America’s Murder Capitals: A 2025 Ranking of the Deadliest Cities

Some stories are hard to tell, but that doesn’t mean we should look away. Across the U.S., there are cities where violence has taken root in heartbreaking ways—places where the sound of sirens is part of the daily rhythm, where families mourn far too often, and where life can feel uncertain even on the sunniest day.

It’s heavy, no doubt. But there are also sparks of resilience. Communities pushing back. For starters, regionally, cities like Washington, D.C., reported 7% decrease in homicides year-to-date, as of April of 2025, as per MPDC.

Nevertheless, today we’re looking at the cities with the highest murder rates in the country in the year of 2025. Not to sensationalize—but to face the reality head-on.

Numbers only tell part of the story. Behind every statistic is a human life, a neighborhood, a system that shaped both.

Some cities are struggling under decades of neglect and inequality. Others are battling new waves of violence they never expected.

So, no, it’s not all doom and gloom. It’s about seeing what’s really happening and asking better questions. Because if we’re ever going to help things change, we’ve got to start with the truth—even the painful parts.

St. Louis remains the city with the highest murder rate in America, and is still considered “murder capital of the US.”

Other cities are not lagging too far behind, even though there are signs of improvements in 2025. Let’s take a closer look.

Note: Complete data for 2024 is not available for all cities on the list. As soon as the data gets published, we will update the post.

20. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, with its rich history and culture, has a murder rate of 14.9 per 100k, as per Sirix Monitoring. It’s a city of contrasts, where Southern charm meets urban crime, and some neighborhoods are best to be avoided.

A Quick Look

Homicides in 2025

According to Atlanta News First, there have been 30 homicides in 2025 so far (as of May 3, 2025), compared to 46 by the same date in 2024 — a 35% decrease year-over-year

Murder and Violent Crime Rates in Atlanta

The overall violent crime rate in Atlanta, including murder, saw a decrease by 2023, as per the Law Office of Delisa Williams PC.

Homicide Rates in Georgia

Georgia, as a whole, reports an overall violent crime rate of 364.3 per 100,000 residents, which is slightly below the national average. The state has seen lower rates of violent crimes like murder in comparison to other forms of crime like aggravated assault, which occurs at a rate of 277.5 per 100,000 residents, Georgia Bureau of Investigation reports.

2024 Summary and Early 2025 Trends

As Fox5 Atlanta reports, by January 2025, Atlanta officials reported significant decreases in various crime categories, including a 29% reduction in vehicle thefts and a 15% decrease in robberies.

Despite the overall decline, isolated violent incidents have occurred. For instance, on January 29, 2025, a fatal shooting was reported at 1200 Gun Club Rd NW, Atlanta PD reports.

19. Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., has a murder rate of 17.0 per 100k. Despite its political significance, it’s a city that struggles with violence.

A Quick Look

Here’s what’s been going on past several years:

Comparison to 2023

Last year, D.C. experienced its highest homicide rate in 26 years, with 274 homicides recorded in 2023. This placed the city among the top five highest murder rates in the nation’s largest cities, as the Washington Post reported.

2024 Summary and Early 2025 Murders in Washington D.C.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, in 2024, the city experienced a notable decline in violent crime, reaching its lowest levels in over 30 years. Total violent crime decreased by 35% compared to 2023, with homicides dropping by 32% (from 274 in 2023 to 187 in 2024).

As of early February 2025, Washington, D.C. has reported 15 homicides, marking a 36% increase from the 11 homicides recorded during the same period in 2024, Metropolitan Police reports.

Homicides in the First Half of 2025

In May alone, there were 20 homicides, bringing the cumulative total to 69, as per the Washington Post.

Violent Crime Trend in 2025

As we get into the seventh month of 2025, violent crime in Washington, D.C. is down by 22%, according to WUSA9.

18. Oakland, CA

Oakland, part of the Bay Area’s tech hub, has a murder rate of 17.1 per 100k. The city’s innovation is shadowed by its crime issues.

A Quick Look

Decrease in Homicides

The report from the Oakland Police Department indicate a reduction in the number of homicides in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The overall crime rate has also shown a decline.

Fruitvale Crime Suppression Efforts

This program contributed to a 43% reduction in robberies and a 25% drop in aggravated assaults in that area, according to the City of Oakland.

13% drop in homicides compared to the average of the previous three years – Between January and mid-August 2024, Oakland recorded 59 homicides, 12 fewer than the same time in 2023 – OaklandSide

2024 Full Year Homicide Statistics

Final count: 86 homicides, marking a significant reduction from 126 homicides in 2023 — a 32% decrease year-over-year, as per FOX KTVU.

