El Salvador, with a population of slightly more than six million people, is home to some of the most dangerous cities in the country and the globe.
If you’re considering visiting El Salvador, there are a few things you should know about one of the world’s most hazardous countries.
What Makes a Visit to El Salvador Dangerous for US Tourists?
The homicide rate in El Salvador is one of the highest globally, and this is mainly attributed to the activities of two major national gangs. These gangs are involved in drug trafficking and turf wars, which have resulted in an increase in crime rates throughout the country.
Traveling to that destination can be a risky proposition for American tourists.
According to reports from the local community, the homicide rate in El Salvador is estimated to be approximately 60 homicides per 100,000 residents.
The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in El Salvador
#1. San Salvador
It has been speculated that San Salvador houses two of the most menacing and dominant street gangs in the country.
The notorious Mara Salvatrucha, also known as “MS-13,” along with the Barrio 18 gangs, are infamous for their global reign of terror, leaving behind a trail of murders, drug trafficking, and extortion.
The prevalence of poverty, scarcity of resources, and rampant corruption are all significant factors that contribute to the alarming levels of violence and chaos in this region.
According to the most recent population estimate, there are approximately 2.4 million people residing in the area.
#2. Soyapango
Soyapango, like many other perilous cities in El Salvador, is plagued with warring gangs that perpetrate violent crimes against both locals and visitors.
Soyapango has earned the unfortunate reputation of being one of the most perilous regions in El Salvador. Both locals and authorities have labeled it as such, which automatically puts the city in the category of one of the most hazardous places on the planet.
According to the Numbeo Crime Index, Soyapango is considered a highly dangerous city with a crime ranking of 87.50 out of 100.
According to the most recent population estimate, there are currently 290,412 individuals residing in the area.
#3. Ilopango
Located in El Salvador, Ilopango is one of several cities that are notorious for being under the domination of local gangs and organized crime.
Situated towards the southeast of San Salvador, Ilopango has a murder rate averaging around 60 per 100,000 inhabitants.
The most recent population estimate stands at 159,232.
#4. Mejicanos
Mejicanos, a city in El Salvador, is one of the most dangerous locations in the country. Local crime syndicates have a tight grip on the area, making it a difficult place to live peacefully.
Mejicanos is considered one of the most perilous cities in El Salvador due to the prevalence of violent crime and high levels of poverty. These two factors are interrelated in the sense that poverty contributes to the city’s dangerous environment.
As per the recent population estimate, the count stands at 160,317.
#5. Apopa
As with other cities in the vicinity, Apopa, El Salvador is known for its high rates of violent crime.
Apopa, a city in El Salvador, is known to be a dangerous place due to the high levels of gang activity, extreme poverty, and lack of access to essential services. These factors combine to create an environment where residents face significant challenges and risks on a daily basis. Despite efforts to improve living conditions and reduce crime rates, Apopa remains a difficult place to live for many people. However, there are also individuals and organizations working hard to make positive changes in the community and provide support to those in need.
The people residing in Apopa are constantly living in fear as the town’s homicide rate is one of the highest in the entire world.
The most recent population estimate is 215,071.
#6. Santa Ana
Santa Ana, El Salvador is not only renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historic architecture, but it is also notorious for its alarmingly high levels of violent crime. With an average homicide rate of approximately 60 homicides per 100,000 residents, the city has gained a reputation for being a dangerous place to live.
According to the most recent population estimate, there are currently 75,960 individuals residing in the area.
#7. San Miguel
Located in the eastern region of El Salvador, San Miguel is a vibrant city that boasts a rich history and culture.
Living or visiting this city can be quite dangerous due to the prevalence of gang violence, murders, assaults, robberies, and other forms of violent crimes. The safety of both residents and tourists is at risk, which is a cause for concern.
The local police force in this city in El Salvador is facing such a high level of danger that the military has been called in to provide additional support.
The most recent estimation for the population is 241,094.
#8. Usulutan
Located in the southeastern region of El Salvador, Usulutan is a vibrant and diverse area waiting to be explored.
Although not as popular as its coastal counterparts, the town still attracts a considerable number of visitors each year.
If you are planning to travel to the Usulutan area, it is essential to keep in mind that the region is plagued by high levels of gang activity, ongoing incidents of violent crime, and extreme poverty. Due to these factors, Usulutan is considered one of the most dangerous cities in El Salvador. To ensure your safety, be cautious and vigilant while exploring the area.
According to the most recent population estimate, there are approximately 319,623 individuals residing in the area.
#9. Santa Tecla
Located to the west of San Salvador, Santa Tecla is a charming city worth exploring.
Although Santa Tecla boasts a lively cultural scene and an active nightlife, a significant number of its inhabitants live in a constant state of apprehension and anxiety.
The areas of this region that are controlled by gangs witness a significant number of crimes against individuals, which include theft, assault, robbery, and homicide.
The substandard living conditions of the permanent residents in the city are quite alarming. Most of them live in slums and are struggling with poverty. Additionally, gang control only adds to their already difficult living situations.
#10. Zacatecoluca
With a population of less than 100,000 residents, Zacatecoluca is considered one of the smaller cities in El Salvador.
Located in the southeastern region of the country, this bustling city serves as a significant hub for commerce and transportation.
The city, despite its reputation as an industrial hub, unfortunately suffers from high levels of unemployment, poverty, and crime.
According to recent reports, Zacatecoluca has a murder rate of approximately 50 per 100,000 inhabitants.
It’s surprising to note that this figure is considerably high for a city that has an estimated population of around seventy-five thousand permanent residents.
Read More:
- Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Nevada (Updated 2023)
- Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Belarus (Updated 2023)
