Crime Statistics in Nashville 2025
Understanding the landscape of crime statistics in Nashville 2025 requires examining comprehensive data from official government sources including the Metro Nashville Police Department, FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program, and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Nashville, as Tennessee’s capital and second-largest city, continues to face significant public safety challenges while showing promising trends in certain crime categories. The city’s crime data reflects both ongoing concerns and notable improvements compared to previous years, making it essential for residents, businesses, and policymakers to understand the complete picture.
The crime statistics in Nashville in 2025 paint a complex picture of urban safety in Music City. While the city has made substantial progress in reducing certain types of violent crime, particularly in the first half of 2025, challenges remain in specific categories. Nashville recorded 104 homicides in 2024, maintaining a relatively stable homicide rate compared to 103 in 2023, though this represents a concerning plateau after significant reductions earlier in the year. The overall violent crime rate stands at 1,124.1 per 100,000 residents based on 2024 FBI data, placing Nashville as the 13th highest among major U.S. cities. However, 2025 trends through mid-year show promising decreases, with violent crime down nearly 10 percent and homicides down 18 percent compared to the same period in 2024.
Interesting Crime Stats & Facts in Nashville 2025
| Crime Fact Category | Statistic | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Total Homicides | 104 deaths | 2024 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,124.1 per 100,000 residents | 2024 |
| National Ranking for Violent Crime | 13th highest in nation | 2024 |
| Rape Reports | 627 cases | 2024 |
| Rape Increase | 20% increase from 2023 | 2024 |
| Robbery Decrease | 10% reduction | 2024 |
| Aggravated Assault Decrease | 6% reduction | 2024 |
| Overall Violent Crime Decrease | 5% reduction | 2024 |
| Homicide Clearance Rate | Approximately 50% | 2024 |
| 2025 Homicides (Through June) | 32 deaths | 2025 |
| 2025 Homicide Decrease | 18% reduction vs 2024 | 2025 |
| 2025 Violent Crime Decrease | Nearly 10% reduction | 2025 |
| Shooting Victims Decrease | 35% fewer victims (74 fewer) | 2025 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,825 per 100,000 residents | 2023 |
| Total Crime Rate | 4,927 per 100,000 residents | 2023 |
| Crime Rate vs National Average | 112% higher | 2023 |
| Chance of Being Crime Victim | 1 in 17 | 2023 |
| Projected 2025 Homicide Rate | Lowest in 60 years (if trends hold) | 2025 |
| Projected 2025 Robbery Rate | Lowest since 1972 (if trends hold) | 2025 |
| Property Crime Increase | 9.8% increase | 2024 |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department Uniform Crime Reports, FBI Crime Data Explorer, Nashville Banner Analysis, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation
The interesting crime facts about Nashville in 2025 reveal both encouraging and concerning patterns that reflect the city’s ongoing public safety evolution. The most striking development is the dramatic turnaround in violent crime trends during 2025, with homicides down 18 percent through mid-year compared to 2024, putting the city on track for its lowest homicide rate in six decades if current patterns continue. This represents a significant achievement for law enforcement and community intervention programs. However, the 627 reported rapes in 2024 mark a troubling 20 percent increase from the previous year, bucking national trends and raising concerns among advocacy groups about both actual incidents and reporting patterns.
The data demonstrates Nashville’s complex crime landscape where progress in one area coexists with challenges in another. The 50 percent homicide clearance rate indicates that arrests were made in roughly half of the 104 homicides recorded in 2024, slightly below national averages but consistent with clearance rates in other major cities. More encouraging is the 35 percent reduction in shooting victims through mid-2025, with 74 fewer people injured or killed in shootings compared to the same period in 2024. This reduction in gun violence represents tangible progress in addressing one of Nashville’s most pressing public safety concerns. The city’s violent crime rate of 1,124.1 per 100,000 residents remains significantly higher than the national average of 359.1, but the downward trajectory in 2025 suggests that intervention strategies are beginning to show results.