2025 Preliminary / Partial Year Homicide Statistics for Oakland

• The first homicide of 2025 occurred on January 1, according to KTVU.
• In Q1 2025, there were 23 homicides, up from 20 during the same timeframe in 2024 — a 15% increase, according to Hoodline.
• As of May 12, 2025, Oakland had recorded 31 homicides, compared to 28 at the same point in 2024, the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

17. Louisville, KY

Louisville, known for the Kentucky Derby, has a murder rate of 17.5 per 100k. It’s a place where the stakes are high in more ways than one.

End of 2024 and Early 2025

In 2024, Louisville, Kentucky, experienced a slight decrease in homicides compared to the previous year. The city recorded at least 143 homicides in 2024, down from 146 in 2023, WLKY reports.

According to LMPD’s report published on February 4, 2025, there have been 14 criminal non-fatal shootings year-to-date, representing a 55% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, which had 31 incidents.

Louisville Homicide Data (2025)

According to a March 2025 report from local news, Louisville Metro Police report 10 homicides so far this year, compared to 16 at the same point in 2024 and 25 by this time in 2023.

This reflects a notable downward trend:

• 2023: 25 homicides by this time
• 2024: 16 homicides by this time
• 2025: 10 homicides by this time

16. Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis, famous for the Indy 500, has a murder rate of 17.7 per 100k. It’s a city where the race against crime is ongoing, while the crime rates are growing. Still, there have been some positive trends lately:

A Quick Look

2024 Summary and Early 2025 Trends

In 2024, Indianapolis reported 209 homicides, marking a decrease from previous years but still exceeding 200 homicides for the fifth consecutive year, as per Fox59.

According to IndyStar, within the first 48 hours of 2025, Indianapolis recorded its initial homicides. On January 2, a shooting on the southeast side resulted in one death and two injuries.

Approximately eight hours later, another fatal shooting occurred on the north side.

Quarterly Homicide Data for 2025

According to the Major Cities Chiefs Association, comparing January–March quarters:

• Homicides fell from 40 (Q1 2024) to 33 (Q1 2025) in Indianapolis Metro.
• This aligns with a broader national trend of decline in homicides among major U.S. cities during that period.

Early 2025 Trends

• Through February 2025, the city was experiencing its lowest homicide count since 2019, FOX News reported.
• NPR/WTHR letters report a ~11% drop through much of 2024 compared to 2023, with ~110 homicides to date by late 2024.

15. Tulsa, OK

Tulsa’s murder rate stands at 18.6 per 100k. Known for its oil industry, Tulsa also has its share of violent crime issues.

2024 Summary and Early 2025 Trends

Tulsa Police reported that in 2024, Tulsa, Oklahoma, experienced a total of 50 homicides, all of which were successfully solved, achieving a 100% clearance rate.

This figure represents a slight increase from the 48 homicides reported in 2023.

In January 2025, Tulsa recorded multiple homicides, including a case near 1st and Utica where a man was found deceased with injuries indicative of assault. An arrest was made in connection with this incident, Speaker reports.

Trend Overview

Early 2025 (Q1) Murder Statistics for Tulsa, OK

• From January 1 to March 31, 2025, Tulsa Police reported 15 homicides, down from 17 in the same period of 2024, as per Major Cities Chiefs Association data.

14. Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, with a murder rate of 18.4 per 100k, is more than just steel and bridges. It’s a city grappling with crime like many others on this list.

Historical Context

Historical trends show variations in Pittsburgh’s murder rate. For example, in 2018, the city’s murder rate was 18.8 per 100,000 population, which was a 4.4% decrease from the previous year, Pittsburgh Quarterly reports.

Total 2024 Murder Statistics

Here are the statistics for 2024, as per RIT:

• Total homicides: 42 in the City of Pittsburgh, down from 43 in 2023 (approximately a 2.3% decrease).
• Homicide rate: About 13.8 per 100,000 residents, compared to roughly 14.2/100k in 2023.
• Clearance rate: According to WPXI, Pittsburgh Police solved 23 of the 42 cases (54.8%), below the national average (~57.8%).

First Quarter 2025 (Jan 1–Mar 31)

• Homicides recorded: 9 compared to 11 in Q1 2024 — showing an early decrease.

13. Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee has a murder rate of 20.0 per 100k. It’s a city known for its brewing history, but unfortunately, it also has a significant crime problem.

