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Paraguay is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in South America, boasting significantly lower violent crime rates than most of its neighbors. Although petty theft can occasionally happen in crowded urban zones, the majority of towns and interior cities provide a calm, peaceful, and highly secure environment, making Paraguay an excellent choice for those seeking the safest places to live in Paraguay.
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If you’re researching the safest places to live in Paraguay, one of the first questions that probably crosses your mind is: “Is Paraguay safe?” It’s a fair question—after all, many people still associate the region with instability or high crime rates.
But here’s the reality: Paraguay consistently ranks among the safest countries in South America, offering a sense of calm and community that surprises many newcomers. As well, the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory states; visitors are advised to exercise normal precautions in Paraguay, underscoring the country’s overall safety and stability compared to many other destinations in the region.
For remote professionals, families, and retirees, knowing which towns and cities are the safest places to live in Paraguay can make all the difference.
Safety isn’t just about crime statistics—it’s about how comfortable you feel walking to a café with your laptop, letting your kids play outside, or trusting your neighbors. In that sense, Paraguay delivers everyday security that feels almost old-fashioned—the kind that’s been lost in much of the Western world.
When comparing regional crime data, Paraguay’s violent crime rate is significantly lower than in neighboring Brazil or Argentina.
According to Statista, the country’s homicide rate hovers around 6.2 per 100,000 residents, one of the lowest in Latin America.
Most crimes here are petty—pickpocketing or opportunistic theft—usually in busier areas such as downtown Asunción or Ciudad del Este.
If you’ve spent time in other parts of Latin America, discovering the safest places to live in Paraguay may come as a pleasant surprise. It’s not flashy, but it’s stable. It’s not overrun with tourists, but it’s quietly growing as a haven for those seeking affordability, privacy, and a slower pace of life.
In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the safest places to live in Paraguay, including practical safety tips, healthcare infrastructure, and what everyday life looks like for expats and digital nomads who’ve chosen to make Paraguay home.
Table of Contents
This map highlights the safest places to live in Paraguay, from peaceful lakeside towns to secure interior communities—photo via BrankoMarinovic99, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Understanding Safety in Paraguay
When looking for the safest places to live in Paraguay, it helps to understand the country’s overall safety landscape.
Of course, no country is entirely risk-free. In Paraguay, safety concerns tend to be practical: patchy street lighting, occasional corruption when dealing with local bureaucracy, or the challenge of adapting to a more relaxed approach to rules and road safety.
But in day-to-day life, locals and expats alike describe Paraguay as peaceful, friendly, and community-oriented—the kind of place where people still greet each other on the street and look out for one another.
Most criminal activity in Paraguay is petty theft or opportunistic crimes. Pick-pocketing, purse snatching, and cellphone theft are the most common issues, particularly in busy urban areas like Asunción and Ciudad del Este.
Armed robberies are rare but can occur at night in some districts—generally outside the communities where most remote professionals, families, and retirees choose to live.
Border towns such as Ciudad del Este, Pedro Juan Caballero, and Salto del Guairá have higher levels of smuggling and illicit trade. While these activities rarely impact visitors, it’s wise to avoid living in high-risk border zones.
Corruption is also a consideration; bribery can occur, especially when navigating local bureaucracy or dealing with traffic police.
Paraguay’s army plays a vital role in maintaining national safety and peace–photo via MC1 Brien Aho, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons .
Top Safest Places to live in Paraguay
1. Areguá
Population: 83,028 | Distance from Asunción: 24 mi (39 km) east on Lake Ypacaraí
Areguá’s artisan market—a peaceful town known for safety, creativity, and charm. Photo by Guillermo2149 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Areguá is one of the safest places to live in Paraguay, offering low crime rates, welcoming locals, and a strong sense of community.
Families and remote professionals appreciate its quiet streets and secure neighborhoods, making it an ideal location for those seeking tranquility near the capital.
Beyond safety, Areguá shines for its cultural and lifestyle perks. Recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2019, it boasts artisanal pottery, vibrant local markets, and the annual Strawberry Festival, where you can enjoy music, dance, and fresh strawberries.
