Albania Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Albania
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated December 31, 2024
Albania recorded 1.4 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is low by global standards. That places Albania #132 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Europe average of 1.6 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have fallen 67% over the past decade (from 4.3 in 2013). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Albania at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
1.4 /100k
Safety Rank
#64 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2023
Homicide Rate Trend (1992-2023)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 67% over the past decade (from 4.3 in 2013). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Albania Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Albania, the homicide rate for men is 2.3× higher than the rate for women — 1.9 vs 0.8 per 100,000 (2023).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Albania:
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise increased caution in Albania due to crime . Country Summary : Law enforcement's ability to protect and assist travelers is limited in some areas, especially in remote regions. There has been targeted violence associated with illicit drug networks and organized crime countrywide. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings and the extent of police and emergency services in their area. Read the country information page for additional information to Albania.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Albania
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated December 31, 2024).
Terrorism
Some terrorist groups, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are using less sophisticated methods of attack. Those include knives, firearms, and vehicles to target crowds. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security and to take special caution at: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime
Street crime occurs in urban areas, mostly at night. Burglaries, theft, and domestic violence are most common. U.S. citizens can become victims due to circumstance or proximity. Anti-American sentiment is rare in Albania and the international community is generally well regarded. Attacks involving small improvised explosive devices (IEDs) occur often and are usually connected to disputes related to organized crime or drug trafficking. U.S. citizens should remain vigilant when parking in unattended parking areas. Avoid parking overnight in non-secure areas and inspect vehicles for suspicious items. If you find something strange, do not tamper with it. Contact the Albanian Police immediately. Carjacking is rare in Albania, but vehicle theft may occur. Make sure your vehicle is locked and keep your possessions well hidden in the trunk.
Demonstrations
occur frequently. Protests are generally peaceful but have become violent in the past. Molotov cocktails are common during demonstrations, though they are generally thrown at buildings and not people. Demonstrations and protests may take place in response to: political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Be aware of your surroundings: Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
International Financial Scams
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.
Victims of Crime
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 or 129 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(355) 4 224 7285. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should seek medical attention if needed and are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . The Embassy may be able to assist crime victims with the following: Help you find appropriate medical care. Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation. Follow the investigation until its conclusion. Provide a list of local attorneys. Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S . Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated, but rules may be unevenly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signs. In the event of an injury, access to appropriate medical treatment may be sporadic due to limited hours or physical distances. Outside metropolitan areas, it may take more time to reach first responders or medical professionals who can provide assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Albania Population & Demographics
Population of 2,377,128, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Albania safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Albania at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 1.4 per 100,000 is low by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Albania?
Albania has an intentional homicide rate of 1.4 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #132 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Albania?
Albania is currently at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Albania compare to other countries?
Albania's homicide rate of 1.4 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.