Crime and Pollution in Barranquilla

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Barranquilla are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 62 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Barranquilla.

Crime Data in Barranquilla

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, crime data in Barranquilla reveals a high level of public concern. Despite efforts to address safety, residents are increasingly worried about crime, particularly violent offenses.

The perception of safety is notably low, with significant worries about becoming a victim of crime, especially during nighttime.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes, though not at the forefront of worries compared to violent offenses, still contribute to the public's anxiety. Concerns about theft and home burglaries persist among Barranquilla's residents.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related problems are a recurring concern in Barranquilla. The community perceives these issues as detrimental to the city's safety, impacting residents' quality of life and sense of security.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes rank high amongst the fears of Barranquilla's citizens, with worries about physical assault and muggings driving public fear and impacting everyday life.
  • Public SafetySafety perceptions in Barranquilla are low, significantly more so at night, with many residents feeling vulnerable to potential crime. The daytime offers little reprieve in perceived safety, indicating broad-based concerns across different periods.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsA pervasive concern in the city is the increasing perception of crime rates climbing. This growing fear, accentuated by violent and drug-related crimes, is influencing the overall sentiment in Barranquilla.
  • Specific FearsWhile there is widespread concern about violent crime, fears around being mugged or attacked are prominent. Issues related to corruption and bribery further exacerbate public anxiety about crime.
Worldwide
Colombia

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for Colombia is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025

Pollution Data in Barranquilla

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Barranquilla shows moderate progress in managing pollution levels, but concerns persist, particularly relating to air quality. Despite some improvements, residents remain wary about potential health impacts.

The air quality in Barranquilla receives a moderate rating, with positive feedback on certain atmospheric conditions, yet continued effort is needed to address overall environmental health.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The levels of PM2.5 in Barranquilla are currently negligible, presenting a low-risk factor for community respiratory health based on current data.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)Similar to PM2.5, PM10 levels are not significant at present, providing reassurance regarding larger particulate pollution for the city's residents.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution remains a noticeable issue in Barranquilla, disrupting daily life and comfort, although not as intensely as in other major urban areas.

Garbage disposal dissatisfaction highlights a problem area. The community's expectations for cleanliness are not fully met, impacting overall living conditions.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionResidents express dissatisfaction with current garbage disposal systems, indicating a need for more efficient waste management solutions to enhance city hygiene.
  • Noise and Light PollutionNoise pollution is a concern, though less severe than other metropolitan areas, it still affects quality of life and the overall environment in Barranquilla.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

While green spaces in Barranquilla are valued, there is potential to expand and improve these areas to better support environmental and recreational needs.

Water quality in Barranquilla is generally regarded as satisfactory, with residents having relatively few complaints about the city's water supply.

  • Green and Parks QualityResidents appreciate the city's green areas, yet believe that enhancements could further benefit Barranquilla’s environmental and social landscape.
  • Drinking Water QualityDrinking water quality is a strong point for Barranquilla, with the local population expressing satisfaction with its purity and accessibility.
Worldwide
Colombia

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for Colombia is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025