As international travel regains momentum in 2025, safety remains a top concern for globetrotters. According to the latest Safety Index by Country from data platform Numbeo, not all destinations are equal when it comes to crime and personal security. While some small nations shine as safe havens, others remain plagued by violence and instability.
Andorra Tops the List of Safest Countries
Numbeo analyzed 146 countries based on user-submitted survey data, ranking them according to perceptions of crime, safety while walking alone (day and night), and the risk of various offenses, from theft to violent crime. The scores range from 1 (most dangerous) to 100 (safest).
Andorra, a tiny country nestled between Spain and France, claimed the top spot with a remarkable safety score of 84.7. Despite its small size—just 181 square miles and around 82,000 residents—Andorra is considered a secure and peaceful destination with low crime rates and a strong sense of public order.
Top 10 Safest Countries for 2025
- Andorra (84.7)
- United Arab Emirates (84.5)
- Qatar (84.2)
- Taiwan (82.9)
- Oman (81.7)
- Isle of Man (79.0)
- Hong Kong (78.5)
- Armenia (77.9)
- Singapore (77.4)
- Japan (77.1)
These countries stood out not only for low crime levels, but also for residents’ reported feelings of safety in public spaces and low levels of property and violent crimes. Many of these destinations have strong law enforcement, social cohesion, and efficient governance contributing to their rankings.
The U.S. Falls Behind on Global Safety
In contrast, the United States ranked 89th out of 146 countries, with a safety score of 50.8. Despite recent data showing a decline in violent crime in major U.S. cities, public perception remains cautious. Concerns about gun violence, theft, and assault persist, pulling the U.S. well below countries like Ireland, Portugal, and even some developing nations.
The United Kingdom didn’t fare much better, placing 87th with a score of 51.7, highlighting growing public concern over crime rates, especially in urban centers.
Most Dangerous Countries to Avoid in 2025
At the other end of the spectrum, Venezuela was rated the world’s most dangerous country, with a dismal safety score of 19.3. The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Venezuela, citing risks including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and civil unrest. Political demonstrations often turn violent, and law enforcement responses can be brutal and unpredictable.
Other countries at the bottom of the list face severe challenges related to gang violence, political instability, and economic hardship.
Bottom 10 Most Dangerous Countries
- Venezuela (19.3)
- Papua New Guinea (19.7)
- Haiti (21.1)
- Afghanistan (24.9)
- South Africa (25.3)
- Honduras (28.0)
- Trinidad and Tobago (29.1)
- Syria (31.9)
- Jamaica (32.6)
- Peru (32.9)
Understanding the Index
Numbeo’s index is based on user-contributed data and reflects perceived safety rather than official crime statistics. Survey questions focus on how safe people feel walking alone, experiences with theft or violence, and discrimination based on race, gender, or religion. While not a replacement for government data, it serves as a useful reference for travelers seeking real-world insights.
“It’s important to note that the Crime Index provided by Numbeo is based on user-contributed data and perceptions, which may differ from official government statistics,” the organization stated.
What This Means for Travelers
While countries like Andorra, Japan, and Singapore remain top choices for those seeking peace of mind abroad, the U.S. and U.K.’s lower rankings suggest that perceptions of safety are increasingly shaped by public experiences and media coverage, not just crime data.
For travelers planning international moves or vacations in 2025, this list offers a snapshot of where to go—and where to think twice—when safety is a priority.
