France Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for France
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated May 28, 2025
France recorded 1.3 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is low by global standards. That places France #133 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 (1.2 per 100,000 in 2013, 1.3 today). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates France at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
1.3 /100k
Safety Rank
#63 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 (1.2 per 100,000 in 2013, 1.3 today). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How France Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In France, the homicide rate for men is 2.6× 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.
Armed Conflict Context
France has recorded battle-related deaths in recent years. Conflict deaths are counted separately from homicides — a country can have a moderate crime rate but significant conflict risk, and travel advisories weigh both.
Battle-Related Deaths
4(2018)
Military Spending
2.0% GDP(2024)
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for France:
Reissued after periodic review with minor edits. Exercise increased caution in France due to terrorism and civil unrest . Advisory Summary: Pickpocketing and phone thefts are common, especially in crowded places. Terrorist groups continue to plan possible attacks in France and may attack with little to no warning. There are also regular, peaceful protests and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France. Pickpocketing and phone thefts are frequent crimes.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for France
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated August 11, 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) For more information, see our Terrorism page. French authorities have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe.
Crime
The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing (passports, phones, cash, credit cards), vehicle and residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft. Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings. Rental cars are frequently targeted for break-ins when visitors exit their vehicles and leave valuables behind. Crimes of opportunity are more likely to involve violence on the street late at night or when the victim resists. Exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with trusted companions. While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur. Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France.
Demonstrations
occur frequently. 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. Strikes can interfere with travel plans and increase expenses of traveling to France. Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants. In case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds. Alerts issued regarding demonstrations are posted on the U.S. Mission’s website .
International Financial Scams
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.
Victims of Crime
Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 (the European emergency number which has some English-speaking staff) or 17 from a landline or cell phone and contact the U.S. Embassy Paris at +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22. French authorities do not generally speak English and communication may be difficult. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. See 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 regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion provide a list of local 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.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard 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.
France Population & Demographics
Population of 68,551,653, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is France safe to visit?
The US State Department rates France at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 1.3 per 100,000 is low by global standards.
What is the crime rate in France?
France has an intentional homicide rate of 1.3 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #133 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for France?
France 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 France compare to other countries?
France's homicide rate of 1.3 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Europe average of 1.6.