Louisville Surpasses Chicago and Los Angeles in Per Capita Homicides, FBI Data Shows
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — Newly released FBI crime data shows Louisville’s homicide rate per capita in 2024 was higher than both Chicago and Los Angeles, placing the city 15th nationwide among cities with more than 100,000 residents.
The report found that 22 people per 100,000 in Louisville died by homicide last year, topping Chicago’s rate by five percentage points and tripling Los Angeles. While the ranking highlights Louisville’s persistent challenges with violence, police officials emphasized that the city has seen progress in reducing overall crime.
Louisville’s Ranking and National Context
The FBI’s latest report noted that 82% of the U.S. population is represented in the submitted data. Among the nation’s homicide leaders were Birmingham, St. Louis, Memphis, Baltimore, and Detroit, which occupied the top five positions.
Louisville’s homicide rate placed it between Indianapolis and Cincinnati, other regional cities grappling with violence. The comparison to Boston — a city of similar size — was stark: while Boston reported just 24 homicides, Louisville saw nearly 125 more in 2024.
Despite these figures, Louisville’s homicide numbers have declined from a high of 177 in 2021 to 142 in 2024, with 2025 showing a 27% decrease in cases so far compared to the same time last year.
Police Response and Crime Reduction Efforts
The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) acknowledged the city’s ranking but highlighted broader improvements. A spokesperson noted that violent crime across major categories has dropped by roughly 30%, including declines in homicides, assaults, carjackings, and robberies.
“While it’s true that Louisville has faced significant challenges with gun violence in recent years, it’s important to recognize the progress we’ve made,” the spokesperson said, crediting the work of LMPD officers, community partners, and violence prevention programs led by the mayor’s office.
Officials also cautioned against oversimplifying comparisons to much larger cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York. “Rankings like these don’t always capture the full picture. Cities differ in population density, reporting practices, and local dynamics,” the department noted.
Looking Ahead for Louisville
Questions have been raised about whether Louisville could require federal intervention similar to Washington, D.C., where the National Guard has been deployed. LMPD responded that while federal partnerships remain strong, the department currently sees no need for such measures.
Instead, officials said the city’s strategy will continue to focus on community-based initiatives, targeted enforcement through the Crime Plan, and building stronger trust between residents and law enforcement.
Louisville’s high ranking underscores the difficulties many mid-sized American cities face in addressing gun violence, even as long-term trends show progress. For continued updates on public safety and community responses, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.