Puerto Vallarta Returns to the Top-10 List of Mexico’s Safest Cities After Falling Earlier This Year

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, has reclaimed its spot as one of the safest cities in Mexico, ranking fifth in the latest results of the National Urban Public Security Survey (ENSU). Released today, October 21, 2024, by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), the survey highlights the city’s resurgence in public perception after having dropped out of the top ten in previous quarters. The results reflect how residents in 91 cities perceive safety in their urban environments, offering valuable insights into public security sentiment across Mexico.

Public Perception and National Trends

According to the ENSU report, 58.6% of the population aged 18 and over across the surveyed cities expressed feeling unsafe in their cities in September 2024. This represents a slight improvement compared to September 2023, when 61.4% of residents reported insecurity. However, the change between June and September 2024 (59.4% vs. 58.6%) was not statistically significant. Despite these marginal fluctuations, Puerto Vallarta managed to climb back into the top ten safest cities, signaling a positive shift in local residents’ perception of security.

Puerto Vallarta’s Standing

Puerto Vallarta ranked fifth, with 21.3% of the city’s residents perceiving their city as unsafe, a notable distinction compared to other Mexican cities. This marks a significant improvement in the city’s safety ranking, which had declined in previous quarters. Puerto Vallarta’s return to the top rankings can be attributed to ongoing efforts to enhance public security measures, a factor that has resonated with the local population. Last quarter’s survey had Puerto Vallarta with a 29% of the population feeling unsafe.

The Safest Cities in Mexico

Leading the survey as the safest city in Mexico is San Pedro Garza García in the state of Nuevo León, where only 13.7% of the population expressed concerns about insecurity. It was followed by Benito Juárez, a district of Mexico City, with 17.5%, and Tampico, Tamaulipas, with 20%. The fourth position was claimed by Piedras Negras, Coahuila, where 20.2% of the population reported feeling unsafe. Puerto Vallarta came in just behind, and Saltillo, Coahuila, rounded out the top six with 21.7%.

The top six safest cities, according to residents, are:

1. San Pedro Garza García (13.7%)
2. Benito Juárez (17.5%)
3. Tampico (20.0%)
4. Piedras Negras (20.2%)
5. Puerto Vallarta (21.3%)
6. Saltillo (21.7%)

Percentages represent the percentage of residents who feel unsafe in their city.

The Most Insecure Cities in Mexico

At the other end of the spectrum, the ENSU revealed the cities where residents felt the most unsafe. Topping this list was Tapachula, Chiapas, with an alarming 91.9% of the population expressing concerns about security. Naucalpan de Juárez in the State of Mexico followed, with 88.0% of its residents feeling unsafe, while Fresnillo, Zacatecas, closely trailed with 87.9%. Ecatepec de Morelos, Irapuato, and Tuxtla Gutiérrez also ranked among the cities where insecurity was most acutely felt.

The top six most insecure cities, according to residents, are:

1. Tapachula (91.9%)
2. Naucalpan de Juárez (88.0%)
3. Fresnillo (87.9%)
4. Ecatepec de Morelos (87.0%)
5. Irapuato (86.4%)
6. Tuxtla Gutiérrez (85.9%)

Survey Methodology

The ENSU survey is conducted quarterly by INEGI and aims to gauge public perception of security in urban areas across Mexico. Unlike crime statistics, which provide data on actual criminal activities, this survey focuses solely on how residents feel about the security in their city. The results are pivotal in shaping public policies and guiding local authorities to address the concerns of their populations.

The survey results are based on responses from adults living in 91 cities across Mexico, offering a comprehensive overview of how public security is perceived nationwide. The data, collected between June and September 2024, highlights a critical aspect of security in Mexico: that the feeling of safety or insecurity is often influenced by various factors beyond just crime rates.

Implications for Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s rise to the fifth position among Mexico’s safest cities is a welcome development for both residents and the local tourism industry. Known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural scene, Puerto Vallarta has long been a top destination for both national and international tourists. This boost in perceived safety may enhance the city’s appeal, reinforcing its status as a prime vacation spot and a desirable place to live.

Local authorities in Puerto Vallarta have continued to focus on improving public safety, investing in law enforcement, and addressing the concerns of residents and visitors alike. The positive shift in the public’s perception of security reflects these efforts, which have contributed to the city’s renewed reputation as one of Mexico’s safest places.

As the latest ENSU report highlights, Puerto Vallarta’s fifth-place ranking among Mexico’s safest cities represents a significant achievement. While perceptions of security vary across the country, Puerto Vallarta has managed to foster a sense of safety and security that resonates with its residents, setting a positive example for other urban centers in Mexico.

With public perception of safety playing a critical role in shaping the future of Mexican cities, Puerto Vallarta’s focus on maintaining and enhancing security could continue to drive its upward trajectory in future surveys, benefiting both locals and visitors alike.