The lakeside setting and picturesque colonial streets create a peaceful environment for outdoor activities and weekend escapes.
Explore your residency options: download the Latin America Residency Map.
The calm waters of Ypacaraí Lake reflect San Bernardino’s peaceful lifestyle photo by Santiviago, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
2. San Bernardino
Population: 20,491 | Distance from Asunción: 44 mi (71 km) southeast on Lake Ypacaraí
San Bernardino is a safe, lakeside town that is popular with expats, retirees, and families. With low crime and a resort-town atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for relaxation without compromising on safety.
The town is famous for its German-Swiss colonial architecture, summer festivals, and boating opportunities on Lake Ypacaraí.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking nearby hills, water sports, and bird-watching, making San Bernardino both secure and scenic for everyday living.
3. Encarnación
Population: 20,491 | Distance from Asunción: 249 mi (399 km) southeast on Lake Ypacaraí
Encarnación’s riverfront—clean, organized, and among Paraguay’s safest areas, photo by Falk2, Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Encarnación is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Paraguay, featuring well-kept streets, low violent crime, and a vibrant expat and local community. Its safety, combined with amenities and cultural offerings, makes it attractive to remote professionals and families alike.
Nicknamed the “Pearl of the South,” Encarnación offers a beach-like riverside experience, colorful carnival celebrations, and a growing café and dining scene. It’s ideal for those who want a peaceful city with reliable infrastructure and friendly locals.
4. Villarrica
Population: 56,000 | Distance from Asunción: 95 mi (153 km) east
The Aguara’i—a symbol of Villarrica’s natural beauty and peaceful countryside. Photo by
Jamile Cesar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Villarrica is a secure and peaceful town, often highlighted among the safest places to live in Paraguay. The local community is tight-knit, and crime is rare, making it a safe choice for families and remote professionals.
Villarrica’s historic center, nearby hills, and rivers offer cultural attractions and outdoor activities, including hiking, traditional crafts, and local festivals. It balances the calm of small-town life with access to necessary amenities.
Discover more in our 10 Best Places to Live in Paraguay guide.
Piribebuy’s historic charm adds to its reputation as a quiet and safe town.
5. Piribebuy
Population: 28,000 | Distance from Asunción: 51 mi (82 km) southeast
Piribebuy is known for its safety and serene environment, appealing to retirees and families seeking a slower pace.
Its low crime rate and friendly community make it a top choice among Paraguay’s safe towns.
The town is rich in history, with landmarks such as Ñandejará Guasu Church and small museums, alongside the scenic Piribebuy River.
Surrounded by untouched countryside, it offers outdoor adventures and a tranquil lifestyle.
6. Atyrá
Population: 18,000 | Distance from Asunción: 44 mi (71 km) northeast
Atyrá—famous for leather craftsmanship and considered one of Paraguay’s safest towns. Photo by Veronica83 – Own work, Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Atyrá is a small, safe town with a focus on craftsmanship and culture. Its secure neighborhoods, low crime rate, and welcoming locals make it a peaceful haven for families and remote professionals.
The town is celebrated for wood carving traditions, local artisan markets, and a community-focused lifestyle. For those seeking calm and safety close to the capital, Atyrá is an ideal choice.
Explore more countries on our Latin America Residency Map.
Peaceful sunset in Nueva Colombia District—rural beauty and low crime make it an appealing place to live.
7. Nueva Colombia District
Population: 10,000 | Distance from Asunción: 42 mi (69 km) northeast
Nueva Colombia District is a modern, up-and-coming area with low crime, making it one of the safest places to live in Paraguay.
It’s growing in popularity among remote professionals and families who want a secure, suburban environment.
Residents enjoy modern infrastructure, gated communities, and proximity to nature, while still being within easy reach of Asunción.
The area offers a good balance between safety, convenience, and lifestyle.
8. Asunción
Population: 525,000 | Distance: Capital city
Asunción skyline from Herrera—a mix of urban convenience and safe living. Photo by
Overkill53, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Asunción, Paraguay’s capital, includes several neighborhoods ranked among the safest places to live in Paraguay, such as Villa Morra, Carmelitas, Recoleta, and Ykua Satî.