A Quick Look

Decline in Homicides

As of October 8th, 2024, homicides in Milwaukee have decreased by 21% compared to the same period in 2023. This is part of a broader decline in violent crime in the city, including a 22% reduction in nonfatal shootings, Evan Casey from WPR reports.

Comparative Reduction

Compared to two years ago, homicides in Milwaukee have dropped nearly 50%. The reduction is also 23% lower than the same time last year, showcasing a substantial improvement over recent years, judging by the reports from Wisconsin Public Radio.

Contextual Analysis

Reports from Urban Milwaukee claim that although Milwaukee has experienced a reduction in overall homicides, certain areas, such as domestic violence-related homicides, have seen an increase, highlighting specific challenges within the broader trend of declining violence.

End of 2024

According to Spectrum News 1, in 2024, Milwaukee experienced a notable decrease in homicides, with a 23% reduction from 172 in 2023 to 132 in 2024. This marks the lowest number of homicides in the city in five years.

Q1 2025 Update (January–March)

• Total homicides: 25, compared to 23 in Q1 2024 — a 9% year‑over‑year increase, Spectrum News 1 reported.
• According to WISN, this slight uptick comes despite a 12% drop in total Part I crimes and an 18% drop in violent crime overall.

12. Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, known as the City of Brotherly Love, has a murder rate of 20.2 per 100k. It’s a place with a rich history and culture, but safety can be a concern in certain areas.

Significant Drop in Homicides

As of April 30, 2024, there were 87 reported homicides in Philadelphia, which represents a 35% decrease compared to the same period last year, NBC Philadelphia reports.

This is the trend that continued throughout the year, and as of late September this year, homicides decreased by 40% in Philadelphia compared to the same period in 2023.

200 homicides recorded as of late September 2024, down from 341 at the same time last year.

Philadelphia Magazine also states that the city is on pace to end 2024 with 246 homicides, potentially tying with 2013 for the lowest number of homicides in over five decades.

A Quick Look

General Decline in Violent Crime

Philadelphia has seen a general decrease in violent crime rates in 2024, according to WHYY. This trend is consistent with the national decrease in violent crimes.

Encouraging Signs of Decline in Gun Violence

Early data by the Center for American Progress from 2024 shows promising signs of a historic decline in gun violence, contributing to the overall drop in homicides.

2024 Transition Year for Philadelphia

2024 has been marked as a year of significant transition for Philadelphia, with improving economic metrics and declining violent crime rates, but still facing deep-seated issues, sources from Pew Trust claim.

2024 Homicides

According to NBC Philadelpia, Philadelphia recorded 266 homicides in 2024, marking the city’s lowest murder rate in a decade.

January 2025 Homicides

The Philadelphia Police Department reported 16 homicides in January 2025.

 

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Early 2025 Data (First Quarter)

• For Q1 2025 (Jan–Mar), there were 50 homicides, down from 69 in Q1 2024—a ~28% decrease, according to Major Cities Chiefs Association.

Homicides Overview (Jan 1–July 1, 2025)

• 114 homicides, marking a 12.3 % decrease compared to last year, as per Philly Police statistics.

11. Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati, another Ohio city with a notable murder rate of 23.8 per 100k, might be famous for its chili, but safety concerns are also a hot topic.

• Last year, Cincinnati saw a significant number of teen shootings and vehicle thefts, hinting at a high violent crime rate, which could impact 2024 statistics, as per FOX19.

A Quick Look

Latest Homicide Stats

CincyInsights reported some encouraging statistics for the second half of 2024:

• Homicides down 8% by mid-year 2024 compared to 2023, showing a decline in overall violence.
• 64% of homicide cases in 2024 were closed, showing a notable rate of case resolution by the police.
• The city has also seen a focus on reducing shootings through community and police collaborations, with ongoing efforts to address group-related violence.

Homides at the End of 2024

According to Local12, in 2024, Cincinnati recorded 72 homicides, a slight increase from 71 in 2023 and consistent with the 72 reported in 2022.

Q1 2025 Homicide Data

According to the Major Cities Chiefs Association, Cincinnati recorded 15 homicides from January through March 2025—slightly down from 17 in the same period of 2024.

Јune 2025 Monthly Spike

Local reporting (WVXU, June 24, 2025) notes 12 homicides occurred over a recent 28-day period (May 25–June 21), which is triple the number from that same month in 2024.

10. Chicago, IL

Yes, I lived in Chicago, I love this city, but…. with its skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, it has a murder rate of 24.0 per 100k. Despite its many attractions, crime remains a significant issue in certain neighborhoods in this city.

