Is Tijuana safe? Learn about crime in Tijuana, safety tips, dangerous areas, and why it’s called the world’s most violent city. Stay informed!
Why is Tijuana So Dangerous?
Tijuana, Mexico, has one of the highest crime rates in the world. Most violence comes from drug cartels, gangs, and organized crime.
Quick Facts (2024)
- Homicide Rate: 138 murders per 100,000 people (one of the worst globally).
- Main Crimes: Shootings, kidnappings, robberies, and drug trafficking.
- Safest Areas: Zona Río, Playas de Tijuana (tourist zones).
- Most Dangerous Areas: La Sánchez Taboada, El Florido, Zona Norte (avoid at night).
Top 5 Crimes in Tijuana
1. Drug Cartel Violence
- Why? Tijuana is a key route for smuggling drugs into the U.S.
- Gangs Fighting: Cartels like Sinaloa & Jalisco Nueva Generación battle for control.
2. Murders & Shootings
- Most happen in poor neighborhoods.
- Gang disputes & revenge killings are common.
3. Kidnappings & Extortion
- Business owners often get threats to pay “protection money.”
- Express kidnappings (short-term abductions for quick cash) happen.
4. Robberies & Thefts
- Tourists sometimes get robbed in shady areas.
- Carjackings occur, especially at night.
5. Police Corruption
- Some officers work with cartels.
- Tourists should avoid bribes—report issues to the U.S. consulate.
Is Tijuana Safe for Tourists?
✅ Yes, but only in safe zones & with precautions.
Safe Places in Tijuana (For Tourists)
✔ Avenida Revolución (main tourist street, busy & policed).
✔ Zona Río (shopping & restaurants).
✔ Playas de Tijuana (beach area, less crime).
Places to Avoid
❌ Zona Norte (red-light district, high crime).
❌ La Sánchez Taboada (gang territory).
❌ El Florido (dangerous at night).
How to Stay Safe in Tijuana
- Don’t walk alone at night – Use Uber, not taxis.
- Avoid flashing cash/expensive items – Keep phones hidden.
- Stay in tourist zones – Don’t explore unknown areas.
- Don’t buy drugs – Cartels target buyers.
- Know emergency numbers – Dial 911 in Mexico for police.
Why is Tijuana So Violent?
- Border City: Drug smuggling makes it a cartel battleground.
- Poverty & Corruption: Many people turn to crime for money.
- Weak Police: Underfunded & sometimes corrupt.
Crime Comparison: Tijuana vs. Other Cities
| City | Homicides (per 100k) | Main Crime |
|---|---|---|
| Tijuana | 138 | Drug cartels |
| Caracas | 99 | Gang violence |
| Cape Town | 77 | Robberies |
| Chicago | 24 | Gang shootings |
Tijuana is 5x deadlier than Chicago!
Will Tijuana Ever Be Safe?
- The government is trying to reduce crime, but cartels are powerful.
- Tourists can visit safely if they follow rules.
Final Advice
If you visit Tijuana:
✔ Stay in busy areas
✔ Don’t get involved with drugs
✔ Keep emergency contacts saved