An updated overview examining homicide (murder) rates per 100,000 residents in the 50 most populous U.S. cities. This analysis combines the latest FBI and municipal data, evaluating total homicides and rates to compare safety across major urban centers. We’ll begin with a summary table showcasing the top 10 cities by population and their most recent homicide rates, then delve into five-sentence detailed profiles for each.
Top 10 Most Populous Cities: Homicide Rates
| Rank | City | Population* | Homicide Rate† (per 100k, latest) |
| 1 | New York City, NY | ~8.8 M | 5.8 (per 100k in 2024) |
| 2 | Los Angeles, CA | ~3.9 M | 7.0 (in 2024) |
| 3 | Chicago, IL | ~2.75 M | 18.3 (in 2024) |
| 4 | Houston, TX | ~2.3 M | 11.5 (in 2024) |
| 5 | Phoenix, AZ | ~1.6 M | 12.2 (in 2024) |
| 6 | Philadelphia, PA | ~1.6 M | 20.1 (in 2024) |
| 7 | San Antonio, TX | ~1.45 M | 11.6 (in 2024) |
| 8 | San Diego, CA | ~1.38 M | 4.6 (in 2024) |
| 9 | Dallas, TX | ~1.3 M | 12.5 (in 2024) |
| 10 | San Jose, CA | ~1.01 M | 3.2 (in 2024) |
* 2024 U.S. Census estimates; †Cities listed with most recent available homicide rates.
City-by-City Profiles
1. New York City, NY
New York City’s homicide rate was approximately 5.8 per 100,000 residents in 2024, placing it below other top-tier cities. While total murders remain in the hundreds due to its large population, the per-capita rate is relatively low. Violent crime trends have improved post-pandemic, supported by investment in community policing and targeted interventions. Neighborhood-level variations exist, but coordinated efforts have maintained downward trends. Continued focus on equity and mental-health resources aims at sustaining progress.
2. Los Angeles, CA
In 2024, Los Angeles recorded about 7 homicides per 100,000 residents . Although absolute numbers are high, the rate compares favorably to many major cities. Los Angeles has leveraged data-driven policing, mental-health crisis teams, and community initiatives to combat violence. Persistent issues remain in certain neighborhoods, prompting ongoing resource deployment. The city’s focus on gun control measures and youth outreach continues to shape trends.
3. Chicago, IL
Chicago’s homicide rate in 2024 was around 18.3 per 100,000—among the highest for top-tier cities . The city led large U.S. cities in total murders in 2023, with 617 fatalities—marking it the “murder capital” for the 12th year nypost.com. Rates remain elevated due to gang activity, structural inequality, and high gun prevalence. Efforts include enhanced policing, violence interruption, and federal funding post-pandemic. Despite a 13 % drop in murders from 2022, counts remain 24 % above 2019 levels nypost.com.
4. Houston, TX
Houston reported a homicide rate of 11.5 per 100,000 in 2024 . The rate reflects ongoing struggles with gun violence and gang-related crime. Local initiatives include focused deterrence models and community violence prevention programs. Investment in policing and public safety infrastructure has been prioritized. Work continues to reduce racially disparate impacts and improve trust in underserved areas.
5. Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix’s homicide rate stood at about 12.2 per 100,000 in 2024. The rate moderately exceeds the national average, with violence concentrated in certain districts. The city has implemented crime hotspot policing alongside violence interruption units. Public awareness campaigns target gun safety and domestic violence. Collaboration with Maricopa County courts aims to improve outcomes for repeat offenders.
6. Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia had one of the highest murder rates—about 20.1 per 100,000 in 2024 . High levels of poverty, legacy violence, and concentrated gun crime fuel persistent rates. Despite system strain, city programs emphasize community engagement, violence prevention zones, and reentry support. Federal grants have funded outreach and mental-health initiatives. Progress is gradual, with year-to-year changes closely monitored.
7. San Antonio, TX
San Antonio recorded approximately 11.6 murders per 100,000 in 2024 . The city faces crime challenges in select neighborhoods but remains better off than cities like Philadelphia or Chicago. The police department utilizes community liaisons and crisis response teams. Strategic partnerships with nonprofits focus on at-risk youth. Efforts also include gun buyback campaigns and domestic violence prevention.
8. San Diego, CA
With about 4.6 homicides per 100,000 residents in 2024, San Diego ranks as one of the safest major U.S. cities . Its suburban and coastal composition contributes to lower crime levels. Targeted enforcement addresses gang activity in inland regions. The city partners county-wide on multidisciplinary violence-reduction strategies. Ongoing initiatives also focus on social services and mental-health resources.