A Quick Look at 2025 Murder Statistics in Chicago

Decrease in Homicides

According to the Chicago Police Department Report, Homicides in Chicago have decreased by approximately 20.9% in the first two months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. There has also been a 15.9% drop in shooting incidents and a 12.5% decline in the number of shooting victims.

Total Homicides Recorded in Chicago in 2024

According to the Chicago Police Department, the city recorded 573 homicides in 2024, marking an 8% decrease from the 620 homicides reported in 2023. This represents the lowest number of homicides since 2019.

Additionally, the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office reported a total of 773 homicides county-wide in 2024, with 603 occurring within the City of Chicago. This reflects a more than 9% decrease in overall homicides in Cook County compared to 2023.

January 2025

According to WTTW, Chicago recorded 38 homicides in January of 2025, marking an 8.6% increase compared to January 2024. In contrast, the number of shootings and shooting victims decreased, with 111 shootings and 130 shooting victims reported—the lowest figures for January since 2019.

Mid-Year Update (2025)

As of a mid‑June report, there were approximately 152 homicides in Chicago so far in 2025.

Projections for 2025 Look Promising

According to Fox 32, Chicago is on track to record fewer than 500 homicides in 2025—an outcome not seen since pre-COVID years.

9. Newark, NJ

Newark has a murder rate of 25.6 per 100k. It’s right across the river from New York City but worlds apart in terms of safety. This says a lot since New York City has some of the most dangerous neighborhoods on the East Coast.

Violent Crimes (January to October 2024)

There was an 11% increase in violent crimes in 2024, compared to the same period in 2023, which includes a rise in aggravated assaults and robberies, though homicide numbers remain relatively stable, according to Newark Public Safety Collaborative.

Youth Curfew and Community Initiatives

According to Chalkbeat, Newark has implemented a youth curfew to help keep teens off the streets and reduce violence. This initiative aims to engage young people with community services and prevent them from becoming involved in criminal activities.

Notable Incidents and Arrests

There have been multiple arrests in Newark following a series of shootings in January 2024. These arrests include both adults and juveniles linked to various incidents of gun violence, according to RLS Media reports.

Overall Violent Crime Arrests

In September 2024 alone, Newark saw 19 arrests for violent crimes, a significant focus of local law enforcement, Newark Public Safety reports.

End of 2024 Homicide Statistics

Newark experienced a 23% decrease in homicides in 2024 compared to 2023, reaching the lowest level since the 1940s, ABC7NY reports.

• Total murders in 2024: 37, down from 48 in 2023 – the lowest homicide total since 1960.
• Murder rate drop: ~23–21% decrease year-over-year.

Mid‑2025 Overview (Jan 1–Jun 22, 2025)

Here are the mid-2025 statistics, as per NPSC:

• Homicides in the first half of 2025: 38% decrease compared to the same period in 2024.
• Violent crime overall is down 25%, driven largely by fewer aggravated assaults and homicides.

Did you know? – New York state has one of the highest numbers of serial killers in the United States.

8. Memphis, TN

Memphis, the birthplace of the blues, is also singing a sad tune with a murder rate of 27.1 per 100k. It’s a city with deep roots in music history but a serious crime issue.

Homicide Count in the First Half of 2024

Within the first 100 days of 2024, Memphis recorded over 100 homicides, as per WREG reports. This rapid increase has prompted city officials to take measures to address the rising crime rate and the rising crime rate in the whole state.

Homicide Decrease in the Second Half of the Year

As of early September 2024, murders in the city have dropped by 21% compared to last year, Daily Memphian reports. Also, by early October 2024, Memphis had recorded 238 homicides.

Gender Breakdown

Fox13 Memphis reports that the number of women killed in Memphis in 2024 has doubled compared to the previous year, with 15 out of the 80 homicides being female victims.

2024 Complete Homicide Statistics

According to the statistics, the city recorded 207 homicides in 2024, (Memphis had the second‑highest number in the U.S. after Los Angeles)

Q1 2025 Memphis Homicide Statistics

Preliminary estimates from the Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA) show that MPD recorded 85 homicides in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 74 in the same period in 2024 — a ~15% increase year-over-year

7. Kansas City, MO

Kansas City, famous for its BBQ, also has a murder rate of 31.2 per 100k and a very high crime rate. It’s a tough place where the smell of smoked meat mixes with the harsh reality of crime.

