FBI reports 9.3% drop in violent crime, murders down 18.1% in 2025

The FBI reported on Friday that violent crime in the United States saw a record decrease in 2025, with the overall rate dropping by 9.3% compared to the previous year. The rate of murder and nonnegligent manslaughter fell even more dramatically, decreasing by 18.1%. This marks the largest year-to-year decline in both categories since the FBI began tracking these statistics in 1936.

This significant drop in crime comes after a spike in violence in 2022, prompting renewed focus on public safety. President Donald Trump highlighted the statistics during a speech to law enforcement officers in Garden City, New York, claiming, “We achieved the single largest reduction in violent crime in American history.” FBI Director Kash Patel noted that the 2025 murder rate of 4.1 per 100,000 residents is tied for the lowest since the agency began its estimations. The report indicated an estimated 1,119,768 violent crimes and 14,085 murders occurred in 2025.

In addition to the overall decline in violent crime, the report also highlighted other encouraging trends. Reported rapes dropped by 7.6%, robberies decreased by 18.5%, and aggravated assaults fell by 7.5%. Property crimes also saw a notable decline, with an overall drop of 12.4%. Burglaries fell by 15.8%, while motor vehicle thefts decreased by approximately 22%. However, not all statistics were positive; assaults on law enforcement officers increased by 13.8%, with 90,178 officers assaulted in the line of duty, marking a 10-year high.

Looking ahead, preliminary trends for 2026 suggest that crime rates may continue to decline. The analysis, which relies on data from over 17,000 law enforcement agencies, indicates an ongoing commitment to public safety and effective crime reduction strategies. The continued decrease in crime rates is significant for communities across the country, as it may foster a greater sense of security and trust in law enforcement.