The safest countries in South America are not always the ones people expect.
If safety is high on your list when choosing where to live or buy in South America, the most widely used benchmark is the Global Peace Index (GPI), published each year by the Institute for Economics & Peace. It combines 23 indicators — from homicide and violent crime to political instability and conflict — for 163 countries.
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The safest countries in South America in 2026
In the 2026 edition, the top South American countries were:
- 1. Uruguay — 43rd in the world, the most peaceful country in all of Latin America and the Caribbean.
- 2. Chile — 52nd.
- 3. Paraguay — 64th.
- 4. Argentina — 72nd.
Rankings move from year to year: in the 2025 edition, Argentina (46th) was narrowly ahead of Uruguay (48th). What stands out about Uruguay is its consistency — it has been at or near the top of the region for most of the index’s history.
Why Uruguay ranks so highly
- Institutions: the only full democracy in South America and the least corrupt country in Latin America — see why Uruguay is Latin America’s most stable country.
- Low political risk: peaceful transfers of power and policies that change gradually.
- Social cohesion: the largest middle class in the region and low inequality.
Peaceful does not mean crime-free
Every country on this list has crime. Uruguay’s homicide rate has risen over the past decade, driven mainly by disputes between local gangs in specific neighbourhoods. We cover the real numbers, and the safest places to live, in is Uruguay safe?.
What safety means for property buyers
For people buying a home, “safe” means more than street crime. It means secure property rights, honest land registries and courts that enforce contracts. That institutional safety is where Uruguay has the clearest advantage — and why foreigners can buy property on the same terms as citizens with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
What are the top 3 safest countries in South America?
In the Global Peace Index 2026: Uruguay, Chile and Paraguay.
Which is safer, Uruguay or Argentina?
In 2026 Uruguay ranked considerably higher on the Global Peace Index (43rd vs 72nd), although the two were close in 2025. Both are among the safer options in the region.
Where is the safest place to live in Uruguay?
Areas such as Carrasco and Punta Carretas in Montevideo, and Punta del Este, La Barra and José Ignacio on the coast — see where expats live in Uruguay.
The safest countries in South America: key takeaways
On the 2026 Global Peace Index the safest countries in South America were Uruguay, Chile, Paraguay and Argentina, with Uruguay the most peaceful country in all of Latin America and the Caribbean. Rankings move year to year, but Uruguay’s consistency — and its strong institutions — matter most for anyone buying property or settling long term.
Related reading
- Best country to retire in 2026: the top 10
- Is Uruguay safe? An honest guide
- Why Uruguay?
- Moving to Uruguay
- Where do Americans live in Uruguay?
- Investing in Uruguay