Homicide Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Homicide Category | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | Change | 2025 (Through June) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Homicides | 104 | 103 | +1 (+1.0%) | 32 |
| Homicides (Through June 2024) | 39 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Personal Arguments/Altercations | 42 (40%+ of total) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Domestic Violence Related | ~10-15 (estimated) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Drug-Related Activity | ~10-15 (estimated) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Homicides with Arrests Made | 53 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Cases Cleared (Death of Suspect) | 3 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Outstanding Arrest Warrants | 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Homicide Rate per 100,000 | ~15.3 | ~15.2 | +0.7% | N/A |
| 2025 Decrease vs 2024 | N/A | N/A | N/A | -18% |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Nashville Banner, FBI UCR Program
The homicide statistics in Nashville for 2024 reveal a troubling plateau in the city’s efforts to reduce killings, with 104 homicides recorded throughout the year, representing just one more death than the 103 homicides in 2023. This stagnation occurred despite promising early-year trends that saw homicides down nearly 20 percent through the first half of 2024, with only 39 homicides by the end of June compared to the same period in 2023. However, a deadly summer erased these gains, with violence typically escalating during warmer months. According to Metro Nashville Police Department spokesperson Don Aaron, more than 40 percent of the year’s homicides stemmed from personal arguments or altercations, while domestic violence and drug-related activity accounted for another 20 percent combined. This breakdown highlights the interpersonal nature of much of Nashville’s lethal violence, suggesting that intervention strategies targeting conflict resolution and domestic violence prevention could have significant impact.
The clearance rate for homicides in Nashville in 2024 stood at approximately 50 percent, with arrests made in 53 cases and three additional cases cleared after the death of the alleged perpetrator. Outstanding arrest warrants had been issued in five more cases as of December 23, 2024. While this clearance rate falls slightly below some national benchmarks, it reflects the challenges faced by major city police departments in solving homicides, particularly those involving gang activity or uncooperative witnesses. The more encouraging news comes from 2025 trends, where only 32 homicides were recorded through the end of June, representing an 18 percent decrease from the 39 homicides during the same period in 2024. This improvement has led Mayor Freddie O’Connell to project that Nashville could achieve its lowest homicide rate in 60 years if current trends hold through year-end, a remarkable potential achievement that would mark significant progress in addressing Nashville’s most serious crime challenge.
Violent Crime Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Violent Crime Type | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | Percent Change | 2025 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Violent Crimes | 7,491 | 8,909 (2023 full year) | -5.0% | Down 10% (mid-year) |
| Homicides | 104 | 103 | +1.0% | Down 18% (through June) |
| Rapes | 627 | 537 (2023) | +19.7% | Decreasing |
| Robberies | 1,176 (estimated) | 1,307 (2023) | -10.0% | Decreasing |
| Aggravated Assaults | 5,584 (estimated) | 6,962 (2023) | -6.3% | Decreasing |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,124.1 per 100,000 | 1,313 per 100,000 (2023) | -14.4% | Improving |
| Street Robberies | Down 6.4% | N/A | -6.4% | Decreasing |
| Commercial Robberies | Down 28.4% | N/A | -28.4% | Decreasing |
| Shooting Victims (2025) | N/A | N/A | N/A | Down 35% (through June) |
| National Ranking | 13th highest | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department UCR Reports, FBI Crime Data 2024, Nashville Banner, WSMV4
The violent crime statistics in Nashville for 2024 and 2025 demonstrate significant progress in most categories, with overall violent offenses decreasing by 5 percent in 2024 and showing even more dramatic improvements in early 2025. Total violent crimes dropped to 7,491 incidents in 2024, a substantial reduction from 8,909 in 2023. The violent crime rate of 1,124.1 per 100,000 residents in 2024, while still ranking Nashville as the 13th highest among major U.S. cities, represents a meaningful decrease from the previous year’s rate of approximately 1,313 per 100,000. This improvement places Nashville in a better position relative to other Tennessee cities, with Memphis holding the unfortunate distinction of the highest violent crime rate in the nation at 2,501 per 100,000 residents in 2024.
