Violent crime is falling across major U.S. cities, with the national homicide rate down nearly 22% this year, according to the Real-Time Crime Index. Cities like Baltimore, Denver, and Seattle are seeing their lowest murder numbers in years. A separate report from the Major Cities Chiefs Association shows violent crime has dropped by 14% nationwide.

Experts credit this trend to a shift in approach. Investments in community programs, mental health services, and job support—particularly in cities like Detroit and Baltimore—are helping to reduce violence. Improved police-community relations and the easing of pandemic-related pressures have also contributed to the decline. Federal funding under ex-President Joe Biden supported many of these local initiatives.

Meanwhile, president Donald Trump has pushed for stricter policing and migrant deportations, claiming they are key to fighting crime. But current data does not support this. In Colorado, immigration-related arrests mainly involve individuals without criminal records. Cities like Denver and Aurora, which have seen major crime drops, point to violence interruption programs and community partnerships as the driving forces behind the change.

So far in 2025, evidence suggests prevention, support, and stability—not crackdowns—are proving most effective in making communities safer.

Photo: Brandon Anderson via flickr