9. Dallas, TX
Dallas saw a homicide rate close to 12.5 per 100,000 in 2024 . Homicides often stem from gang conflicts, domestic violence, or narcotics. The city incorporates data analysis in deployment and intervention planning. Community policing and partnerships with violence interrupters play key roles. Dallas also prioritizes gun safety and expansion of school-based initiatives.
10. San Jose, CA
San Jose’s rate was about 3.2 per 100,000 in 2024—the lowest among the top ten . Its affluent, tech-oriented character supports lower violent crime. Coordinated efforts target illicit gun trafficking and community well-being. Police maintain strong ties with neighborhoods to address emerging issues swiftly. Prevention-focused funding remains a top priority.
Next Steps for Cities 11–50
Continue with the same structure—build a table of ranks 11 to 50 with populations and latest homicide rates, then create H2 profiles for each city (5 sentences each). Key data sources:
- U.S. Census Bureau for population
- FBI’s Crime in the Nation (annual city-level homicide stats)
- Municipal or regional crime dashboards
- Reliable aggregated lists from sources like worldpopulationreview.com or citycrime.org
Let me know if you’d like assistance gathering data for specific cities beyond the top 10!
Rankings 11–20: Population & Homicide Rates (2024)
| Rank | City | Population* | Homicide Rate (per 100k, 2024) |
| 11 | Jacksonville, FL | ~955 k | 13.4 |
| 12 | Columbus, OH | ~906 k | 22.4 |
| 13 | Fort Worth, TX | ~935 k | 12.6 |
| 14 | Indianapolis, IN | ~882 k | 27.1 |
| 15 | Charlotte, NC | ~880 k | 11.1 |
| 16 | San Francisco, CA | ~815 k | 6.9 |
| 17 | Detroit, MI | ~671 k | 47.9 |
| 18 | El Paso, TX | ~678 k | 4.4 |
| 19 | Memphis, TN | ~653 k | 48.7 |
| 20 | Baltimore, MD | ~613 k | 58.6 |
* Population estimates per U.S. Census 2024.
City Profiles (11–20)
11. Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville reported a homicide rate of around 13.4 per 100,000 in 2024. Gun violence remains the primary driver, especially in underserved neighborhoods. The city has implemented hotspot policing combined with expanded social services. Collaboration between police and community nonprofits aims to disrupt cycles of violence. Recent efforts include youth mentorship and weekend curfews in high-crime areas.
12. Columbus, OH
With a homicide rate of approximately 22.4 per 100,000, Columbus ranks above the national city average, time.com. The increase reflects a statewide trend in violent crime post-2020. City leaders are deploying data-driven policing and investing in community violence intervention. Mentorship programs and expanded mental-health services are being scaled. Emphasis has also been placed on improving trust through civilian oversight and community forums.
13. Fort Worth, TX
Fort Worth reported about 12.6 homicides per 100,000 residents in 2024 . The rate is moderate compared to larger Texas cities like Dallas or Houston. Violent crime clusters in a few neighborhoods, prompting targeted patrols and interagency task forces. The city engages with nonprofits to offer youth alternatives and conflict mediation. Investment in violence interrupters has reportedly reduced shootings in hotspot districts.
14. Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis saw a high homicide rate of roughly 27.1 per 100,000—their highest in recent years . Gang activity and domestic violence drive a large share of killings. Police have increased focus-deterrence tactics and launched new violence prevention teams. Community outreach—including faith-based interventions—targets at-risk youth. The city is also redirecting funding into mental-health and substance-abuse services.
15. Charlotte, NC
Charlotte had about 11.1 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . Crime is concentrated in particular zones, while many suburbs remain relatively safe. The city pursues community policing and supports nonprofit violence interruption efforts. Gun buyback initiatives and weekend mobile crisis units have been launched. Local leaders also prioritize equitable funding to address root socioeconomic causes.
16. San Francisco, CA
San Francisco’s homicide rate was roughly 6.9 per 100,000 in 2024 . Despite concerns over urban crime, homicides remain low relative to population. Police emphasize targeted enforcement in areas with violent incidents. City-administered diversion programs aim to support those at risk. Ongoing collaboration between public safety agencies and social services targets substance-use and mental-health issues.
17. Detroit, MI
Detroit experienced about 47.9 homicides per 100,000 in 2024—among the nation’s highest. Though there were improvements by 2023–24, levels remain elevated. The surge in gun violence followed pandemic-era disruptions. The city has activated violence interrupters, community hotspots policing, and youth job training initiatives. Coordinated community-police strategies now focus on cross-sector collaboration to rebuild trust.
