With millions of fans expected to travel across North America for the 2026 World Cup this summer, safety will be an important consideration alongside cost, travel and climate.
While security at the tournament will be extensive, understanding baseline safety conditions will offer supporters useful information for planning accommodation and travel across the continent.
Using the City Safety Index (out of 100), we have ranked the 16 host cities from most dangerous to safest.
Most dangerous 2026 World Cup host cities ranked
1. Mexico City – 33.2 Safety Index
Mexico City, home to the Estadio Azteca, ranks as the most dangerous host city, according to the data.
Despite its iconic football history and cultural significance, the sheer scale of the country contributes to elevated crime levels.
Safety conditions vary by neighbourhood, and fans are generally advised to remain within central districts and use organised transport.
2. Philadelphia – 34.6 Safety Index
Philadelphia follows closely behind – despite being a major sports venue in the United States, with strong transport links, there are ongoing concerns around violent crime in certain areas.
3. Atlanta – 35.8 Safety Index
Atlanta, where the Mercedes-Benz Stadium takes centre stage, ranks as the third most dangerous host city at the 2026 World Cup, with safety concerns concentrated in specific districts.
The city's transport network and large police presence during events around the top-rated venue will be crucial in mitigating risks during the tournament.
4. Houston – 36.9 Safety Index
Houston's vast layout and high population density contribute towards its lower safety rating.
While popular with tourists, travelling supporters may need to plan carefully around transport and accommodation locations if heading to the NRG Stadium.
5. Guadalajara – 37.7 Safety Index
Despite being graded as one of the best host cities, boasting the cheapest living costs and a suitable climate, it scores fifth on this list.
Like many major Mexican cities, safety will vary by neighbourhood, so local knowledge may be important. Fans are encouraged to plan routes and transport carefully before attending games at the Estadio Akron.
6. San Francisco – 39.3 Safety Index
San Francisco's score reflects concerns around property crime and public disorder, issues that have drawn wider attention in recent years.
However, its tourist and transport infrastructure remains strong around Levi's Stadium.
How do the remaining 2026 World Cup host cities compare?
All of the other 2026 World Cup host cities score above a City Safety Index of 40, suggesting a safer profile.
Kansas City (41.4) and Seattle (44.6) are next, with fellow US cities following behind – Los Angeles (45.8), Miami (46.7), Dallas (48.3) and New York City (48.8).
Which is the safest 2026 World Cup host city?
At the safer end of the spectrum, Monterrey (51.9) in Mexico performs solidly, while Canadian hosts Vancouver (57.3) and Toronto (56.5) rank among the safest overall.
However, it is Boston – home to the Gillette Stadium – which is the safest host city of the 2026 World Cup, with a Safety Index of 60.1.
While these safety rankings provide valuable insight to travelling supporters, the tournament will operate under heightened security measures, so increased policing, transport and crowd control means that fans shouldn't fear what should be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.