how safe is puerto vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is generally considered safe in 2025, ranking among the top five safest cities in Mexico according to recent surveys and public safety data. Residents have a high sense of security, and the city is a popular, welcoming destination for national and international tourists. Safety efforts include strong local policing, well-lit tourist areas, and community engagement. Violent crimes are rare, especially in tourist zones, with most incidents being petty theft or scams, which can be avoided with normal travel precautions. Cartel violence is largely absent from main tourist areas, as disrupting tourism would hurt local economies. Visitors who avoid risky behaviors like drug use and exploit common sense tend to have very safe experiences. The U.S. State Department rates the broader region at a higher risk level, but this does not reflect the safety conditions in Puerto Vallarta itself, which remains a secure and vibrant travel destination. In summary, Puerto Vallarta in 2025 is safe for travelers when basic precautions are taken, with a low crime rate relative to many other places, and strong tourism-focused safety measures in place.