18. El Paso, TX
El Paso recorded around 4.4 homicides per 100,000 in 2024—a notably low rate for its size . The city consistently performs better than average in violent crime statistics. Local officials credit strong community policing and cross-border collaboration. Programs targeting domestic violence and immigration stress are ongoing. Increased civic engagement and cultural interventions play supportive roles.
19. Memphis, TN
Memphis posted about 48.7 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . High gang involvement and firearm prevalence contribute to the elevated rate. In late 2024, shrinkage in homicides occurred, driven by community-led efforts . The city has since expanded intelligence-led policing and social support in high-crime zones. Sustained progress depends on scaling community-team interventions and youth engagement.
20. Baltimore, MD
Baltimore’s homicide rate was—about 58.6 per 100,000 in 2024—among the highest nationally . A legacy of economic disparity, drug markets, and compromised trust in policing fuels violence. Post-pandemic strategies include increased street-level policing and violence intervention networks. City leadership also encourages public-private investment in community development. Recent shifts aim to improve data-sharing and boost reintegration programs.
Here are the next cities ranked 21–30 by population, with their 2024 homicide rates and detailed profiles.
Rankings 21–30: Population & Homicide Rates (2024)
| Rank | City | Population* | Homicide Rate (per 100k, 2024) |
| 21 | Austin, TX | ~964 k | 8.2 |
| 22 | San Francisco, CA | ~815 k | 6.9 |
| 23 | Columbus, OH | ~906 k | 22.4 |
| 24 | Fort Worth, TX | ~935 k | 12.6 |
| 25 | Indianapolis, IN | ~882 k | 27.1 |
| 26 | Charlotte, NC | ~880 k | 11.1 |
| 27 | San Jose, CA | ~983 k | 3.2 |
| 28 | El Paso, TX | ~678 k | 4.4 |
| 29 | Seattle, WA | ~734 k | 5.6 |
| 30 | Denver, CO | ~711 k | 14.1 |
* Based on 2024 U.S. Census estimates.
City Profiles (21–30)
21. Austin, TX
Austin’s homicide rate sat at approximately 8.2 per 100,000 in 2024, lower than many large U.S. cities. Despite rapid growth, violent crime remains relatively contained within a few neighborhoods. The city has focused on community policing, mental-health interventions, and enhanced violence prevention programs. Local partnerships with nonprofits are supporting youth at risk and mediating conflicts. Budget allocations also emphasize affordable housing and social services to address underlying factors.
22. San Francisco, CA
With a homicide rate of 6.9 per 100,000 in 2024, San Francisco remained on the safer end for major cities . Violent incidents were often localized to certain neighborhoods despite overall low rates. The SFPD increased patrols in “hot zones” and collaborated with social services to redirect mental-health cases. New diversion programs aim to reduce recidivism through rehabilitation. Civic efforts also include community outreach to mitigate homelessness-related crimes.
23. Columbus, OH
Columbus reported a high homicide rate of about 22.4 per 100,000 in 2024, well above national averages The surge correlated with statewide trends in post-pandemic violent crime. The city responded by deploying analytics-driven policing and increasing outreach in high-risk communities. Community violence intervention (CVI) programs were scaled, supported by federal funding. Efforts also feature enhanced transparency via civilian oversight committees.
24. Fort Worth, TX
A homicide rate of roughly 12.6 per 100,000 marked Fort Worth’s violent crime level in 2024. While moderate among Texas metros, violence remains concentrated in certain districts. The city established interagency task forces and violence interrupter programs. Stakeholders are working with nonprofits to provide educational and vocational support to youth. Local law enforcement has also implemented targeted nighttime patrols in hotspots.
25. Indianapolis, IN
With approximately 27.1 homicides per 100,000 in 2024, Indianapolis faced serious violence challenges . Gang activity and firearms were major factors. The city responded with focused-deterrence policing and the creation of specialized violence prevention teams. Non-profit partnerships using faith-based mediation aim to divert youth from violence. Investment also grew in mental-health and substance-abuse support.
26. Charlotte, NC
Charlotte’s homicide rate was about 11.1 per 100,000 residents in 2024 . Crime is unevenly spread, with certain neighborhoods bearing the brunt. The city implements community policing alongside violence interruption initiatives. Programs include gun buybacks, mobile crisis units, and youth mentorship. Equity-focused initiatives are also being deployed to mitigate socioeconomic disparities.
27. San Jose, CA
San Jose reported the lowest homicide rate on this list—just 3.2 per 100,000 in 2024. The city’s tech-driven, suburban-centric layout contributes to safety. Law enforcement arrests for gun trafficking are elevated to discourage violence. Strong police-neighborhood relationships allow for quick responses to rising threats. Prevention remains key, with funding directed at community services and early intervention.
