The Reality of Medellin, Colombia Safety | Is it safe to live here? (2024 Update)

The beautiful neighborhood of El Poblado, Medellin, Colombia

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• Historical context

• Current Perspectives

• Unpacking the Safety of Medellin

• Expat Living

• Transportation

• Everyday Safety

• Conclusion

• FAQ’s

Introduction

Medellín, once dubbed the world’s most dangerous city, has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past few decades. The safety here in Medellin is the number one question we get asked most about on our Instagram and TikTok. In this blog, I will unpack everything there is to know, and to not know, about the safety here in Medellin, Colombia. Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia, has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past few decades. Once known as the epicenter of Pablo Escobar’s drug cartel, the city has worked tirelessly to shed its notorious image. Today, Medellin is recognized for its innovation, vibrant culture, and impressive urban development. However, safety concerns remain a topic of discussion for potential residents and expats. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive look at whether Medellin is safe to live in 2024, considering historical context, current perspectives, and practical aspects of daily life. Let’s dive into the heart of Medellín to uncover the truth about its safety in various aspects of daily life.

Medellin’s Historical Background

Rewind a few decades, and Medellín was at the epicenter of the drug violence that gripped Colombia. The city's name was synonymous with cartel wars and high crime rates. Fast forward to today, and you'll find a bustling metropolis famed not for its perilous past, but for its colorful paisa culture, innovation, and inviting climate. Medellin’s history is marked by violence and crime, particularly during the late 20th century. The city was infamously associated with the Medellin Cartel, which led to high crime rates and a reputation for danger. However, the early 21st century saw significant efforts by the local government to combat crime and improve living conditions. Initiatives like the construction of the Metro system, social programs, and urban renewal projects helped to reduce violence and enhance the quality of life for residents. With this, there are more police patrolling what once were the higher crime areas and reducing the crime to alleviate the stress of “is Medellin safe.”

Current Perspectives of Medellin

In 2024, Medellin presents a contrasting image compared to its past. The city has earned accolades for its innovative approach to urban development and social inclusion. The annual homicide rate has decreased significantly from its peak in the 1990s, and neighborhoods that were once no-go zones are now bustling with life and business.

However, like any major city, Medellin still faces challenges such as petty crime, economic disparities, and occasional instances of violence. Local perspectives often emphasize that while Medellin is much safer than it used to be, it’s important for residents and visitors to remain vigilant and informed about their surroundings. The truth about it is, that every major city has crime, and Medellin is no different. The biggest difference is that Medellin has much less crime than most major cities but Medellin gets publicized for it.

Unpacking the Safety of Medellin

• Crime Rates: While violent crime has decreased, petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams are still common, especially in tourist areas. This type of crime is common in every city in the world so the best advice is to be aware of your surroundings at all times!

• Police Presence: The city has a visible police presence, particularly in high-traffic areas, which helps deter crime. Heavier police presence has also been presented in touristy areas that used to be “no-go” areas and have cleaned up the areas quite a bit!

• Community Programs: Various community initiatives aim to integrate marginalized populations and reduce crime through education and employment opportunities.

• Technology and Surveillance: Medellin has invested in technology such as CCTV cameras and emergency response systems to enhance public safety.

• THE GOLDEN RULE: The number one advice we could give any foreigner or local, is to stay away from the bad things (drugs, prostitution). This doesn’t mean you can’t go out and drink and have fun, but it is necessary to watch your drinks and how the people you talk to in bars or clubs are treating you. Don’t ever take a drink from someone and watch the bartender make your drink if possible.

• Don’t go on dating apps: Seriously, just don’t. This is the number one way to get yourself in a position you don’t want to be in!

Expat Living in Medellin

Medellin has become a popular destination for expats due to its affordable cost of living, pleasant climate, and welcoming community. Many expats live in neighborhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado, which are known for their safety and amenities.

There are active expat communities that provide support and social opportunities, making the transition to living in Medellin smoother. However, expats are advised to learn Spanish, familiarize themselves with local customs, and stay aware of safety advisories. For those who are not strong Spanish speakers, there are plenty of services that are English speaking. This will make your life adjusting here so much easier! We advise to join expat Facebook groups here because they are so helpful and you can meet so many new people that are in the same boat as you!

Transportation

Medellin boasts one of the most efficient public transportation systems in Latin America. The Metro, MetroCable, buses, and tram provide extensive coverage of the city, making it easy to travel safely. The Metro system is particularly noted for its cleanliness and safety. The whole city strives to keep it this way, so if you use the Metro, do not eat or drink!

However, caution is advised when using taxis or ride-hailing services, especially at night. It’s recommended to use reputable services and verify the vehicle and driver details before entering. Our recommendation is to stick with Uber. Uber is in a gray area in Colombia and if you would like to learn more, then read “Is Uber legal in Colombia” blog to get the full scoop! Yellow Taxi’s are safe and we have taken them many times, but not recommended at night. White taxi’s are airport taxis or special services taxis and are safe because they are registered to the Ministry of Transportation but they tend to be a little more expensive for that reason. Yellow taxi’s are registered as well, but to get the permits for a white taxi, it is much more expensive.

Everyday Safety in Medellin

Living safely in Medellin involves adopting common-sense practices:

• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local news and safety advisories. Register for STEP to stay up to date from the Bogota Embassy about whatever is happening in Colombia.

• Avoid High-Risk Areas: Some areas of the city, particularly on the outskirts, may still have higher crime rates. You would have to go out of your way to find these places, FYI. Research local advice can help identify these zones. These places you will have to go way out of your way to find, so I wouldn’t worry too much about going into higher risk neighborhoods.

• Secure Personal Belongings: Use anti-theft bags and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. It is advised to use a fanny pack rather than a traditional purse. There is a saying in Colombia, “No dar Papaya,” which means “don’t give opportunity.”

• Blend In: Now, this might be hard for most tourists as they are easy to spot to a local but a couple things to keep in mind are: avoid displaying wealth or expensive items that could attract unwanted attention. This could mean your gold necklace or Rolex watch. Remember, NO DAR PAPAYA!

Conclusion

Medellin has made remarkable strides in improving safety and quality of life over the past few decades. While it is not without its challenges, many residents and expats find it a vibrant, welcoming city with much to offer. By staying informed, adopting safety measures, and engaging with the community, living in Medellin can be a rewarding experience. Everything mentioned in this blog also applies to tourists! While no city is without its challenges, Medellín’s transformation and ongoing efforts make it a desirable and safe place for both locals and expatriates. Whether you're considering a visit or a permanent move, Medellín welcomes you warmly into its ever-evolving embrace.

FAQ’s

Is Medellin safe for tourists?

• Yes, many tourists visit Medellin without incident, but it’s important to stay in safe areas and be mindful of your surroundings.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Medellin?

• El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado are considered some of the safest neighborhoods for both locals and expats.

Can I use public transportation safely in Medellin?

• Yes, Medellin’s public transportation system is generally safe, especially the Metro. Exercise caution with taxis and ride-hailing services.

Is it necessary to speak Spanish in Medellin?

• While many people in tourist areas speak some English, learning Spanish will greatly enhance your experience and safety in Medellin.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

• Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and locations of nearby hospitals and police stations. The general emergency number in Colombia is 123.