Crime Rates in Mexico: A Closer Look at the Statistics

July 1, 2025 Carlos Hernandez

Mexico, renowned for its rich culture and history, has unfortunately been experiencing significant challenges related to crime. From drug-related violence to homicides and kidnappings, the rise in drug cartels, fentanyl production, and methamphetamine trafficking has deeply impacted both urban and rural areas. This article takes a closer look at the crime trends, focusing on the murder rates, kidnapping figures, and drug violence in Mexico City, Jalisco, and other affected regions, while exploring security measures and their effectiveness in combating violence.

Crime rates in Mexico continue to spark concern, impacting both urban and rural communities. Issues of security and prevention remain central, as the fear of murders, deaths, and street violence grows. The influence of the drug market—including marijuana, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine—is evident in both local and global trends. Areas like Mexico City and Jalisco are particularly affected. Journalists, politicians, and the majority of citizens face threats. Figures show a troubling rise, with conflicts tied to production, markets, and U.S. demand. Understanding the place, market, and average risk is vital to addressing these complex challenges.

Table of Contents

Homicide Rates in Mexico

The homicide rate in Mexico is significantly higher than the homicide rate in the United States. In 2022, the homicide rate in Mexico was 26.6 per 100,000 people.

This represents a 4.3% decrease from 2021. The homicide rate in the United States is 7 per 100,000 people, much lower than the homicide rate in Mexico.

The states with the highest homicide rates in Mexico are Guerrero (64.6 per 100,000 people), Michoacan (57.3 per 100,000 people), and Baja California Sur (53.1 per 100,000 people).

The states with the lowest homicide rates in Mexico are Chiapas (1.5 per 100,000 people), Quintana Roo (2.3 per 100,000 people), and Campeche (2.5 per 100,000 people).

Drug cartels primarily drive the homicide rate in Mexico. The cartels are fighting for control of drug trafficking routes, and this violence often spills over into civilian areas. The homicide rate in Mexico has been on the rise in recent years, but it has shown some signs of improvement in the last few years.

The Mexican government has taken several measures to address the crime problem, including increasing the number of police officers and military personnel deployed to areas affected by violence, cracking down on corruption within law enforcement agencies, and investing in social programs to address the root causes of violence.

Here are some additional details about the homicide rates in Mexico:

The homicide rate in Mexico has been on the rise in recent years, but it has shown some signs of improvement in the last few years. The homicide rate decreased by 4.3% in 2022.
The homicide rate in Mexico varies from state to state. The states with the highest homicide rates are located in the southwestern part of the country, along the border with the United States. These states are home to several drug cartels responsible for much of the violence in Mexico.
The homicide rate against tourists in Mexico is very low. It is much lower than the homicide rate in many other countries. However, there have been a few cases of tourists being murdered in Mexico, usually in areas with high levels of violence.

It is important to note that the homicide rate in Mexico is still much higher than the homicide rate in the United States. The homicide rate in the United States is 7 per 100,000 people, while the homicide rate in Mexico is 26.6 per 100,000.

When travelling to Mexico, it is important to be aware of the homicide rate and to take precautions to stay safe. Some tips for staying safe in Mexico include:

Stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.
Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables.
If you are robbed, do not resist.
Report any crimes to the police as soon as possible.

Kidnapping Rates in Mexico

The kidnapping rate in Mexico is also significantly higher than in the United States. In 2022, the kidnapping rate in Mexico was 0.3 per 100,000 people. This represents a 20% decrease from 2021.

The kidnapping rate in the United States is 0.03 per 100,000 people, much lower than that in Mexico.

The states with the highest kidnapping rates in Mexico are Guerrero (1.3 per 100,000 people), Michoacan (0.9 per 100,000 people), and Baja California Sur (0.7 per 100,000 people).

The states with the lowest kidnapping rates in Mexico are Chiapas (0.1 per 100,000 people), Quintana Roo (0.2 per 100,000 people), and Campeche (0.2 per 100,000 people).

Drug cartels primarily drive the kidnapping rate in Mexico. The cartels kidnap people for ransom, and this crime often spills over into civilian areas.

The kidnapping rate in Mexico has been on the rise in recent years, but it has shown some signs of improvement in the last few years.

