Yes—by exercising vigilance, avoiding high-risk areas, and using trusted services, Mexico City can be a safe and vibrant destination for tourists, Americans, solo female travelers, and families alike.
- How Safe Is Mexico City? — Overview & Data
- Neighborhood Safety: Polanco, Condesa, Juárez & Others
- Safety for Americans, Solo Women, Families, Tourists
- Crime & Cartel Risks — Is Mexico City Safe from Cartel Violence?
- Is Uber Safe in Mexico City? Transportation & Airport Insights
- Practical Travel Safety Tips
- FAQ Section
- Luggage Storage Made Easy with Radical Storage
How Safe Is Mexico City? — Overview & Data
Crime rates & comparisons
Mexico City’s homicide rate is around 10 per 100,000, significantly lower than many Latin American capitals— Bogotá (15.2), Lima (7.7), Brasília (6.9), and far below D.C. (27.5). During 2019–2023, homicide rates in the capital fell by roughly 50%, thanks to mayoral security strategies.
However, rising extortion has become a concern: businesses in Mexico City—especially small ones—face increasing threats, with a nearly doubling of extortion in early 2025 and 97% of cases unreported. Additionally, high-profile cartel-linked assassinations—like that of Mayor Brugada’s aides—shook the city’s safe-haven reputation, highlighting evolving security challenges.
Government & advisory outlook
The U.S. State Department currently rates travel to Mexico City at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, advising vigilance—especially at night and outside tourist areas—but does not restrict travel outright. Similarly, Canadian and UK travel alerts echo these cautions.
Neighborhood Safety: Polanco, Condesa, Juárez & Others
- Polanco and Condesa: Frequently cited by travelers and safety guides as very safe, upscale neighborhoods—with international restaurants, parks, and good hotel options.
- Juárez and Centro Histórico: Popular and walkable, but visitors should remain alert—especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing and tourist scams occur.
- Less safe areas: Neighborhoods north of Cerro de la Estrella—like El Molino and Ricardo Flores Magón—have higher risk; avoid walking alone, especially at night.
Safety for Americans, Solo Women, Families, Tourists
- Is Mexico City safe for Americans / American tourists? Generally yes, if you exercise the same precautions you would in any large city and follow official guidance on avoiding high-risk areas.
- Solo female travelers: Sexual harassment is unfortunately common—96% of women have experienced harassment, and 58% have been groped in public spaces. However, the city has introduced safety measures like women-only subway cars and pink buses to enhance security.
- Families and general tourists: With smart planning, Mexico City is safe to visit. Stay in central areas, avoid risky neighborhoods, and stay alert in markets and transport hubs.
Crime & Cartel Risks — Is Mexico City Safe from Cartel Violence?
Cartels like Jalisco New Generation and Sinaloa operate in the city—confirmed by DEA reports—but much of their activity targets politics and local power structures rather than tourists. Targeted violence—like the attack on political officials—raises concerns, but such incidents remain rare in tourist zones. Nonetheless, travelers should stay updated and avoid political flashpoints.
Is Uber Safe in Mexico City? Transportation & Airport Insights
- Uber & ride apps are generally safer than hailing street taxis. Use apps like Uber, DiDi, or Cabify—check the plate and driver details before entering the vehicle.
- Public transport: The Metro is efficient and affordable, but pickpocketing is common. Keep valuables concealed and stay alert.
- Airport safety: While not highlighted as high-risk, airport congestion and occasional flooding can affect operations—recently, torrential rains caused flight suspensions and stranded thousands.
Practical Travel Safety Tips
| Tip | Details |
| Stay central | Choose Polanco, Condesa, or Centro for lodging. Avoid venturing to high-risk zones without guidance. |
| Blend in | Avoid flashy jewelry, designer bags, excessive camera use—practice “low profile” wisdom. |
| Use ride apps at night | Prefer verified apps to random street taxis; check ride details carefully. |
| Plan routes | Use major roads, travel during daylight, avoid dark or unknown areas. |
| Emergency registration | Americans: enroll in STEP. Everyone: share itinerary with trusted contacts. |
| Transport vigil | Watch for flooding or delays (e.g. recent rains caused flight cancellations). |
| Stay informed | Monitor local news and advisories; political protests around gentrification (e.g. in Roma/Condesa) have occurred recently—scan updates before moves. |
FAQ Section
Q: Is Mexico City safe?
A: Yes—if you take basic safety precautions as with any big city.
Q: How safe is Mexico City for tourists?
A: Generally safe in central areas; petty crime is more common than violent crime.
Q: Is Mexico City safe from cartel violence?
A: Cartel activity exists, but assaults on tourists are extremely rare; stay cautious in political zones.
Q: Is Uber safe in Mexico City?
A: Yes, safer than street taxis—verify ride details before boarding.
Q: Is Mexico City airport safe?
A: Airport operations are reliable, but severe weather (e.g. recent flooding) can disrupt flights.
Q: Is it safe to visit right now?
A: As of mid-August 2025, yes—just stay alert, especially following recent protests and weather issues.
Q: Is Mexico City safe for solo female travelers?
A: Solo female travelers should take precautions—use safe transit, avoid late-night solo outings, especially in less crowded areas.
Q: Is Polanco/Condesa safe?
A: Yes—widely regarded as among the safest, most walkable neighborhoods.
Q: Is Juárez Mexico City safe?
A: Generally yes during the day in tourist sections—but be alert for petty crime.
Q: Is it safe to travel with kids?
A: Yes—public areas are well-suited for families; always apply general urban safety measures.
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
A: Tap water is generally not recommended—stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking.
Luggage Storage Made Easy with Radical Storage
Visiting Mexico City is an adventure worth having—and with sensible precautions, it’s safe and rewarding. From Polanco’s elegant boulevards to Condesa’s leafy streets, from cultural gems to vibrant local life, the capital welcomes savvy travelers.
When you’re hopping between museums, markets, or Ciclovía rides like Muévete en Bici, Radical Storage ensures your luggage is securely stored across the city—so you can explore unencumbered. Our international luggage storage network offers:
- Affordable, centrally located drop-off points
- Flexible hours to suit your itinerary
- Easy booking, insured storage, and peace of mind
No more lugging bags or worrying about your belongings—free your hands for discovery.
