Crime continues historic decline as homicide rates approach century lows

Homicide rates in 30 U.S. cities declined by 18% in the first half of 2026, with 215 fewer killings compared to the same period in 2025, continuing a trend of historic lows since the pandemic-era surge in 2022. A Council on Criminal Justice report notes the decline spans diverse cities but warns no single policy or factor explains the drop, which may be influenced by macro-level forces like criminal justice changes and social shifts.