U.S. homicide rate set to hit historic low in 2026

3 min read

Data from the Council on Criminal Justice show reported homicides across 30 cities were 18% lower in the first half of 2026 versus the same period in 2025, a drop that equates to 215 fewer deaths. CCJ estimated that the U.S. homicide rate in 2025 fell to about 4 per 1,000 people, which would be the lowest since 1900 if FBI data confirm it; the new midyear update suggests further improvement. Reported homicides are 51% below the first-half 2022 peak and 31% below first-half 2019, with most sample cities declining while a few, including Austin, saw increases. Carjacking, residential burglary and motor vehicle theft also declined, and CCJ urges research-backed policy responses.

Reported homicides fell 18% in the first half of 2026.