The Short Answer
Medellín's 2024 homicide rate of 11.04 per 100,000 is now lower than Chicago, Houston, and New Orleans. For dental tourists staying in El Poblado or Laureles, the risk profile is comparable to visiting any major American city.
If you're Googling "is Medellín safe," you probably know the city's history. Yes, in 1991, Medellín recorded 381 homicides per 100,000 residents—the highest murder rate on Earth. That was over 30 years ago. Today's Medellín is a different city entirely, and the data proves it.
More than 23,000 international patients now visit Medellín annually for medical and dental procedures. The city's healthcare infrastructure ranks 22nd globally by the WHO—ahead of the United States at 37th. Let's look at what this actually means for your safety as a dental tourist.
What This Guide Covers
Current Crime Statistics (2024-2025)
In 2024, Medellín recorded just 300 homicides citywide—the lowest absolute number since 1976 and a 21% reduction from 2023. The homicide rate of 11.04 per 100,000 is the lowest in 82 years.
2024 Crime Improvements (Colombian National Police)
The transformation isn't just about numbers—it's about where crime happens. Medellín now ranks 19th among Colombian cities for violence, meaning it's not even in the country's top 50 most dangerous municipalities.
Safe Neighborhoods for Dental Tourists
Almost every dental clinic catering to international patients operates in one of three neighborhoods. These areas have crime profiles comparable to upscale urban areas in the US.
El Poblado
The primary hub for medical tourism. Home to most international dental clinics, upscale hotels, and Parque Lleras dining district.
Laureles
Named "Coolest Neighborhood in the World" by Time Out in 2023. Popular with expats, more residential feel, excellent restaurants.
Envigado
Adjacent municipality with a similar safety profile to El Poblado. Quieter, more residential, favored by digital nomads and long-term visitors.
How Medellín Compares to US Cities
This comparison often surprises Americans. Medellín's current homicide rate is lower than many cities you'd visit without hesitation.
| City | Homicide Rate (per 100k) |
|---|---|
| St. Louis | ~60-65 |
| Baltimore | ~55-58 |
| New Orleans | ~40-50 |
| Chicago | ~18 |
| Houston | ~17 |
| Medellín (2024) | 11.04 |
| Miami | ~11 |
The neighborhoods where dental tourists stay (El Poblado, Laureles) have significantly lower rates than the citywide average. Think of it like comparing Manhattan to the South Bronx—same city, very different realities.
State Department Advisory Explained
Current Status: Level 3 — Reconsider Travel
This advisory applies to all of Colombia, not Medellín specifically. The same level applies to Jamaica, Egypt, and Trinidad and Tobago—destinations Americans visit frequently.
Important context: Medellín is explicitly not in Level 4 "Do Not Travel" zones. Those designations apply to specific regions like Arauca, Cauca, Norte de Santander, and the Colombia-Venezuela border—none of which are anywhere near Medellín.
The advisory cites general crime concerns, not specific targeting of tourists. For dental patients following common-sense precautions in tourist-friendly neighborhoods, the practical risk is low.
Practical Safety Tips for Dental Tourists
These aren't unique to Medellín—they're smart practices for any international travel. Following them keeps your risk profile minimal.
Stay in El Poblado or Laureles
Book accommodations in these neighborhoods. Your dental clinic is almost certainly located here anyway.
Use Uber or clinic-arranged transport
Uber works seamlessly in Medellín. Many clinics offer airport pickup and transportation to all appointments.
Avoid displaying expensive items
Keep flashy jewelry and electronics discreet—same advice applies in Miami, LA, or any major city.
Skip dating apps
The few tourist incidents in 2023 involved scopolamine ("devil's breath") drugging through dating app encounters. Dental tourists following normal travel patterns face virtually no risk.
Accept clinic transportation offers
Most quality dental clinics include airport pickup and hotel transfers. Take advantage of it—it's included and convenient.
Ready to Learn More?
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Get Your Free QuoteThe Bottom Line
Is Medellín safe for dental tourism? The data says yes—with the same common-sense precautions you'd take anywhere. The neighborhoods where dental clinics operate have safety profiles comparable to upscale areas in American cities.
Over 23,000 international patients visit Medellín for medical procedures every year. The city's transformation from 1991 to today is one of the most remarkable urban turnarounds in modern history. Your job is simply to stay in the right areas, use legitimate transportation, and focus on your dental work.
The bigger risk isn't safety—it's choosing the wrong clinic. That's why verifying dental credentials matters more than worrying about the city itself.