Spain Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Spain
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated May 12, 2025
Spain recorded 0.7 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Spain #170 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 (0.6 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.7 today). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Spain at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
0.7 /100k
Safety Rank
#26 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 (0.6 per 100,000 in 2013, 0.7 today). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Spain Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Spain, the homicide rate for men is 2.0× higher than the rate for women — 0.9 vs 0.5 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 Spain:
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution in Spain due to terrorism and civil unrest . Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and target: Tourist locations Transportation centers (airports/train stations) Markets and shopping malls Local government facilities Hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship and educational institutions Parks Major sporting and cultural events Demonstrations are common.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Spain
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated August 11, 2025).
Emergency numbers
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services For toll-free domestic violence hotline dial 016 . For local emergency services dial 112 . For the U.S. Embassy in Madrid dial (+34) 91-587-2200 For the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona dial (+34) 93-280-2227
Terrorism
Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad with knives, firearms, and vehicles. Terrorists may target crowds at: Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants Places of worship Schools Parks Shopping malls and markets Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights) Spanish authorities have taken strong measures to prevent terrorist attacks, including arresting suspects linked to plots. However, credible sources report terrorist groups continue to plan attacks in Europe, including in Spain.
Crime
Pickpocketing and other types of theft are very common in Spain. Criminals often use distractions to steal from victims. Car break-ins are also frequent in Spain. Street crimes against U.S. citizens usually occur in: Tourist spots Airports Train stations Urban and beach destinations Violent crimes, including robberies, have been reported. Some victims have needed medical treatment.
Follow these tips to stay safe
Use common sense. Stay alert to your surroundings. Take the same personal security measures you would take at a large city or tourist destination. Always keep track of your passport, including on flights and other transportation. There have been reports of passports being stolen on planes to and from Spain, changing gates, collecting luggage at baggage claim, or while waiting for a taxi. Do not let your guard down when you pass through security at any airport. This is particularly true at the Barcelona International Airport. Keep track of all personal belongings when picking up rental cars or while waiting for taxis. Never leave bags unattended. Keep valuables like passports, cash, and phones in a safe spot, not in outer pockets or on tables or floors. Don't leave bags on chairs, counters, or on top of our suitcase or travel bag.
Sexual assault
The U.S. Mission in Spain has received many reports of sexual assaults of U.S. citizens. Victims include younger travelers, students, and exchange teachers. Many U.S. victims of sexual assault in Spain say they feel judged and re-victimized during the long and difficult criminal justice process. While not required, many U.S. victims of sexual assault in Spain find it helpful to hire a local lawyer or use the Office of Victim's Assistance for support during the legal process. Information about this service is given at the police station when the report is filed. There have been many reports of sexual assaults by Manuel Blanco Vela, a tour operator in Seville, Spain, against U.S. student victims. Research tour companies online to make informed decisions. Many sexual assaults happen at night or early morning. Attackers use alcohol or drugs to make victims more vulnerable.
Domestic violence
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services For toll-free domestic violence hotline dial 016 . For local emergency services dial 112 . For the U.S. Embassy in Madrid dial (+34) 91-587-2200 For the U.S. Consulate General Barcelona dial (+34) 93-280-2227 The U.S. Department of State provides information on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care. Help you report a crime to the police. Contact family or friends with your written consent. Provide general information about the victim’s role during the local investigation. Provide a list of local attorneys. Inform you of victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. Issue an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. and/or limited medical support in cases of poverty. Replace a lost or stolen passport.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Past demonstrations have turned violent. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Scams
Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams and learn how the FBI can help. Financial scams are common in Spain. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim Spanish authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help. Common scams include: People claiming to be U.S. military personnel Romance and online dating Money transfers Grandparent and relative targeting Free trip or luggage Lotteries Inheritance notices Work permits and job offers
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated. Rules with regards to 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.
Weather and Natural Disasters
The top 3 weather events in Spain are: Heatwaves – In the summer, Spain often experiences intense heatwaves. Temperatures can exceed 104°F in some regions, such as Andalusia. Take proper precautions when exercising outdoors and stay hydrated. Droughts – Periods of low rainfall are common in southern and eastern Spain. They lead to water shortages and impacts on agriculture. Severe Storms – Thunderstorms can bring heavy rain, floods, and hail, often without warning. This is common in coastal areas like Catalonia and Valencia. Follow local weather advisories while traveling in Spain.
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.
Spain Population & Demographics
Population of 48,848,840, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spain safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Spain at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Spain?
Spain has an intentional homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #170 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Spain?
Spain 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 Spain compare to other countries?
Spain's homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.