Hungary Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Hungary
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Normal Precautions
Updated April 15, 2026
Hungary recorded 0.7 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2023, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Hungary #168 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 54% over the past decade (from 1.6 in 2013). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Hungary at Level 1 of 4: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Homicide Rate
0.7 /100k
Safety Rank
#28 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 54% over the past decade (from 1.6 in 2013). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Hungary Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Hungary, the homicide rate for men is 1.4× higher than the rate for women — 0.8 vs 0.6 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 Hungary:
Exercise normal precaution in Hungary . Hungary is generally a safe destination for travelers. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas and major train stations in Budapest. This includes passport theft on the trains between Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava. Review our travel guidance for Hungary to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Hungary
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated April 23, 2026).
Terrorism
Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad, including in Europe. For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime
Although Hungary is generally a safe place to visit, you should use caution and stay alert. Be especially careful in crowded tourist areas, train stations, buses, trams, and metros. Passports, cash, and credit cards are favorite targets of thieves. The Embassy regularly receives reports of pickpocketing on the trains between Budapest and Vienna, so please be especially mindful of your belongings when traveling this route. There have been some instances in Budapest where U.S. citizens were overcharged exorbitant prices for food, beverages, or taxi services. Always verify the cost before making a purchase. There have been incidents, although rare, where U.S. citizens were unknowingly drugged. Do not accept food or drink from anyone but a server. Additionally, the Embassy has received reports of racially motivated assaults. Please report all crimes to the local police.
Victims of Crime
Hungarian authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Hungary. Report crimes to the local police by calling 112 . U.S. citizen victims of violent crime and sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. See our webpage about help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 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 our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
Demonstrations
Political gatherings and protests occur frequently in Hungary, mostly in Budapest. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Ethnic nationalist groups have gained popularity in Hungary in the past years, in some cases advocating intolerance towards migrants and minorities, including Jews, Roma, and LGB individuals. Although these far-right groups do not engage in violence and are not explicitly anti-United States, you should avoid public demonstrations and confrontations with their members. Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and political rallies. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. In a few instances where demonstrations have turned violent, authorities have used riot police to control crowds.
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
International Financial Scams
See the Department of State and FBI webpages for information.
Tourism
The tourism industry is generally well-regulated and rules 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 generally available throughout the country. Outside of major metropolitan centers, 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.
Hungary Population & Demographics
Population of 9,562,065, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hungary safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Hungary at Level 1 of 4 (Exercise Normal Precautions). The homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Hungary?
Hungary has an intentional homicide rate of 0.7 per 100,000 people (2023, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #168 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Hungary?
Hungary 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 Hungary compare to other countries?
Hungary'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.