Breaking down the components of violent crime in Nashville in 2024, robberies showed particularly encouraging declines, falling by more than 10 percent overall. Street robberies decreased by 6.4 percent, while commercial robberies plummeted by 28.4 percent, indicating that business-focused crime prevention strategies have been effective. Aggravated assaults, which typically make up the largest proportion of violent crimes, decreased by more than 6 percent in 2024. The 2025 trends show acceleration of these positive developments, with violent crime down nearly 10 percent through mid-year and shooting victims down by 35 percent, with 74 fewer people injured or killed in shootings compared to the same period in 2024. Most precincts experienced declines in total violent offenses during the first part of 2025, with the Midtown Hills precinct experiencing the most significant decrease at more than 32 percent, though the East and Hermitage precincts saw increases of more than 4 percent.
Rape and Sexual Assault Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Sexual Assault Category | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | Percent Change | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Reported Rapes | 627 | 537 | +19.7% | Contrary to national trends |
| Midtown Hills Precinct | 84 | 15 (by April 2024) | +460% | Highest precinct increase |
| South Precinct | 80 | N/A | N/A | Second highest reports |
| Hermitage Precinct | 71 | N/A | N/A | Third highest reports |
| Rape Increase (First Half 2024) | 22% increase | N/A | +22% | Compared to same period 2023 |
| National Unreported Rate | ~66% | N/A | N/A | Per RAINN estimates |
| Rape Rate Interpretation | Unclear | N/A | N/A | Could indicate more reporting |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), WKRN Local News
The rape and sexual assault statistics in Nashville for 2024 present a deeply concerning trend that runs counter to national patterns, with 627 reported rapes recorded throughout the year, representing a 19.7 percent increase from the 537 cases reported in 2023. This dramatic rise makes rape the only major violent crime category in Nashville that increased significantly during 2024, raising serious questions about both the prevalence of sexual violence and reporting patterns in the community. The Midtown Hills Precinct experienced the most alarming surge, with 84 rapes reported by year-end compared to only 15 reports by the end of April, representing a staggering 460 percent increase. The South Precinct followed with 80 reported rapes, and the Hermitage Precinct recorded 71 cases, with these three precincts accounting for more than half of all rape reports citywide.
Understanding the sexual assault trends in Nashville in 2024 and 2025 requires careful interpretation of the data. Local advocates who work with survivors emphasize that an estimated 66 percent of rapes go unreported to law enforcement according to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), meaning the true incidence of sexual violence is likely much higher than official statistics suggest. The increase in reported rapes could potentially indicate several scenarios: an actual rise in sexual assaults, increased willingness among survivors to report assaults to police due to improved victim services and advocacy, changes in law enforcement documentation practices, or some combination of these factors. The geographic concentration of reports in specific precincts suggests that local factors, including the presence of entertainment districts, residential density, and proximity to colleges and universities, may influence both assault patterns and reporting behaviors. The 2025 preliminary data suggests some improvement in this category, though comprehensive statistics are not yet available.
Property Crime Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Property Crime Type | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | Percent Change | 2025 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Property Crimes | ~28,500 (estimated) | 31,821 | -10.4% (estimated) | Decreasing overall |
| Residential Burglaries | Up 22.6% | 2,908 (2023) | +22.6% | Down 27% (2025 mid-year) |
| Commercial Burglaries | Varied by precinct | Included in total | Varied | Decreasing |
| Larceny-Theft | ~24,500 (estimated) | 23,234 | +5.5% | Stable |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | ~3,400 (estimated) | 5,679 | -40.1% (declining) | Continuing to decline |
| Property Crime Rate | ~4,200 per 100,000 (estimated) | 3,825 per 100,000 | Variable | Improving |
| Chance of Property Crime Victimization | 1 in 22 | 1 in 27 | Worsened | Improving in 2025 |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, FBI UCR Program, NeighborhoodScout Analysis
The property crime statistics in Nashville for 2024 present a mixed picture, with some categories showing significant improvements while others experienced concerning increases during portions of the year. Property crime increased by approximately 9.8 percent through mid-2024 before beginning to level off and decline in the latter half of the year, driven primarily by a surge in auto theft and residential burglaries during the first half. Residential burglaries increased by 22.6 percent county-wide compared to 2023, with the North and South Precincts experiencing the largest rises, while commercial burglaries showed varied patterns across different precincts. The overall property crime rate, which includes burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft, stood at approximately 3,825 per 100,000 residents based on 2023 FBI data, making Nashville’s property crime rate 95.7 percent higher than the national average.
