The U.S. homicide rate continued its historic decline in the first half of 2026, with an 18% drop in 30 surveyed cities compared to the same period in 2025, according to a new report from the Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ). The decline follows a significant reduction in 2025, which saw the largest single-year drop in homicides in over a century. However, eight cities, including San Francisco, Dallas, and Norfolk, Virginia, experienced spikes in homicides during the same period.
Core Findings
The CCJ study analyzed 13 crime types across 36 cities and found that nine categories, including carjackings and residential burglaries, saw declines. Carjackings had the largest drop, while drug offenses rose slightly but remained below pre-pandemic levels. Aggravated assaults remained relatively stable, with a 2% decrease compared to 2025 and a 3% drop from 2019.
Expert Perspectives
Adam Gelb, CCJ president and CEO, noted that the decline occurred across cities with varying political leadership, economic conditions, and policing strategies. He suggested that macro-level forces, such as technological changes and reduced alcohol abuse, may be contributing factors. The report also highlighted that the improvements exceeded expectations, surpassing baseline crime rates from before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Political and Policy Implications
Both Democrats and Republicans have cited the positive crime trends during a competitive midterm election year. However, the report indicates that the improvements are not tied to specific local policies but rather broader national trends. The study underscores the complexity of crime reduction, with no single explanation for the decline in homicides.