A Quick Look

Over 100 Homicides Reported in Kansas City Metro

In 2024, there have been 101 homicides reported in the Kansas City metro area. Of these, 75% occurred in Kansas City, Missouri, Kansas City Star reports.

Efforts to Reduce Homicides

KSHB reported that Kansas City is reintroducing a program called “focused deterrence” to help lower the city’s homicide rate. This program aims to reduce violence through community engagement and targeted interventions.

Clearance Rate

69% of homicides have been cleared or solved in 2024, as per the City of Kansas City, MO.

Complete 2024 Homicide Statistics for Kansas City

According to KCUR, In 2024, the city experienced a 20% decrease in homicides, totaling 147, down from 185 in 2023. However, nonfatal shootings rose by nearly 12%, with 571 incidents compared to 511 the previous year.

Early 2025 Incidents

KCPD reports that as of February 4, 2025, Kansas City, Missouri, has reported 15 homicides. This is a significant increase compared to the same date in 2024, which had 5 homicides.

6. Las Vegas, NV

What happens in Vegas… might not be all fun and games. With a murder rate of 31.4 per 100k, Las Vegas shows that a city known for entertainment can have a very dangerous underbelly and crime rate.

Overall Crime Rate Trends

In 2024, Las Vegas experienced a general trend of decreasing violent crimes. Specifically, the murder rates have shown a decline compared to previous years, Las Vegas Review-Journal reports.

Total Homicides

As of mid-October 2024, there have been 110 homicides in Las Vegas. This is a notable increase compared to the same period in 2023, where the city had experienced a slightly lower count, according to LVMPD.

However, Clearance Rates Remain Solid…​

According to Nevada Crime Stats, Las Vegas Police continue to solve more than 90% of homicide cases, maintaining a high clearance rate for more than a decade.

Comparison with Other Cities

According to the World Population Review, in a comparison between Las Vegas and other major cities, it has been noted that Las Vegas has a relatively high homicide rate, ranking it among the top cities with significant murder rates in the United States. This ranking puts Las Vegas in the context of cities like New Orleans and Detroit.

Early 2025 Incidents

As of early February 2025, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) has reported a 16% decrease in violent crime and a 21% reduction in murders for the year 2024, achieving a solve rate of over 90% for homicide cases, as per KNPR.

2025 (Year‑to‑Date)

As News 3 LV reports, as of April 27, 2025, Las Vegas Metro Police had investigated 28 murders, compared to 36 during the same period in 2024.

• 19 of those were confirmed gunshot-related deaths in 2025.
• Another 8 incidents were classified as self‑defense or under review.

According to the Major Cities Chiefs Association, during Q1 2025 (Jan 1–Mar 31), the Las Vegas Metro Police recorded 22 homicides, down from 30 in Q1 2024.

5. Cleveland, OH

Cleveland, home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, also boasts a high murder rate of 33.7 per 100k. It’s a city with a lot to offer, but it also has its fair share of problems.

A Quick Look

Significant Decrease in Homicides

Overall, murders in Cleveland were down by 37% as of late September 2024 compared to the previous year, according to the City of Cleveland.

Youth Violence Increase

Despite the overall drop in homicides, there has been an increase in youth violence, Cleveland.com reports.

Comparison with Other Cities

While Cleveland saw a drop in homicides, other Ohio cities like Cincinnati and Toledo experienced increases in their homicide rates during the same period, as per Spectrum News.

Complete Homicide Statistics for 2024

In Cleveland, Ohio, there have been reported 105 homicides throughout the year of 2024, marking the lowest number in five years and a significant decrease from the 180 homicides recorded in 2020, as per Ideastream Public Media.

Early 2025 Statistics

As of January 22, 2025, Cleveland, Ohio, has reported eight homicides, a figure consistent with the same period in previous years, WKYC reports.

First Quarter 2025 (Jan–Mar)

Q1 homicides: 18 incidents, down from 24 during the same period in 2024 — based on data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association.

4. Detroit, MI

Detroit has struggled with crime for years. With a murder rate of 39.7 per 100k, it’s one of the most dangerous cities in the U.S. The city’s economic hardships have certainly played a role in this grim statistic.

A Quick Look

Homicide Numbers in 2024

The City of Detroit released statistics regarding the homicide and crime numbers for 2024. Some of the statistics are encouraging:

• Homicides decreased by 21% during the summer months of 2024 (Memorial Day to Labor Day), continuing a downward trend in violent crime.
• The year-to-date homicide rate is down by 25.6% in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
• Non-fatal shootings also fell by 24% over the summer months, paralleling the decline in homicides.
• The total number of criminal homicides reported as of September 2024 was 101, compared to 121 in 2023—a reduction of 16.5%.
• Detroit’s crime rate overall is down, with violent crimes showing significant reductions, particularly homicides and shootings, due in part to community interventions and police efforts​.

