FBI crime statistics reveal decrease in violent crime and property crime in 2023

The release of these statistics comes amidst ongoing political debates about crime in urban areas, especially as former President Donald Trump has frequently claimed that crime is surging in major cities. However, the data contradicts these assertions, showing that crime rates in cities with populations over one million have also decreased for the second consecutive year, with a 7% reduction in violent crime. In addition to the decline in violent crime, property crime overall decreased by 2.4%, although certain categories, such as motor vehicle theft and shoplifting, saw increases. This trend of decreasing crime rates is significant as it suggests a return to pre-pandemic levels of safety, despite perceptions of rising crime fueled by political rhetoric and media narratives.

Key Statistics

• Violent Crime: Down 3% from 2022 to 2023.
• Murder and Manslaughter: Decreased by 11.6%, the largest decline in 20 years.
• Property Crime: Overall decline of 2.4%.
• Urban Crime Rates: Significant drops in cities over 1 million residents, with a 7% decrease in violent crime.

Context of the Data

The FBI’s annual crime report reflects a comprehensive analysis of crime across various jurisdictions, incorporating data from a wide range of law enforcement agencies. The report indicates that the violent crime rate fell from 377.1 incidents per 100,000 people in 2022 to 363.8 in 2023. This decline is part of a broader trend as the nation emerges from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, during which crime rates had surged. Reports also highlight that while violent crime has decreased, there are some areas, such as motor vehicle theft and shoplifting, where crime has increased, reflecting shifting patterns in criminal activity.

Overall, the FBI statistics provide a factual basis that counters narratives suggesting a crime wave, underscoring the importance of relying on data to inform discussions about public safety and crime policy.