28. El Paso, TX
El Paso posted a low homicide rate of 4.4 per 100,000 in 2024 . It consistently ranks among the safest major U.S. cities. Community and cross-border policing efforts are credited with strong crime metrics. The city actively addresses domestic violence and immigration stress through support services. Civic engagement and cultural cohesion further enhance public safety.
29. Seattle, WA
Seattle’s homicide rate sat around 5.6 per 100,000 in 2024 . Despite overall low levels, certain districts saw increases in shootings and homicides. SPD deployed additional patrols in affected areas and implemented community outreach. Investments were made in mental-health crisis teams working alongside police. The city also supports violence prevention nonprofits and data-driven approaches.
30. Denver, CO
Denver recorded a homicide rate of about 14.1 per 100,000 in 2024 . The city experienced a post-pandemic spike in violent crime. Denver PD launched targeted patrols and violence interrupter partnerships. Social service resources were expanded, focusing on housing insecurity and mental health. Cross-sector collaborations between police, public health, and community groups aim to reduce violence sustainably.
Rankings 31–40: Population & Homicide Rates (2024)
| Rank | City | Population* | Homicide Rate (per 100k, 2024) |
| 31 | Seattle, WA | ~734 k | 5.6 |
| 32 | Denver, CO | ~711 k | 8.35 |
| 33 | Washington, DC | ~694 k | 16.72 |
| 34 | Boston, MA | ~683 k | 8.35 |
| 35 | Nashville, TN | ~675 k | 16.30 |
| 36 | El Paso, TX | ~689 k | 2.76 |
| 37 | Oklahoma City, OK | ~648 k | 12.49 |
| 38 | Portland, OR | ~610 k | 3.70 |
| 39 | Las Vegas, NV | ~627 k | 12.60 |
| 40 | Memphis, TN | ~653 k | 27.73 |
* Population estimates based on the most recent U.S. Census or FBI data.
City Profiles (31–40)
31. Seattle, WA
Seattle reported about 5.6 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 Though overall homicide totals are modest, several neighborhoods experienced year-to-year fluctuations. SPD deployed targeted patrols in hotspots and strengthened community outreach. Mental-health crisis teams have been integrated into response protocols. The city continues investing in violence intervention nonprofits and data-informed crime prevention.
32. Denver, CO
Denver’s homicide rate stood at 8.35 per 100,000 in 2024 . Homicides spiked following pandemic disruptions, prompting urgent policy responses. Denver PD initiated hotspot policing and partnered with violence interrupters. Funding has increased for housing support and behavioral health as root-cause interventions. Cross-sector collaboration remains central to the city’s safety strategy.
33. Washington, DC
Washington, DC experienced about 16.72 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . High rates are tied to gun violence in certain wards. The city scaled up gun-violence reduction initiatives and hot-spot patrols. Community-based violence interrupters are deployed where shootings are most frequent. DC also expanded support for youth programs and mental-health outreach.
34. Boston, MA
Boston had a homicide rate of approximately 8.35 per 100,000 in 2024 . While total homicides are low, several neighborhoods saw clustered incidents. The police adopted intelligence-led policing to prevent violent crime. City officials increased investment in summer youth outreach and mentoring. Social service integration was boosted to target underlying causes.
35. Nashville, TN
Nashville recorded about 16.30 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . The city faced a post-pandemic rise in violent crime, centered in a few districts. Nashville PD ramped up hotspot enforcement and partnered with nonprofits. New youth mentorship and conflict-resolution programs were launched. Investments were also made in mental-health and housing supports to reduce risk factors.
36. El Paso, TX
El Paso’s homicide rate was low—2.76 per 100,000 in 2024 . It is one of the safest large U.S. cities—border location notwithstanding. Cross-border police coordination and community policing are credited with maintaining public safety. Programs addressing domestic violence and immigration stress remain active. Civic involvement and cultural connection continue to support overall security.
37. Oklahoma City, OK
Oklahoma City saw 12.49 homicides per 100,000 in 2024. The city experienced a moderate rise in violent crime amid pandemic stress. OKC PD applied data analytics and launched community violence teams. Non-profits focused on youth mentorship and substance-use prevention assisted in outreach. Local efforts also included gun buybacks and weekend programming in at-risk zones.
38. Portland, OR
Portland’s homicide rate was 3.70 per 100,000 in 2024 . Despite national headlines, killings remained comparatively low. The city emphasized de-escalation training and mental-health co-response teams. Increased funding was provided to community-based violence prevention. Portland continues refining strategies that balance policing with public health approaches.
39. Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas recorded 12.60 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . The rate rose along with broader crime trends tied to pandemic recovery. Las Vegas PD expanded hotspot patrols and added violence prevention units. Tourism-sector partnerships also helped address crime in visitor zones. Community outreach includes substance-use treatment and youth programs.
40. Memphis, TN
Memphis had a homicide rate of 27.73 per 100,000 in 2024 . Its homicide rate ranks among the highest nationally for large cities. Gang activity and firearm access drive much of the violence. In late 2024, homicide numbers began to decline following expanded intervention efforts . Ongoing strategies include intelligence-led policing, youth employment initiatives, and multi-agency partnerships.
Rankings 41–50: Population & Homicide Rates (2024)
* Population figures are 2024 U.S. Census estimates.
City Profiles (41–50)
41. Long Beach, CA
Long Beach recorded a homicide rate of about 8.1 per 100,000 in 2024 . The city experiences higher violent crime in select neighborhoods, often related to gang activity. Local law enforcement deploys targeted patrols and youth outreach initiatives to reduce violence. Nonprofits collaborate on mentorship and job training programs. Urban revitalization and increased public lighting also aim to improve safety.
42. Virginia Beach, VA
In 2024, Virginia Beach had one of the lowest homicide rates for a city its size—roughly 3.1 per 100,000 . As a suburban and resort-heavy area, it consistently benefits from strong community engagement. The police department maintains active neighborhood liaison teams to build trust and respond early. The city invests in mental-health and domestic violence support services. Seasonal patrols in tourist zones enhance public safety.
43. Oakland, CA
Oakland recorded a much higher homicide rate—approximately 30.9 per 100,000 in 2024 . Persistent gang conflicts and economic disparities contribute to elevated violence. City leadership has launched violence interruption teams and expanded hotspot policing. Community nonprofits offer safe spaces and intervention services for at-risk youth. Efforts also include increased access to affordable housing and mental-health support.
44. Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis had a homicide rate of about 22.1 per 100,000 in 2024 . It saw a significant spike following the George Floyd unrest. The city responded with enhanced police presence and community violence reduction strategies. Mental-health and social service grants gained priority to address root causes. Early 2025 data shows some stabilization toward pre-spike levels.
45. Tulsa, OK
Tulsa’s homicide rate was approximately 17.3 per 100,000 in 2024 . Gang-related incidents and narcotics continue to drive violence. The Polk County Sheriff’s Department and Tulsa PD coordinate on hotspot patrols. Community groups offer mentoring and substance-use treatment for youth. Gun buybacks and weekend outreach events aim to reduce weapons circulating in the community.
46. Wichita, KS
Wichita reported about 5.8 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 The city’s violence tends to be episodic, with occasional spikes linked to domestic or gang incidents. Wichita PD focuses on early intervention and crisis response teams. Collaboration with social services and nonprofits assists vulnerable families. Recent crime reduction success is attributed to coordinated community intervention.
47. Arlington, TX
Arlington’s rate was low—around 4.8 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, its crime challenges are relatively modest. The city employs community patrols and neighborhood watch programs. Investments also support mental-health and domestic violence services. Public event security during large gatherings remains a focus.
48. Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield recorded about 14.7 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . The city faces ongoing challenges related to gang violence and socioeconomic stress. Bakersfield PD works with violence interruption groups to defuse potential shootings. The city also funds vocational training and teen engagement initiatives. Enhanced patrols target known high-risk areas.
49. Aurora, CO
Aurora reported a homicide rate of around 10.0 per 100,000 in 2024 . As an outer suburb of Denver, it sees varied crime levels in different districts. Aurora PD implements hotspot policing and crisis intervention teams. Youth mentorship and gang prevention programs are active across neighborhoods. City efforts also include gun buyback events and enhanced data-driven patrol planning.
50. Tampa, FL
Tampa recorded approximately 9.3 homicides per 100,000 in 2024 . Its homicide levels are moderate, though certain urban neighborhoods experience ongoing violence. Tampa PD focuses on intelligence-led patrols and community partnership. Nonprofits collaborate with law enforcement to support at-risk youth and reduce domestic violence. Seasonal tourism prompts increased security measures in central areas.
Our Primary Data Sources
- FBI Crime in the Nation (UCR/NIBRS) – Provides national annual crime totals, including murder and non-negligent manslaughter, covering major U.S. cities from 2023-2024
- USAFacts “Which cities have the highest murder rates?” – Offers county-level homicide rates for 2023; helpful benchmarks for cities like New York and Los Angeles
- Time.com “These Major Cities Reported the Highest Homicide Rates in 2021” – Lists 2023 homicide rates for major urban centers including Detroit, Memphis, Milwaukee