Homicide Rates in Mexican Cities: A Comparative Look at ecatepec, Nezahualcóyotl, and US Metropolitan areas
Recent data indicates a decline in homicide rates in the Mexican municipalities of Ecatepec and Nezahualcóyotl, challenging perceptions of widespread violence and prompting a re-evaluation of comparisons with cities in the United States. This analysis focuses on cities with populations exceeding one million to ensure meaningful comparisons and minimize distortions caused by smaller population centers.The findings suggest that, in certain specific cases, violence levels in these Mexican cities are comparable to, or even lower than, those found in major US metropolitan areas.
Declining Violence in Ecatepec and Nezahualcóyotl
In 2023, Ecatepec, a municipality in the State of Mexico, recorded a homicide rate of slightly over 12 per 100,000 inhabitants. By 2024, this rate decreased to 11.7 per 100,000. Similarly, Nezahualcóyotl, also in the State of Mexico, saw a significant reduction, dropping from approximately 10 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants to 6.2 in the same period. [Source needed – original text does not provide source for these figures. Further research required.] this enhancement positions both municipalities favorably when compared to other cities within Mexico and the United States.
Comparing Homicide Rates: Mexico vs. the united States
the data reveals that both Ecatepec and Nezahualcóyotl now exhibit homicide rates lower than several US cities. Specifically, Ecatepec’s rate is below those of Philadelphia, Chicago, Columbus (Ohio), Dallas, Houston, Jacksonville (Florida), Fort Worth, and Phoenix. [Source needed – original text does not provide source for these figures. Further research required.] It performs similarly to San Antonio, Los Angeles (Central Bureau), Bronx (NY), and Austin.
Here’s a table summarizing approximate homicide rates per 100,000 inhabitants (as of late 2024/early 2025 – rates are constantly changing and require ongoing updates):
| City | Approximate Homicide Rate (per 100,000) | Source