is especially well-patrolled, and tourist police are visible throughout the area. The local airport also makes travel convenient for visitors.
La Paz is famous for its turquoise beaches, including Playa Balandra and Tecolote Beach. Outdoor enthusiasts can swim with whale sharks in nearby bays or visit Isla Espíritu Santo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its marine biodiversity.
8. Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta ranks among Mexico’s safest major resort cities, with a crime rate lower than many U.S. cities. Authorities have invested heavily in technology and community policing, including extensive surveillance systems and rapid-response protocols.
The city blends modern amenities with traditional charm. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, cobblestone streets, and art galleries attract culture lovers, while the beaches and nightlife cater to all kinds of travelers. Puerto Vallarta is also recognized for its inclusivity, welcoming the LGBTQ+ community with open arms.
9. Los Cabos
Los Cabos refers to two towns—San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas—connected by a scenic 20-mile corridor. Both are safe, upscale destinations that attract international tourists and celebrities alike.
Cabo San Lucas is known for its lively beach scene, while San José del Cabo offers art galleries, golf courses, and fine dining. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from whale watching to diving, in a well-protected environment. Just be mindful of the strong sun and warm climate.
10. Ensenada
Located near the California border, Ensenada is easily accessible from the U.S. and has an excellent reputation for safety. Surveys show high public trust in local law enforcement.
Ensenada offers beaches like Playa Sur and Playa Chapultepec, a major cruise port, and some of the best seafood in Mexico. It is also the gateway to Valle de Guadalupe, the country’s top wine region often called the “Napa Valley of Mexico.”
While Ensenada is pricier than most Mexican cities, it remains affordable compared to U.S. destinations.
11. Mexico City
Once known for its high crime rates, Mexico City has transformed dramatically over the past decade. Major reforms, better lighting, and an expanded police presence have improved safety across most neighborhoods.
Tourist-friendly areas include Polanco, Condesa, Coyoacán, and Roma Norte. Visitors can explore world-class museums, restaurants, and parks without concern. However, it is best to avoid Tepito, Iztapalapa, Ecatepec, Neza, and Doctores, where crime remains a concern.
12. Tulum
Tulum has grown from a quiet beach town into one of Mexico’s trendiest destinations. Despite its popularity, it maintains a relatively low crime rate, especially in resort and downtown zones.
Visitors enjoy the mix of white-sand beaches, Mayan ruins, and eco-friendly resorts. Security patrols are frequent, and most reported issues involve minor thefts rather than violent crime. As always, basic caution with belongings goes a long way.
13. Puebla
Puebla, southeast of Mexico City, is another destination with a strong safety record. The city combines rich colonial history with a growing modern infrastructure. It is best known for its UNESCO-listed historic center and local dishes such as mole poblano.
Puebla’s police visibility, clean streets, and reliable public transport make it a comfortable choice for travelers who want to experience authentic Mexican culture without safety concerns.
Final Thoughts
Despite Mexico’s mixed reputation, many of its cities are as safe as popular destinations in Europe or North America. Mérida, San Miguel de Allende, and Oaxaca, in particular, have earned global recognition for their security, hospitality, and quality of life.
Travelers should still follow standard safety practices—like avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables out of sight—but in these cities, the risks are minimal. The real danger might be that you never want to leave.