Complete Statistics for 2024

The city recorded 203 criminal homicides in 2024, a 19% reduction from 252 in 2023, marking the fewest homicides since 1965, as per the City of Detroit.

2025 Q1 & Early Data

According to the Detroit Police Department, there are indications from local postings that criminal homicides continued to decline into early 2025, with about 16 % fewer compared to the same period in 2024. However, final annual figures for 2025 aren’t yet available.

3. New Orleans, LA

New Orleans, with its jazz and vibrant nightlife, has a dark side, too. The murder rate here is 40.6 per 100k, and the crime rate is very high. The Crescent City might draw you in with its charm, but staying safe should be a priority.

Also Read: New Orleans Crime Rate in 2024

Significant Decrease in Homicides

• Axios reports that in 2024, New Orleans experienced a substantial reduction in its murder rate, with homicides dropping by approximately 40% compared to the previous year.
• The city, which had the nation’s highest homicide rate in 2022, saw one of its biggest turnarounds in 2023 with a 25% drop, continuing the trend into 2024.

Early 2024 Statistics

• As of early March 2024, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) reported 21 homicides, with 20 classified as murders.
• February 2024 saw 11 murders, marking a 42% decrease compared to February 2023 WGNO reports.

Late 2024 Statistics

New Orleans reported 174 homicides as of mid-October 2024, which represents a 19% decrease from the same period in 2023, NOPD News report.

District-Specific Data

According to Metrocrime Crime Bulletin, in 2024, almost half of all homicides occurred in the city’s 5th and 7th districts, which include neighborhoods like the 9th Ward and New Orleans East.

While citywide homicide numbers have decreased, the French Quarter saw a rise in homicides in 2024, with a 5% increase over the previous year.

End of 2024 Statistics

Looking back at 2024, New Orleans experienced a significant reduction in violent crime. According to WWLTV, the city saw a 35% decrease in murders, with 124 homicides reported as of December 28, 2024, compared to 192 during the same period in 2023.

Early 2025 Incidents

A significant incident occurred when a vehicle-ramming attack on Bourbon Street resulted in 14 fatalities and numerous injuries, Reuters reports. This tragic event has notably impacted the city’s homicide figures for the beginning of the year.

New Orleans Homicide Statistics (2025)

Year‑to‑Date (as of June 29, 2025)

• 66 homicide victims reported, a 12% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, as per the Crime Bulletin.
• This is a −51% drop compared with 2023 and a −57% drop from 2022 .

Violent Crime Trend

According to Axios statistics, overall violent crime is down 20% year‑over‑year in 2025.

2. Baltimore, MD

Baltimore comes in second with 51.1 murders per 100k. It’s a city with a lot of history and culture, but sadly, it’s also known for its crime rate. Walking around after dark? Not the best idea.

Homicide Data

WMAR2 News reported that Baltimore recorded 16 homicides and 31 non-fatal shootings in March 2024. The trend shifted slightly as the year progressed.

Homicides in 2024 decreased by 33.8% compared to 2023. According to the Baltimore Police Department, as of July 2024, Baltimore recorded 96 homicides, down from 145 during the same period in 2023. Also, juvenile victims of homicides and non-fatal shootings dropped by 41% in 2024.

Month With Highest Number of Homicides

July 2024 saw the highest number of monthly homicides, with 26 victims. However, July also recorded the lowest number of non-fatal shootings for 2024, as per Baltimore Witness.

Complete 2024 Homicide Statistics

Baltimore has seen a downward trend in violent crime over the past two years. According to the Baltimore Police Department, in 2024, the city reported 201 homicides, a 23% decrease from the previous year, which had 261 homicides.

This followed a 20% reduction in homicides in 2023. Non-fatal shootings also declined by 34% in 2024, with 414 incidents compared to 635 in 2023.

Early 2025 Incidents

In January 2025, Baltimore experienced a series of violent incidents, including multiple shootings and homicides.

According to WMAR Baltimore, notable cases include the fatal shooting of Jamal Davis, a 38-year-old security guard at a McDonald’s on Reisterstown Road, and a triple shooting on York Road that resulted in the death of 52-year-old Antionette Jennings and injuries to an 11-year-old girl and another adult.

