Tijuana’s homicide rate fell by more than 25 percent in 2025, This dropped the city from its longtime position among the five most violent municipalities in the world. Moreover, the decline continued into the first quarter of 2026. The homicide rate decreased from 105.12 to 91.76 per 100,000 residents. According to the 24th Municipal Administration, other violent crimes also dropped by nearly a third. This includes armed robbery, carjacking, and assault with a weapon. The decline in Tijuana homicides marks a meaningful improvement for safety in the region.
The improvement has not been evenly distributed across the city. In fact, roughly 20 percent of all homicides remain concentrated in just 10 of Tijuana’s approximately 850 neighborhoods. Camino Verde led with 75 homicides, followed by Zona Norte with 49 and Zona Centro with 32. The eastern colonias along the Alamar river channel continue to see elevated violence tied to drug distribution disputes. However, tourist-facing areas like Zona Río, Playas de Tijuana, and Avenida Revolucion have experienced sharper declines.
How Tijuana Is Improving Homicide Rates and Safety
Overall, the reduction in Tijuana homicides reflects a broader commitment to safety that benefits both residents and visitors.
Additionally, a centerpiece of the city’s security strategy is a new body camera program. The city purchased 400 body-worn cameras in the initial procurement. Specifically, the first 150 units were deployed to motorcycle patrol officers in the highest-crime sectors. Ultimately, the goal is to equip all 1,600 active-duty municipal officers with cameras by the end of 2026. In addition, the city has expanded its network of advanced surveillance cameras in high-crime intersections, integrated a multi-agency coordination center linking local, state, and federal law enforcement data systems, and launched youth opportunity programs in vulnerable neighborhoods aimed at providing alternatives to cartel recruitment. Residents can report suspicious activity or request increased patrols through the city’s 911 emergency line or the anonymous tip line at 089.