Crime and Pollution in Montevideo

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Montevideo are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 275 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 Montevideo.

Crime Data in Montevideo

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Montevideo's residents express significant concerns about crime, reflecting a moderate overall crime index. Property crimes and drug-related issues dominate the public's fears.

Perceptions of safety vary, with a noticeable sense of insecurity at night compared to the more reassuring daylight hours.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes, such as theft and home burglaries, are pressing issues for those living in Montevideo. Residents are particularly anxious about their belongings being stolen, which has become a significant public concern.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related crimes pose an ongoing challenge in Montevideo. They contribute to a sense of unease among residents, marking a crucial area for local authorities to address.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes, although not the largest worry, still exist as concerns among residents, with fears more pronounced towards muggings and assaults.
  • Public SafetyThe public safety perception in Montevideo is mixed. During the day, many people feel relatively safe, but this sharply declines at night, indicating an area that needs focused attention.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsA key issue is the growing perception that crime is on the rise in Montevideo, which adds to residents' anxiety and underscores the need for strategic interventions.
  • Specific FearsThere is a broad concern about property crimes, alongside fears of drug-related activities. Additionally, concerns related to personal safety, such as fear of mugging and robbery, are highlighted by the community.
Worldwide
Uruguay

Crime Rankings

Montevideo ranks 1st on the Crime rankings in Uruguay.
The crime ranking by city for Uruguay 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 Montevideo

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Montevideo offers moderately good air quality in 2024, though air pollution remains a concern due to vehicular emissions and other urban factors.

With moderate levels of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), residents remain vigilant about the potential health impacts, particularly in densely populated areas.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The PM2.5 level is kept within moderate limits, but vigilance is necessary to prevent health risks associated with prolonged exposure, especially in children and at-risk populations.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)PM10 levels are noticeable but considered moderate. Their impact is felt more acutely during certain times of the year, necessitating ongoing monitoring and control measures.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Garbage disposal dissatisfaction is a notable concern in Montevideo, with complaints indicating inefficiencies in waste management that affect urban cleanliness.

Noise pollution is also highlighted but is relatively less pronounced compared to other urban issues.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionResidents express significant dissatisfaction with garbage disposal services, emphasizing the need for improved waste management solutions to enhance city tidiness.
  • Noise and Light PollutionWhile noise pollution is present, it is not as severe as waste management issues. However, residents in certain areas do report disturbances that affect their quality of life.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Montevideo is known for its valuable green spaces which offer recreation and environmental benefits, serving as important areas for residents.

The quality of drinking water is high, a positive aspect for Montevideo, contributing positively to resident health and lifestyle.

  • Green and Parks QualityGreen spaces in Montevideo are appreciated for their contribution to the city's livability, providing residents with enjoyable and healthy environments.
  • Drinking Water QualityThe drinking water quality in Montevideo is commendable, with high accessibility and safety, making it a key advantage for its inhabitants.
Worldwide
Uruguay

Pollution Rankings

Montevideo ranks 1st on the Pollution rankings in Uruguay.
The pollution ranking for Uruguay 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