Chicago homicides rise as violent crime drops in major U.S. cities
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U.S. cities are experiencing sharp declines in homicides this year — with one notable exception: Chicago.
Why it matters: Chicago is entering the traditional summer months for crime, with homicides slightly ahead of last year's pace, even as many major cities report steep declines in killings.
The latest: New 2026 crime data (January-April) from the Major Cities Chiefs Association shows double-digit declines in violent crime across several major American cities.
- But Chicago's homicide numbers are moving in the opposite direction.
By the numbers: The city has recorded 152 homicides in 2026 — eight more than at the same point last year, according to the Chicago Police Department.
- Still, that total remains far below 2023 levels. The city had logged 216 homicides by this point in the year Brandon Johnson took office.
- Chicago also recorded the highest number of homicides among major U.S. cities from January through April, with 98 killings. Oakland was next with 67.
Meanwhile, Washington, D.C., saw a 65% year-over-year drop in homicides.
- Portland and Philadelphia each posted declines of more than 60%.
- New York City and Los Angeles also reported fewer killings.
Reality check: Homicides are often viewed as the clearest indicator of violent crime trends, but other categories in Chicago, including armed robberies and sexual assaults, are declining.
- Still, Chicago's reductions in those crimes generally align with trends seen in other major cities.
The intrigue: Last year's decline in homicides became a political win for Johnson, who credited community violence intervention and traditional policing.
- The mayor replaced the city's first deputy mayor for community safety, Garien Gatewood, in March. Emmanuel Andre took over the role in April.
Between the lines: And as the 2027 municipal election approaches, Johnson is unlikely to be judged on last year's drop in violence as much as whether the city can reverse this year's homicide trend.
The bottom line: Chicago's homicide increase is relatively small, but it stands out at a moment when many major cities are seeing dramatic improvements.