While busy areas may see pickpocketing or petty theft, these districts are well-patrolled and community-oriented, making them suitable for remote professionals, families, and retirees.
Beyond safety, Asunción offers cafés, co-working spaces, cultural events, parks, and international schools, giving residents both convenience and a lively urban lifestyle.
If you’re focused on the capital, check out our ultimate guide to living in Asunción.
Safest Towns in Paraguay at a Glance
| Town / City | Population | Location | Safety Highlights | Lifestyle Perks |
| Areguá | 83,028 | 24 mi (39 km) E of Asunción, on Lake Ypacaraí | Low violent crime: strong community feel | UNESCO-recognized crafts, Strawberry Festival, lakeside views |
| San Bernardino | 20,491 | 44 mi (71 km) SE of Asunción, on Lake Ypacaraí | Popular resort town; generally peaceful | Water sports, galleries, museums, cultural events |
| Encarnación | 120,000 | 249 mi (399 km) S of Asunción on the Paraná River | Low crime; quiet border town | Scenic riverfront, beach-like atmosphere, expat-friendly |
| Pilar | 32,810 | 235 mi (378 km SW of Asunción, along Paraguay River | Low violent crime | Parks, fishing tournaments, Fiesta Hawaiana festival |
| Villarrica | 60,000 | 94 mi (153 km) SE of Asunción | Low crime; tight-knit community | Colonial architecture, universities, cultural events |
| Piribebuy | 28,000 | 51 mi (82 km) SE of Asunción | Safe, small-town environment | Historical landmarks, rivers, countryside retreats |
| Atyrá | 16,000 | 44 mi (71 km) NE of Asunción | Very safe; family-friendly | Artisan town, scenic hills, peaceful community |
| Nueva Colombia District | 7,000 | 43 mi (69 km) NE of Asunción | Low crime | Small community, quiet lifestyle, rural charm |
| Asunción (Neighborhoods) | Varies | Capital city | Safe neighborhoods: Villa Morra, Carmelitas, Recoleta | Urban amenities, international schools, restaurants |
💥 While these are among the top safest places to live in Paraguay, there are many other towns and rural areas across the country that also offer a secure, welcoming environment. Safety in Paraguay often comes down to community connection and local awareness, so don’t overlook smaller destinations that may suit your lifestyle just as well.
Everyday scenes of urban maintenance in Asunción, Paraguay’s capital city!
Regional Safety Differences: Border vs Interior Towns
Before deciding where to settle, it’s helpful to understand how safety in Paraguay can vary by region. While most of the country is peaceful and community-oriented, border towns tend to see more petty crime and smuggling activity, whereas interior towns and central districts are known for their calm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The chart below highlights these regional safety differences to help you choose the area that best fits your comfort level and lifestyle.
| Region | Typical Safety Level | Notes |
| Asunción (central districts) | Moderate | Petty theft and occasional robbery can occur in outer neighborhoods, but central areas like Villa Morra, Recoleta, and Carmelitas are among the safest and most walkable places to live in Paraguay. |
| Interior towns (Areguá, San Bernardino, Encarnación, Pilar, Villarrica, Piribebuy, Atyrá) | High | These smaller communities have low crime rates, strong neighborhood ties, and a relaxed lifestyle — ideal for families and remote professionals seeking the safest places to live in Paraguay. |
| Border cities (Ciudad del Este, Pedro Juan Caballero, Salto del Guairá) | Lower | While vibrant for commerce, border areas face more petty crime and smuggling activity. Exercise extra caution at night and stay within known residential or expat zones. |
| Departments with increased risk | Variable | Areas within Alto Paraná, Amambay, Canindeyú, Concepción, and San Pedro may experience higher petty crime or sporadic unrest in rural zones. Vigilance is recommended when traveling through these regions. |
Looking for a deeper dive into all the best areas to live in Paraguay? Don’t miss our Guide: 10 Best Places to Live in Paraguay.
Practical Safety Tips for Living in Paraguay
Even in the safest places to live in Paraguay, newcomers should take common-sense precautions:
- Avoid flashy jewelry and expensive electronics in public.
