Estonia Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Estonia
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Normal Precautions
Updated March 31, 2026
Estonia recorded 1.5 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is low by global standards. That places Estonia #127 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 61% over the past decade (from 4.0 in 2013). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Estonia at Level 1 of 4: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Homicide Rate
1.5 /100k
Safety Rank
#69 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 1 of 4
Data Year
2023
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2023)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 61% over the past decade (from 4.0 in 2013). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Estonia Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Estonia, the homicide rate for men is 2.8× higher than the rate for women — 2.3 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 Estonia:
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated Exercise normal precautions in Estonia . Advisory Summary Estonia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our travel guidance for Estonia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip If you decide to travel to Estonia: Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Estonia
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated January 21, 2025).
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 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) The current Department of State Travel Advisory assesses Estonia at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions when coming to the country. There is minimal risk from terrorism in Tallinn.
Crime
There is minimal risk from crime in Estonia. Pickpocketing, theft, and petty crime do occur, particularly in crowded areas and areas where tourists and foreigners congregate. Pickpockets use various diversionary tactics to distract victims; one method involves bumping the victim in an effort to draw their attention to one individual, while another takes their wallet. Victims should report the crime to the police and cancel their credit cards as soon as possible. The majority of incidents affecting U.S. citizens involve individuals who are alone and/or intoxicated at night. Visitors who consume alcohol should exercise moderation and designate a sober member of the group to be in charge of security awareness. Statistics indicate incidents against individuals based on race, religion, or sexual orientation are limited; however the Embassy has received reports of U.S.
Demonstrations
Large demonstrations occur infrequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable and U.S. citizens should exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
International Financial Scams
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Estonia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include: Romance/Online dating Money transfers Lucrative sales Gold purchase Contracts with promises of large commissions Grandparent/Relative targeting Free Trip/Luggage Lotteries Inheritance notices Work permits/job offers Bank overpayments
Victims of Crime
U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(372) 668-8128. Victims of crime may also call 116 006 to contact Estonia’s Social Insurance Board’s Victim Support and Prevention Services Department to speak to a victim support worker. For social welfare emergencies, such as domestic violence or child abuse, dial 112 (English-speaking operators are sometimes available). Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .
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.
Estonia Population & Demographics
Population of 1,372,341, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Estonia safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Estonia at Level 1 of 4 (Exercise Normal Precautions). The homicide rate of 1.5 per 100,000 is low by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Estonia?
Estonia has an intentional homicide rate of 1.5 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #127 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Estonia?
Estonia is currently at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Estonia compare to other countries?
Estonia's homicide rate of 1.5 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.