The most dramatic property crime trend in Nashville through 2024 was the sharp increase in motor vehicle theft during the early part of the year, with 2,205 auto thefts reported through June 2024 compared to 1,564 thefts during the same period in 2023, representing a 41 percent increase. However, this represented a significant deceleration from the start of 2024, when auto thefts were up over 120 percent, indicating that the surge was beginning to plateau. The East Precinct experienced the most severe impact, with an 81.9 percent rise in vehicle thefts. Larceny offenses, which include thefts of bicycles, motor vehicle parts and accessories, shoplifting, and pocket-picking, showed a more modest 5.5 percent increase through mid-2024. The 2025 property crime trends show substantial improvement, with home burglaries in particular down more than 27 percent through mid-year, and total property offenses decreasing in every precinct except the North precinct, where rates remained unchanged.
Robbery Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Robbery Category | 2024 Data | 2023 Data | Percent Change | 2025 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Robberies | ~1,176 | 1,307 | -10.0% | Down (mid-year) |
| Street Robberies | Down 6.4% | N/A | -6.4% | Decreasing |
| Commercial Robberies | Down 28.4% | N/A | -28.4% | Decreasing |
| Madison Precinct Robberies | Down 27.9% | N/A | -27.9% | N/A |
| West Precinct Robberies | Up 76.5% | N/A | +76.5% | N/A |
| Hermitage Precinct Robberies | Increased | N/A | Increase | N/A |
| Projected 2025 Robbery Rate | Potentially lowest since 1972 | N/A | N/A | Historic low possible |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Mayor’s Office, Nashville Banner
The robbery statistics in Nashville for 2024 demonstrate one of the most encouraging crime trends in the city, with total robberies declining by more than 10 percent compared to 2023, falling from 1,307 incidents to approximately 1,176 cases. This represents significant progress in addressing street-level violent crime that directly impacts residents’ sense of safety. The decline was even more pronounced in specific robbery categories, with commercial robberies (those targeting businesses) plummeting by 28.4 percent, suggesting that enhanced security measures at retail establishments and improved police response strategies have been effective. Street robberies, which include muggings and other person-to-person thefts involving force or threat of force, decreased by 6.4 percent, a smaller but still meaningful reduction.
Geographic patterns in robbery trends in Nashville in 2024 varied significantly across police precincts, with some areas experiencing substantial decreases while others saw increases. The Madison Precinct recorded the largest drop in robberies at 27.9 percent, indicating successful crime reduction efforts in that area. However, the West Precinct experienced a troubling 76.5 percent increase in robbery incidents, and the Hermitage Precinct also saw robberies rise. These geographic disparities suggest that robbery patterns are influenced by local factors including business density, street lighting, police presence, and community engagement. The 2025 robbery projections are particularly promising, with Mayor Freddie O’Connell announcing that if current trends hold, Nashville could achieve its lowest robbery rate since 1972, a potentially historic milestone that would represent more than 50 years since robbery was this low in Music City.
Aggravated Assault Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Aggravated Assault Data | 2024 Total | 2023 Total | Percent Change | Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Aggravated Assaults | ~5,584 (estimated) | 6,962 | -6.3% | ~822 per 100,000 |
| Aggravated Assaults (Through August 2024) | 4,431 | 4,727 | -6.3% | N/A |
| Definition | Unlawful attack to inflict severe bodily injury | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Percent of Violent Crime | ~75% of violent crime | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| 2025 Trend | Decreasing | N/A | Declining | Improving |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, FBI UCR Definitions, WKRN Analysis
The aggravated assault statistics in Nashville for 2024 show meaningful progress in reducing serious violent attacks, with total incidents declining by more than 6 percent compared to 2023. Aggravated assaults, defined by the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program as unlawful attacks by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury, typically constitute the largest component of violent crime in most cities, and Nashville is no exception. Through August 31, 2024, preliminary data showed 4,431 incidents of aggravated assault reported in Nashville and Davidson County, down from 4,727 aggravated assaults reported during the same period in 2023. This category of crime accounts for approximately 75 percent of all violent crime in Nashville, making reductions in aggravated assault critical to overall violent crime trends.
