Germany Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Germany
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated May 13, 2025
Germany recorded 0.9 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Germany #155 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 has stayed rare over the past decade (0.8 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.9 today). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Germany at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
0.9 /100k
Safety Rank
#41 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2023
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2023)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.8 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.9 today). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Germany Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Germany, the homicide rate for men is 1.1× higher than the rate for women — 0.9 vs 0.9 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 Germany:
Reissued after periodic review with updates to Advisory Summary. Exercise increased caution in Germany due to terrorism . Advisory Summary: Terrorist groups and lone actors remain a constant threat in Germany and Europe, attacking people in public locations with knives, small arms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Germany
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated Unavailable).
Emergency numbers
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Dial 112 for ambulance services. Dial 110 for the police. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at +49-30-8305-0 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities).
Terrorism
Credible information indicates terrorist groups and individuals radicalized or inspired by terrorist organizations and Jihadi ideology remain a persistent threat in Germany and Europe. European governments are acting to prevent terrorist attacks. However, all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. Terrorist attacks from groups and radicalized individuals aim to attack U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles. Terrorists may target crowds at: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Tourist sites Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)
Crime
Violent crime is rare in Germany but can occur. It is more common in larger cities, large metropolitan subway systems, and in train stations. Most crimes occur during late night or early morning hours. Most incidents of street crime involve the theft of unattended items and pickpocketing. Theft and pickpocketing mainly happen at train stations and on public transport. They also occur at tourist spots and large public events. Always pay close attention to your valuables. Stay aware of your surroundings. Exercise caution when gathering in popular expatriate hangouts. Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. They are illegal to bring back into the United States. You could also be breaking local law.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays (German Labor Day on May 1), and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Demonstration organizers must get approval from the police first. Authorities usually watch over the participants. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. Strikes may interfere with travel plans. We strongly encourage travelers to check transportation schedule information before travel.
International financial scams
Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help . Financial scams are common in Germany. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. Tips to avoid scammers: Look for red flags. These include asking to meet in a faraway location, or a new social media profile. Beware if the relationship is moving too quickly or if they ask for money. Do a reverse image search on the profile picture. If they ask for help, refer them instead to the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer. Common scams include: People claiming to be U.S.
Technology use abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, and damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without the safety consideration. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Victims of crime
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Dial 112 for ambulance services. Dial 110 for the police. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Berlin at +49-30-8305-0 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). Review our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: 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 and following its conclusion. Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Domestic violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the embassy for assistance. Dial 110 for emergencies. Dial 030 8305 0 (within Germany) or dial 01149 30 8305 0 for calls originating from the United States for the Berlin Embassy. Dial 069 7535 0 (within Germany) or dial 01149 69 7535 0 for calls originating from the United States for the Frankfurt Consulate General. Dial 089 2888 0 from within Germany or dial 011 49 89 2888 0 for calls originating from the United States for the Munich Consulate General.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated. Rules about general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Natural disasters
Germany sometimes experiences extreme weather conditions including: Floods Long periods of drought Unusually harsh winters with vast amounts of snow, even in urban areas.
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.
Germany Population & Demographics
Population of 83,516,593, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Germany safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Germany at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 0.9 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Germany?
Germany has an intentional homicide rate of 0.9 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #155 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Germany?
Germany 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 Germany compare to other countries?
Germany's homicide rate of 0.9 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.