U.S. Crime Declines Across Cities, Yet Explanations Remain Complex

A midyear report from the Council on Criminal Justice finds violent crime down across 36 large and midsize cities in the first half of 2026, with homicides about 18% lower and carjackings down roughly 73% from their 2023 peaks; other offenses such as residential burglary and motor vehicle theft also fell by more than half. However, some cities saw homicide increases, domestic violence rose 8%, and drug-related crimes rose 12%, illustrating an uneven pattern. Experts say the causes are complex, involving policy changes, new technology and surveillance, and broader societal shifts rather than a single fix.