The aggravated assault trends in Nashville throughout 2024 and into 2025 reflect broader patterns in violence reduction, with the decreases corresponding to reductions in gun violence and shooting victims. The year-over-year decline suggests that violence intervention programs, enhanced police presence in high-crime areas, and community-based conflict resolution initiatives are having measurable impact. The geographic distribution of aggravated assaults across Nashville’s eight precincts showed varied patterns, with some areas experiencing more significant reductions than others, similar to patterns observed in other violent crime categories. The 2025 preliminary data indicates that aggravated assaults continue to decline, contributing to the nearly 10 percent overall reduction in violent crime observed through mid-year.
Burglary Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Burglary Category | 2024 Data | 2023 Total | Percent Change | 2025 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Burglaries | ~3,200 (estimated) | 2,908 | +10.0% (estimated) | Down 27% (mid-year) |
| Residential Burglaries | Up 22.6% | N/A | +22.6% | Declining substantially |
| Commercial Burglaries | Varied by precinct | N/A | Mixed | Improving |
| North Precinct Residential Burglaries | Largest increase | N/A | Up significantly | N/A |
| South Precinct Residential Burglaries | Large increase | N/A | Up significantly | N/A |
| Central Precinct Burglaries | Down 70% (early 2024) | N/A | -70% | N/A |
| Hermitage Precinct Burglaries | Decreased | N/A | Decline | N/A |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, WKRN Crime Analysis, Nashville Banner
The burglary statistics in Nashville for 2024 present a concerning mid-year spike followed by improvement in the latter half of the year and into 2025. Burglary, which involves the unlawful entry of a home or business, saw significant increases during the first half of 2024, with residential burglaries rising by 22.6 percent county-wide compared to the same period in 2023. The North and South Precincts experienced the largest increases in home break-ins, raising alarm among residents in those areas about property security and neighborhood safety. Commercial burglary patterns varied significantly across precincts, with the North Precinct seeing burglaries at businesses increase by nearly 116.7 percent through mid-year, while other areas experienced declines.
The geographic variation in burglary trends in Nashville throughout 2024 highlights the localized nature of property crime patterns. The Central Precinct experienced a remarkable 70 percent decrease in burglaries during early 2024, while the Hermitage Precinct also saw reductions. This disparity suggests that burglary patterns are influenced by factors including neighborhood watch programs, visible police presence, property security measures, and the physical characteristics of residential and commercial areas. The 2025 burglary data shows dramatic improvement, with home burglaries down more than 27 percent through mid-year compared to the same period in 2024, representing one of the most significant positive shifts in any crime category. This sharp reversal suggests that heightened public awareness, increased security measures, and targeted law enforcement efforts have successfully addressed what had been a troubling trend.
Motor Vehicle Theft Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Auto Theft Data | 2024 Statistics | 2023 Statistics | Percent Change | 2025 Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Thefts (Through June 2024) | 2,205 | 1,564 | +41.0% | Declining |
| Early 2024 Increase | Up over 120% | N/A | +120% (January) | Leveling off |
| East Precinct Auto Thefts | Up 81.9% | N/A | +81.9% | N/A |
| 2023 Total Motor Vehicle Thefts | N/A | 5,679 | N/A | N/A |
| National Trend | Declining sharply | N/A | Down ~20% nationally | Continuing decline |
| 2025 Motor Vehicle Theft Trend | Continuing to decline | N/A | N/A | Down significantly |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, FBI UCR Program, WKRN Analysis, National Crime Data
The motor vehicle theft statistics in Nashville for 2024 initially showed alarming increases before beginning to plateau and decline as the year progressed. Auto theft emerged as one of the fastest-rising crimes in Nashville during the early part of 2024, with thefts skyrocketing by over 120 percent at the start of the year. By June 2024, a total of 2,205 auto thefts had been reported compared to 1,564 thefts during the same period in 2023, representing a 41 percent increase. However, this represented significant deceleration from the extreme early-year pace, indicating that the surge was beginning to level off. The East Precinct bore the brunt of the vehicle theft epidemic, experiencing an 81.9 percent rise in auto thefts, while four of Nashville’s eight police precincts reported increases exceeding 50 percent within the first five months of 2024.
