California leads in murder victims

California reported the highest number of murder victims in 2022 with 2,197, significantly outpacing Texas, which had 2,020 victims, making these two states the most affected by homicides in the U.S.

Lowest murder rates in northeastern states

Northeastern states like New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine reported the lowest numbers of murder victims, with 25, 22, and 30 respectively, showcasing a stark contrast in violent crime rates compared to larger states.

Significant variation across states

The variation in the number of murder victims across states is significant, ranging from 14 in Wyoming to 2,197 in California, highlighting the diverse crime landscapes across the U.S.

Southern states exhibit higher murder counts

States in the South such as Georgia, North Carolina, and Louisiana reported high numbers of murder victims, with 830, 821, and 408 respectively, indicating a regional trend of higher homicide rates.

Midwestern and Eastern states with moderate counts

Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, from the Midwest and East, had substantial numbers of murder victims, with 881, 857, and 692 respectively, reflecting the challenges of addressing violent crime in these regions.

Rare occurrences in smaller states

Smaller states such as Delaware, Montana, and South Dakota reported relatively low murder numbers, with 49, 49, and 39 respectively, indicating lower incidences of violent crime in less populated areas.

Western states show varied crime rates

Western states presented a mixed picture, with California leading in homicides at 2,197, whereas states like Idaho and Wyoming reported much lower figures, with 53 and 14 respectively, illustrating the varied nature of crime across this region.

Significant numbers in traditionally safer regions

Even states traditionally viewed as safer, such as Massachusetts and Connecticut, reported notable numbers of murder victims, with 148 and 136 respectively, challenging perceptions of safety based on geographic location.