Here are some additional details about the kidnapping rates in Mexico:

The kidnapping rate in Mexico has been on the rise in recent years, but it has shown some signs of improvement in the last few years. The kidnapping rate decreased by 20% in 2022.
The kidnapping rate in Mexico varies from state to state. The states with the highest kidnapping rates are located in the southwestern part of the country, along the border with the United States. These states are home to several drug cartels responsible for much of the violence in Mexico.
The kidnapping rate against tourists in Mexico is very low. It is much lower than the kidnapping rate in many other countries. However, there have been a few cases of tourists being kidnapped in Mexico, usually in areas with high levels of violence.

Despite a recent 4.3% decline in crime statistics, Mexico’s homicide rate in 2022 remained significantly higher than that of the United States—26.6 per 100,000 people compared to 7 per 100,000—largely driven by cartel-related violence concentrated in specific states.

Here is some prudent advice for staying safe in Mexico:

Avoid travelling to areas with high levels of violence.
Do not travel alone, especially at night.
Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables.
If you are kidnapped, do not resist.
Report any crimes to the police as soon as possible.

It is also important to note that the Mexican government is taking steps to address the issue of kidnapping.

The government has increased the number of police officers and military personnel deployed to areas affected by abduction, and it has also taken steps to crack down on corruption within law enforcement agencies.

The government is also working to improve social programs to address the root causes of kidnapping, such as poverty and inequality.

Drug-Related Violence in Mexico

Drug-related violence remains one of the most pressing issues in Mexico. The increasing demand for cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana in the U.S. market fuels fierce battles between cartels. As drug production increases, Jalisco has become a key player in the global narcotics trade, while Guerrero and Michoacán are often caught in the crossfire.

Drug-Related Homicides:

33,341 drug-related homicides in 2022 (15% decrease from 2021)
Main States Affected:
Guerrero
Michoacán
Baja California Sur

Cartel Conflicts:

Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and Sinaloa Cartel are at the forefront of these violent conflicts, especially over fentanyl and methamphetamine production.
Increasing violence in rural and urban areas as cartels expand their control.

Government Measures:

Increasing security forces in rural and urban areas to tackle cartel power.
A focus on improving prevention efforts to reduce drug addiction and the impact of fentanyl in the region.
Enhanced cross-border collaboration with the U.S. to curb the flow of drugs and arms.

Here are some additional details about drug-related violence in Mexico:

The violence is primarily driven by drug cartel competition for drug trafficking routes.
The violence often spills into civilian areas, with innocent people killed or injured.
The violence has hurt the economy, tourism, and investment in Mexico.

The Mexican government is facing several challenges in its efforts to address drug-related violence. These challenges include:

The power and resources of the drug cartels.
The corruption and impunity that exist within law enforcement agencies.
The lack of social programs to address the root causes of violence.

Despite the challenges, the Mexican government is committed to addressing drug-related violence. The government is working to strengthen its law enforcement agencies, enhance its intelligence capabilities, and combat corruption. The government is also investing in social programs to address the root causes of violence.

FAQs

1. Which regions in Mexico have seen a decrease in murder rates, and how does this affect travellers’ perception of safety?

The regions of Guanajuato, Chihuahua, and Tamaulipas have recently witnessed a decline in the murder rate. While these areas still have concerns, this decline improves the overall safety image for travelers.

However, travellers should access the latest data and information before planning their trip, particularly to neighbourhoods and towns known as hotspots for organized crime, such as those associated with the Sinaloa Cartel.

2. How does the murder rate in Durango and Guanajuato compare globally?

Durango and Guanajuato, like several cities in Mexico, have had varying murder rates. Compared to cities in Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador, the rates can be higher or lower depending on the year and the impact of organized crime groups. Checking updated information and data for each city and region is crucial before drawing comparisons.

3. What do people in Zacatecas and Colima think of the justice system’s handling of crime?

As in other regions, the inhabitants of cities like Zacatecas and Colima often have mixed views on the justice system’s response.

While some feel that there has been a concerted effort to address crimes, others believe there’s still a long way to go, especially given the presence of organized crime members and the services provided to victims.

Comparatively, the response can vary significantly across regions, influenced by factors such as local governance, the influence of organized crime, and the availability of resources.

Supporting Article

Mexico’s Drug Cartels