Mid‑Year 2025 (first six months) Comparison With 2024

• According to CBS News, total homicides dropped by ~22% – from 88 in the same period of 2024 to 68 in 2025.
• Non‑fatal shootings decreased by ~19% (204 → 164).
• According to WMAR 2 News, in June 2025 alone: 14 homicides and 41 non‑fatal shootings.

 CBS News news also reported that Baltimore Police have ramped up their Group Violence Reduction Strategy and seized more than 1,300 firearms (including 150 ghost guns).

1. St. Louis, MO – Murder Capital of the US

St. Louis is infamous for its high murder rate, sitting at an alarming 69.4 per 100k people. It’s like the Wild West out there. If you’re thinking of visiting, maybe opt for a virtual tour instead.

Many people die in the US on a daily basis, and in St. Louis, it happens on a significant scale.

Significant Decrease in Homicides

According to STLPR St. Louis has experienced its lowest homicide rate in a decade, attributed to targeted investments in crime prevention, intervention, and enforcement.

Total homicides as of late September 2024

According to Spectrum News, 116 homicides were reported, down from 126 in 2023 and 154 in 2022.

Overall Safety

KSDK reported that St. Louis recorded its safest year in a decade, with three consecutive years of declining homicide totals.

Comparative Data

For comparison, St. Louis had the highest homicide rate among U.S. cities for seven straight years before the recent decline. Sadly, this trend continued.

Homicides by Gender

Out of the victims, at least 156 men and 26 women have been killed in the St. Louis area through mid-September 2024, as per St. Louis Post-Dispatch Graphics.

Complete 2024 Statistics

In 2024, St. Louis experienced a total of 150 homicides, marking the lowest number in 11 years, according to official data from SLMPD. This represents a 15% decrease compared to 2023 and a 31% reduction from 2022.

Early 2025 Incidents

As of early February 2025, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has reported 10 homicides in the city. This figure is lower than the 23 homicides recorded during the same period in 2024, 13 in 2023, and 16 in 2022.

Q1 2025 Homicide Statistics in St. Louis

According to the City of St. Louis:

• January 2025: Homicides dropped by roughly 55% compared to January 2024.
• Through Q1 2025 (as of March 31): Homicides remained 45% lower year-over-year, signaling continued declines.

Contributing Factors to These Grim Statistics

Socio-Economic Conditions

Poverty and lack of opportunities often go hand in hand with higher crime rates. In cities like Detroit and Cleveland, economic decline has left many residents in dire straits, leading to an increase in criminal activities as a means of survival.

Gang Activity

Gang violence remains a significant problem in many urban areas. Cities like Chicago and Baltimore struggle with gang-related crimes, which significantly inflate their murder rates.

Drug Trade

The drug trade fuels a lot of the violence seen in these cities. Las Vegas and New Orleans, for example, see high murder rates partly due to their roles as hubs for illegal drug trafficking.

Systemic Issues

Long-standing systemic issues, such as racism and poor urban planning, contribute to crime in many of these cities. These deep-rooted problems require comprehensive solutions that go beyond law enforcement.

FAQs

Summarizing Insights on America’s Murder Capitals

The high murder rates in U.S. cities reflect complex, multifaceted issues that require equally comprehensive solutions.  While statistics paint a bleak picture, there are efforts underway to address these problems. Understanding the contributing factors and working towards holistic solutions is key to making our cities safer for everyone.

In the end, it’s about more than just numbers; it’s about people’s lives and the communities they call home.

Our Methodology for This Article:

• First and foremost, I started researching this topic to assist my wife, who is working on her thesis at university on the subject of “Cities with the Highest Murder Rates in the U.S.”
• Secondly, I personally lived for several years in Chicago and Milwaukee, two cities with some of the highest murder rates in the country. That personal experience has been incredibly valuable in shaping my perspective and contributing to my writing on this topic.
• We gathered reliable crime data from multiple reputable sources, including AreaVibes, NeighborhoodScout, city police reports, and public safety databases. This multi-source strategy is very important for a robust and up-to-date dataset.
• To account for population size variations across different cities, we calculated crime rates per capita.
• We examined crime data over recent years to identify patterns, trends, or surges in specific cities.
• We classified crimes into categories such as violent crimes (e.g., murder, assault) and property crimes (e.g., burglary, theft).
• Utilizing geospatial tools, we mapped crime occurrences to visualize spatial distributions and identify hotspots within cities.
• We compared crime rates across different cities and neighborhoods, considering factors such as socioeconomic status, law enforcement practices, and community engagement.

