Safety

Safety in Argentina

Argentina is one of Latin America's safest countries. The 2025 Latin America Safety Index ranked it third in the region. Buenos Aires, while a major city, has lower crime rates than many US cities.

Crime Statistics

2024 Data:

• Homicide rate: 3.8 per 100,000 (lowest since records began)
• Lower than New York City's 6+ per 100,000
• Buenos Aires not in top 40 most dangerous cities in Americas
• US State Department: Level 1 "Exercise Normal Precautions"

Main Safety Concerns

Petty Theft:

• Phone snatching is common - don't display phones on streets
• Pickpocketing in crowded areas (Subte, markets)
• Bag theft from restaurant chairs/tables
• Motochorro (motorcycle grab-and-go theft)

Distraction Scams:

• Someone "accidentally" spills something on you
• Accomplice offers to help while other steals
• Keep valuables secure, walk away from distractions

Home Security:

• Home invasions occur (cash stored at home)
• Choose buildings with 24/7 portero (doorman)
• Security doors and cameras common

Safe Neighborhoods (Buenos Aires)

Very Safe:

• Palermo (all sub-neighborhoods)
• Recoleta
• Belgrano
• Puerto Madero
• Núñez

Generally Safe:

• San Telmo (main areas)
• Villa Crespo
• Almagro
• Caballito

Exercise Caution:

• La Boca (outside tourist Caminito, especially at night)
• Constitución
• Once
• Some areas south of Av. Rivadavia

Practical Safety Tips

Day-to-Day:

• Don't use phone on street or public transit
• Keep phone in front pocket or secure bag
• Be aware of surroundings, especially at night
• Use ATMs inside banks during business hours
• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry

At Night:

• Stick to main streets and well-lit areas
• Use Uber/taxi instead of walking far
• Palermo, Recoleta safe for evening walks
• Be extra careful leaving bars/clubs late

General:

• Photocopy passport, keep original secured
• Don't carry large amounts of cash
• Use hotel safe for valuables
• Register with your embassy

Emergency Numbers

Comparison to Other Cities

Expats consistently report feeling safer in Buenos Aires than in:

• Most US major cities
• São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro
• Bogotá
• Mexico City

Women's Safety

Buenos Aires is generally safe for solo female travelers:

• Catcalling exists but less aggressive than some countries
• Exercise normal precautions at night
• Women-only taxi services available (app-based)
• Strong feminist movement, awareness of issues