The motor vehicle theft trends in Nashville evolved significantly as 2024 progressed, with preliminary data suggesting that the dramatic increases observed early in the year began reversing in the latter half. This pattern mirrors national trends, where motor vehicle theft decreased by nearly 20 percent in 2024 after several years of increases, representing the largest one-year decline in more than four decades according to FBI data. The surge in vehicle thefts nationwide and in Nashville was largely attributed to social media-driven theft techniques targeting specific vehicle makes and models, particularly Kia and Hyundai vehicles lacking electronic immobilizers. As manufacturers issued software updates and law enforcement developed targeted response strategies, theft rates began declining. The 2025 motor vehicle theft data shows continuation of this positive trend, with auto thefts continuing to decline as part of the broader improvement in property crime rates observed through mid-year.
Larceny-Theft Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Larceny Category | 2024 Data | 2023 Total | Percent Change | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Larceny-Theft | ~24,500 (estimated) | 23,234 | +5.5% | Includes all theft types |
| Larceny Rate per 100,000 | ~3,610 | ~3,421 | +5.5% | Above national average |
| Common Larceny Types | Shoplifting, bicycle theft, parts theft, pocket-picking | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Madison Precinct Larceny | Up 20.9% (mid-2024) | N/A | +20.9% | Highest precinct increase |
| Midtown Hills Larceny | Down 9.7% | N/A | -9.7% | Largest precinct decrease |
| Central Precinct Larceny | Down 0.8% | N/A | -0.8% | Slight decrease |
| 2025 Larceny Trend | Relatively stable | N/A | N/A | Minor fluctuations |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, FBI UCR Program, WKRN Crime Reports
The larceny-theft statistics in Nashville for 2024 showed a modest overall increase of 5.5 percent compared to 2023, with approximately 24,500 incidents estimated for the full year compared to 23,234 in 2023. Larceny-theft, the most common property crime category, includes a wide range of theft offenses such as shoplifting, bicycle theft, theft of motor vehicle parts and accessories, and pocket-picking. Unlike burglary or motor vehicle theft, larceny does not involve forcible entry or taking of motor vehicles, but rather the taking of property or money without force or illegal entry. While the county-wide increase was relatively modest, geographic patterns varied significantly, with some precincts experiencing substantial increases while others saw decreases.
The larceny trends in Nashville throughout 2024 revealed distinct precinct-level patterns, with the Madison Precinct recording the largest rise in larceny reports at 20.9 percent through mid-year, while the Midtown Hills Precinct experienced a 9.7 percent decrease and the Central Precinct saw a slight 0.8 percent decline. These geographic variations likely reflect differences in commercial activity, retail concentration, and enforcement priorities across different areas of the city. The majority of larceny incidents were reported in the South, Hermitage, and Midtown Hills Precincts, which together account for substantial retail and commercial activity. The 2025 preliminary larceny data suggests relatively stable rates with minor fluctuations, indicating that theft patterns have neither dramatically improved nor worsened compared to 2024 levels, though comprehensive year-end data is not yet available.
