Cuenca Named Safest City in South America for 2026

For expats weighing their options in South America, here's some encouraging news: Cuenca has been ranked the safest major city on the continent.

The Numbers

In July 2025, Numbeo's Safety Index ranked Cuenca first among South American cities with populations over 500,000. The city scored:

• Safety Index: 54.05
• Crime Index: 45.95

For comparison, Quito scored 36.55 on safety, while Guayaquil—Ecuador's largest city—came in at just 25.70.

The "Cuenca Bubble"

While Ecuador has faced serious security challenges in recent years, particularly related to drug trafficking along the coast, Cuenca has remained relatively insulated. Local police attribute this to several factors:

• Geography: Located in the highlands, far from coastal drug routes
• Community policing: High density of neighborhood watch programs
• AI-driven surveillance: Modern camera systems throughout the city
• Economic stability: Strong middle class and tourism economy

What This Means for Expats

The safety rankings align with what most long-term expats report: Cuenca feels safe. Walking around El Centro at night, taking taxis, using ATMs—the everyday activities that might cause anxiety in other Latin American cities are generally worry-free here.

That said, basic precautions still apply:

• Don't flash expensive jewelry or electronics
• Use registered taxis or apps like InDriver
• Be aware of your surroundings in crowded markets
• Keep copies of important documents separate from originals

Crime That Does Occur

The most common issues expats report are:

1. Petty theft - Pickpocketing in markets and buses
2. Phone snatching - Especially while using phones on the street
3. Car break-ins - Don't leave valuables visible

Violent crime against expats remains extremely rare.

The Bottom Line

No city is perfectly safe, but Cuenca's combination of low crime rates, strong community bonds, and geographic isolation from Ecuador's security challenges makes it an excellent choice for expats prioritizing safety.