- Use trusted transport like Uber instead of hailing taxis from the street.
- Be cautious at ATMs; preferably use ones inside banks.
- Learn basic Spanish—it improves communication and personal safety.
- Pay attention to traffic hazards, unfinished sidewalks, and cobbled roads, especially in smaller towns.
By understanding these safety tips, you can choose the safest places to live in Paraguay that align with your lifestyle, whether you’re a remote professional seeking connectivity, a family looking for a tranquil environment, or a retiree seeking peace of mind.
Evenings in Paraguay—peaceful, though staying alert after dark is always wise.
Healthcare, Infrastructure & Daily Safety in Paraguay
Safety is more than crime stats—reliable healthcare, roads, and utilities matter.
Healthcare:
• Public hospitals exist but can be overcrowded. Most expats use private hospitals: Sanatorio Migone, Centro Médico La Costa, Hospital Bautista.
• Costs: insurance $50–$150/month; doctor $20–$50; emergency $50–$100.
• Emergency numbers: Police 911, Fire 131, Ambulance 141.
Roads & Infrastructure:
• Urban streets are mostly good; rural roads can be bumpy.
• Public transport is unreliable; Uber or taxis are safer.
• Expect unpredictable drivers; watch out for pedestrians and unfinished sidewalks.
• Power outages are occasional; city water is generally safe, but filtered water is best.
Environmental Safety:
• Seasonal flooding in low-lying areas.
• Extreme heat in summer (100°F+).
• Dengue outbreaks—mosquito repellent is essential.
Community Safety & Cultural Awareness:
• Paraguayans are warm and non-aggressive.
• Basic Spanish fluency helps you navigate safely.
• Solo female travelers: avoid walking alone at night; rely on trusted transport.
• Respect local customs, dress conservatively outside urban areas, and engage with your community.
Finding Your Safe Haven in Paraguay
Exploring the safest places to live in Paraguay isn’t just about checking crime statistics—it’s about discovering communities where you feel secure, connected, and truly at home.
From the charming lakeside towns of San Bernardino and Areguá to the vibrant yet manageable interior hubs like Villarrica, Piribebuy, and Atyrá, Paraguay offers a range of options for remote professionals, families, and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Even within Asunción, neighborhoods such as Villa Morra, Recoleta, and Carmelitas provide safe, walkable environments where daily life feels calm and predictable.
By focusing on these carefully selected towns and neighborhoods, you can enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, cultural richness, and welcoming community that make Paraguay one of the top destinations for those searching for the safest places to live in South America.
Whether you’re planning a short-term move or setting roots long-term, knowing where to live can make all the difference in creating a secure, enjoyable, and enriching life in Paraguay.
Use our Latin America Residency Map to explore safe countries that match your lifestyle priorities.
FAQ – Safest Places to Live in Paraguay
Are there safe places to live in Paraguay for expats and remote professionals?
Yes! Paraguay has many safe towns and cities suitable for expats, families, and remote professionals. Crime is generally low, especially in well-populated towns and gated communities. Popular safe areas include Asunción neighborhoods like Villa Morra and Carmelitas, the lakeside town of San Bernardino, and the Paraná River town of Encarnación.
What are the safest cities to live in Paraguay?
Some of the safest cities and towns in Paraguay include Encarnación, San Bernardino, Pilar, Villarrica, Piribebuy, and Atyrá. These areas are known for low crime rates, a strong community feel, and a relaxed lifestyle. Asunción has safe neighborhoods as well, such as Villa Morra, Carmelitas, and Recoleta.
Is Paraguay safe for families and retirees?
Absolutely. Many families and retirees are drawn to Paraguay for its slower pace of life, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. Smaller towns and cities like Encarnación, San Bernardino, and Piribebuy offer peaceful environments with excellent community networks, perfect for family life or retirement.
Are rural areas in Paraguay safer than the cities?
In general, yes. Rural Paraguay tends to have very low crime rates and a strong sense of community. However, healthcare access and infrastructure may be limited, so rural living is best for those comfortable with a quieter, more self-sufficient lifestyle.