Crime levels can vary a lot from city to city, and Numbeo’s Crime Index gives a snapshot of how safe or risky life feels in different places. Six of the ten African cities with the highest crime scores are in South Africa.
- Business Insider Africa presents the top 10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2026.
- The list is courtesy of Numbeo
- Six of the ten African cities with the highest crime scores are in South Africa.
Crime levels can vary a lot from city to city, and Numbeo’s Crime Index gives a snapshot of how safe or risky life feels in different places.
The index looks at things like people’s perception of crime, how safe they feel during the day and at night, property crimes like burglary and theft, violent crimes such as assault and robbery, and even bias-related incidents.
Keep in mind, these scores reflect user experiences rather than official statistics. Interestingly, six of the ten African cities with the highest crime scores are in South Africa.
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1. Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (82.8)
Pietermaritzburg ranks as South Africa’s most dangerous city on this list, with a crime index of 82.8 and safety at just 17.2. High crime rates, including property and violent crimes, pose daily challenges for residents.
2. Pretoria, South Africa (81.8)
Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, has a crime index of 81.8 and a low safety score of 18.2. While it offers political and economic significance, residents face elevated risks of theft, burglary, and street crime.
3. Johannesburg, South Africa (80.8)
Johannesburg has a crime index of 80.8, with a safety rating of 19.2, making it one of the least safe cities on the continent. As South Africa’s financial capital, it attracts business, tourism, and international investment, but street crime and violent incidents remain common. Residents rely on private security and gated communities, and visitors are advised to remain alert. Despite safety concerns, Johannesburg offers cultural vibrancy, commerce, and urban opportunity.
4. Durban, South Africa (80.4)
Durban’s crime index is 80.4, paired with a safety index of 19.6. The coastal city is a major port and tourist hub, yet high levels of theft, armed robbery, and violent crime affect residents and visitors alike. Security precautions are essential, particularly in central areas.
5. Port Elizabeth, South Africa (78.6)
Port Elizabeth has a crime index of 78.6 and a safety at 21.4. This coastal city faces significant challenges from violent and property crime, impacting daily life for residents. Nonetheless, it remains a key industrial and transport centre with a vibrant port and growing infrastructure.
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6. Cape Town, South Africa (73.7)
Cape Town shows a crime index of 73.7 and a safety score of 26.3. Known for its natural beauty, tourist attractions, and cultural diversity, Cape Town is a hub for tourism and business.
7. Lagos, Nigeria (68.8)
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, has a crime index of 68.8 and safety at 31.2. As Africa’s largest city, it faces challenges including petty crime, traffic-related risks, and occasional violent incidents.
8. Windhoek, Namibia (67.6)
Windhoek, the Namibian capital, has a crime index of 67.6 and a safety score of 32.4. While relatively safer than many African cities, it still experiences theft, burglary, and street crime.
9. Harare, Zimbabwe ( 60.7)
Harare’s crime index is 60.7, with safety at 39.3. As Zimbabwe’s capital, it faces moderate levels of crime, including petty theft and occasional violent incidents. Economic challenges and urban congestion impact daily life, but the city retains administrative, cultural, and commercial significance.
10. Nairobi, Kenya (59.4)
Nairobi, Kenya’s largest city, has a crime index of 59.4 and a safety index of 40.6. Compared to other African capitals, it is relatively safer, though petty crime, theft, and occasional violent incidents remain concerns.