References

• atlantanotguilty.com – Atlanta, GA Crime Rate and Statistics [2024 Updated]
• axios.com – D.C. homicides are declining after last year’s violent crime spike
• washingtonexaminer.com – Capital punishment: DC crime stats in early 2024 could be on track to rebound after deadly 2023
• kron4.com – Here’s what latest data says about Oakland’s crime rates
• wdrb.com – Louisville suffering from violent start to 2024 as March homicides double from a year ago
• wave3.com – Crime statistics show increase in violence, LMPD still short on officers
• fox59.com – Deadly shooting marks 100th homicide of 2024 in Indy
• wrtv.com – Indy surpasses 100 homicides in 2024, on pace for 200-plus homicides for fifth straight year
• kjrh.com – ‘Higher than average’ murders to start 2024, TPD says
• ktul.com – Tulsa Police report solving 95% of homicide cases in 2023, share safety resolutions for 2024
• pittsburghquarterly.com – Murder Rate per 100K Population
• fox6now.com – 2024 Milwaukee crime data; homicides down 39% in 1st quarter of year
• whyy.org – Philly DA predicts record low for violent crime in 2024
• fox19.com – 2023 Cincinnati crime: Record number of teens shootings and vehicle thefts
• chicagotribune.com – Chicago homicides in 2024: 494 people slain. Here’s how that compares with previous years
• patch.com – Double Shooting In Newark Adds To Grim Wave Of Violence
• rlsmedia.com – Multiple Arrests in Newark Following Series of January Shootings
• fox13memphis.com – Number of women killed in Memphis in 2024 so far doubled from last year, data shows
• kansascity.com – Over 100 homicides reported in KC metro so far this year, according to Star data
• reviewjournal.com – The state of crime in Las Vegas: Murders down, auto thefts up 36 percent
• cleveland.com – Homicides in Cleveland dip amid an increase in youth violence, child slayings
• davidleelawfirm.com – Detroit, MI Crime Rates & Statistics [2024 Updated]
• wgno.com – New Orleans Police Department reports decrease in violent crime for early 2024
• thebaltimorebanner.com – Banner analysis: Homicides and shootings are trending further down in 2024
• kdsk.com – St. Louis records safest year in a decade, homicide totals show

2025 Incidents Across America

• July 1st, 2025: yahoo.com – Jackson sees 40% reduction in homicides in first half of 2025 compared to last year
• July 1st, 2025: the-sun.com – Son stabs mom’s boyfriend 17 times and douses him with lighter fluid’ in fatal showdown over cooking steaks at dinner
• July 1st, 2025: people.com – 2 Charged in Murder of TikTok Influencer Who Posted Final Video at the Same Beach Where He Died
• July 1st, 2025: ctinsider.com – Raul Valle admits stabbing James McGrath and 3 others at party
• July 1st, 2025: people.com – Determined Sibling Solved Mystery of Sister’s Murder After 9‑Day Search. Her Brother‑in‑Law Is Now in Jail
• June 30th, 2025: washingtonpost.com – Victim, 82, dies weeks after antisemitic firebomb attack in Boulder, suspect charged with murder
• June 30th, 2025: wsj.com – Suspect in Colorado Fire Attack Charged With Murder After Victim Dies From Injuries
• June 28th, 2025: lmtonline.com – Alleged Mexican Mafia captain facing murder charge after reported rape claim in court
• June 28th, 2025: cdcr.ca.gov – Salinas Valley State Prison Investigating Death of an Incarcerated Person as a Homicide
• June 25th, 2025: people.com – She Tried to Escape Boat Launch But Was Mortally Wounded – Then Police Allegedly Found Her Ex with a Gun in the Woods
• June 25th, 2025: justice.gov – San Juan County Man Indicted for Second Degree Murder
• June 24th, 2025: dhs.gov – ICE Arrests Criminal Illegal Alien Fugitive Wanted for Murdering a Mexican Law Enforcement Official
• June 17th, 2025: reuters.com – Suspect in shootings of Minnesota lawmakers caught and charged with murder
• June 16th, 2025: coronaca.gov – Shooting leads to gang‑related murder investigation
• June 16th, 2025: washingtonpost.com – Shooting suspect allegedly went to other lawmakers’ homes during rampage
• June 11th, 2025: cdcra.ca.gov – High Desert State Prison Officials Investigating the Death of an Incarcerated Person as a Homicide
• June 6th, 2025: cdcra.ca.gov – Kern Valley State Prison Officials Investigating Death of Incarcerated Person as a Homicide