Summary
In 2024, the United States saw its lowest violent and property crime rates in 20 years, based on new data from the FBI. This drop follows a previous surge in crime during the COVID-19 pandemic, contradicting claims of a nationwide crime increase. Data from early 2025 suggests these crime rates may continue to fall.
Key Facts
- The violent crime rate in 2024 was 359.1 incidents per 100,000 people.
- This is the lowest violent crime rate since 2014, when it was 372.4 per 100,000 people.
- Property crime rate in 2024 fell to 1760.1 per 100,000 people.
- Violent crime overall decreased by 4.5% from 2023 to 2024.
- Murder and non-negligent manslaughter rates dropped by 14.9% in the same period.
- Automobile thefts fell by 18.6%.
- The U.S. saw significant decreases in crime despite a 5% drop in police staffing over five years.
- Investments in community infrastructure are credited with helping crime rates decline.
