Crime Concerns in the U. S. : A Shift in Perception

In recent times, fewer Americans are concerned about crime, marking the second consecutive year of decline. A recent Gallup poll reveals that 49% of Americans consider crime a significant issue, with the same percentage believing crime has increased.

Notable Decline in Concern

This drop in concern is the lowest since 2018. Just a year ago, in 2023, a record 63% of Americans viewed crime as a serious problem, peaking post-pandemic.

Perceptions of Crime Rates

Americans from diverse political backgrounds report improvements in crime rates since 2023, though their views on the extent of improvement differ:

• 33% believe there is less crime now.
• 8% think crime rates have remained the same.

Safety in Neighborhoods

The poll also examined how safe Americans feel in their neighborhoods:

• 31% are afraid to walk near their homes at night.
• This number has decreased from 40% in 2023.

Variations in Concern

Not all Americans share the same level of concern about crime:

• Women, low-income adults, and city dwellers tend to be more worried about neighborhood safety.

The poll surveyed 1,000 adults across the U.S. earlier this month.