Medellín est-elle une ville sûre pour les nomades numériques, les expatriés et les retraités ?
Let’s talk about the security in Medellín, let me explain in a global context. Many capital cities and major metropolitan areas around the world have the same pattern: some areas are safe and lively, and some are not. Paris, Rome, Istanbul, London… every city has its corners. Even in the U.S., there are neighborhoods where not even the police go in. Medellín is no exception, but here’s the thing: the city today is light years away from its violent past and way safer than people abroad imagine.
In fact, Medellín compares favorably to many U.S. cities in homicide rates. Chicago, Las Vegas, Cincinnati, even Philadelphia have numbers as high or higher than Medellín. And trust me, I know what I’m talking about. I split my life between Medellín and Brussels and let me tell you this: Brussels has its own black spots. By mid-2025 there were already 57 shootings in Brussels; yes, it sounds incredible but it’s true, and we’re only halfway through the year, with the worst season (before Christmas) still to come. Just this summer there were 20 shootings then it will be more than hundred in a little city like Brussels is. Add the riots in May 2025 that left 80 injured and 77 arrests in Molenbeek and Jette, and you see the picture. Brussels also has one of the highest homicide rates in the EU, with 3.19 per 100,000 people in 2023.
And just so you see I’m not exaggerating in the same period, 6,211 adults and 874 minors were already charged, triple compared to 2024, including 1,250 suspects linked to drug trafficking. A year earlier, in June 2024, a shooting in Saint-Gilles near Brussels Midi station left 2 dead and 3 injured, tied to organized crime. If we rewind to 2022, the official numbers show 4,009 violent robberies, 14,080 pickpocketing cases (+42% vs 2021), 794 home surveillance requests, and even a 19% rise in sexual violence in public spaces compared to 2015.
Brussels is the capital of the EU, super cosmopolitan, but hey; it still has its Bronx. And what about America, the cities in USA have also their own grey cloud.
Here’s a clear look at homicide rates comparing Medellín with several major U.S. cities:
Main recommendation
Just like in New York, London, or Buenos Aires, basic city smarts go a long way. Late at night, don’t walk drunk and flashing a diamond through a marginal neighborhood. Stick to safe zones, well-lit streets, move in groups if possible. Same rule worldwide. I don’t go by myself alone to many places in America or Europe either. I avoid areas here and there, same as anywhere else.
One small habit: be mindful when walking and talking on your phone in the street. Inside malls or cafés you’re fine, but on sidewalks just be alert. Same with drinks: don’t accept random ones, don’t leave yours unattended. That’s not a “Colombian rule”, that’s global common sense. For transport, always use ride-hailing apps like Uber or a taxi you ordered by phone. They’re fast, reliable, and safe. Drivers usually arrive in five minutes.
By day, neighborhoods like Envigado, El Poblado, Laureles, Conquistadores, Manila, La Castellana, and Malibu are safe and walkable. El Centro or Manrique? Fine in daylight if you know your way around, but best explored with a local or guide. Marginal areas? Avoid them, same as you’d avoid the Bronx in NYC, certain Paris suburbs, or Brussels Midi station at night. Again, common sense.
And please, a legal note: don’t mess with drugs or organized crime. Yes, marijuana is partially decriminalized, but crossing the limit brings real trouble. Same with prostitution: there’s tolerance, but minors with fake IDs exist, and that can destroy your life. No excuses. At the end of the day, every adult knows the deal: you choose your actions, you face the consequences, whether in Medellín, Brussels, New York, or anywhere else. Keep it cool, keep it clean, keep it clever. There’s plenty of fun out here without needing a jail tour.
Another thing I need to say, because it matters to me as a local. Some foreigners are getting a reputation for coming to Medellín just for drugs and prostitution. That’s sad and negative, and it’s not what my city wants. Like everywhere, stereotypes are created by a small minority, but they hurt the image of everyone. The truth is, most expats here are wonderful people: nice, respectful, retirees enjoying life, digital nomads building projects, families discovering a new culture. That’s the Medellín I love, full of good people with good intentions, and that’s the kind of city I want to keep seeing grow.
Additional tip
If you’re wondering which neighborhoods feel right, what locals actually do (and don’t), or how to enjoy Medellín safely and confidently, we’ve got you. Our relocation agency offers a Personalized Orientation Call and a Customized Orientation Tour. We go beyond generic advice; we walk you through safe areas, local etiquette, smart habits, and tailor everything to your needs. Think of it as your friendly local briefing so you can enjoy Medellín without worries.