Crime Rate Comparisons Nashville 2025
| Comparison Category | Nashville Rate | National Average | Tennessee Average | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,927 per 100,000 | 2,324 per 100,000 | 2,663 per 100,000 | 112% higher than national |
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,124.1 per 100,000 (2024) | 359.1 per 100,000 | 673 per 100,000 | 213% higher than national |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,825 per 100,000 | 1,760.1 per 100,000 | ~2,340 per 100,000 | 96% higher than national |
| Homicide Rate | ~15.3 per 100,000 | ~6.3 per 100,000 | ~8.7 per 100,000 | 143% higher than national |
| Chance of Being Crime Victim | 1 in 17 | 1 in 43 | 1 in 38 | Higher risk than national |
| Chance of Violent Crime Victim | 1 in 71 | 1 in 279 | 1 in 149 | Higher risk than national |
| Chance of Property Crime Victim | 1 in 22 | 1 in 57 | 1 in 43 | Higher risk than national |
| National Violent Crime Ranking | 13th highest | N/A | N/A | Among major U.S. cities |
| Safer Than U.S. Cities | 6% | N/A | N/A | Only safer than 6% of cities |
Data Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer, NeighborhoodScout Analysis, Metro Nashville Police Department
The crime rate comparisons for Nashville in 2025 reveal that Music City continues to experience significantly higher crime rates than both national and state averages, though improvements in 2025 are beginning to narrow these gaps. Nashville’s overall crime rate of 4,927 per 100,000 residents is 112 percent higher than the national average of 2,324 per 100,000, meaning residents face more than double the crime risk compared to the typical American city. The violent crime rate of 1,124.1 per 100,000 is particularly concerning, standing 213 percent higher than the national average of 359.1 per 100,000. This places Nashville as the 13th most dangerous city for violent crime among major U.S. metropolitan areas, a ranking that reflects persistent challenges with assault, robbery, and homicide despite recent improvements.
Breaking down these crime rate comparisons for Nashville in 2024 and 2025 into individual risk factors provides important context for residents and visitors. A person in Nashville has a 1 in 17 chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime, compared to a 1 in 43 chance nationally, making Nashville significantly more dangerous than the average American city. The risk of violent crime victimization stands at 1 in 71 in Nashville versus 1 in 279 nationally, while property crime risk is 1 in 22 compared to 1 in 57 nationally. These statistics mean Nashville is safer than only 6 percent of U.S. cities, placing it among the more dangerous metropolitan areas in the country. However, the positive trends observed through 2025, including the nearly 10 percent reduction in violent crime and 18 percent decrease in homicides, suggest that Nashville is beginning to close the gap with national averages, though substantial work remains to reach parity with safer cities.
Crime by Precinct in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Precinct | Violent Crime Trend | Property Crime Trend | Notable Changes | Population Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Precinct | Down significantly | Down significantly | Burglaries down 70% (early 2024) | Downtown, entertainment district |
| Midtown Hills Precinct | Down 32%+ (2025) | Down 9.7% larceny | Rape reports up 460% (2024) | Dense residential, commercial |
| Hermitage Precinct | Up 4%+ (2025) | Decreased burglaries | Rape reports third highest | Suburban, mixed use |
| East Precinct | Up 4%+ (2025) | Auto theft up 81.9% | Vehicle theft epidemic | East Nashville neighborhoods |
| South Precinct | Decreasing | Property crime improving | 80 rape reports (2024) | South Nashville, mixed density |
| North Precinct | Varied | Property unchanged (2025) | Residential burglaries up significantly | North Nashville communities |
| Madison Precinct | Robberies down 27.9% | Larceny up 20.9% | Mixed results | Madison area |
| West Precinct | Robberies up 76.5% | Varied | Significant robbery increase | West Nashville |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department Precinct Reports, WKRN Analysis, Nashville Banner
The crime by precinct in Nashville for 2024 and 2025 demonstrates that crime patterns vary dramatically across different areas of the city, with some neighborhoods experiencing significant improvements while others face ongoing or worsening challenges. The Midtown Hills Precinct showed the most dramatic violent crime reduction in early 2025, with violent offenses down more than 32 percent through mid-year compared to the same period in 2024, representing the largest decrease among all eight precincts. This improvement came despite the precinct recording one of the highest numbers of rape reports in 2024, with 84 cases representing a troubling 460 percent increase. The Central Precinct, which covers downtown Nashville and the primary entertainment district, experienced a remarkable 70 percent decrease in burglaries during early 2024, suggesting that enhanced security measures and increased police presence in the urban core have been effective.
Conversely, the East and Hermitage Precincts bucked the citywide trend by experiencing increases in violent crime of more than 4 percent through mid-2025, indicating that crime reduction strategies have not been equally effective across all areas. The East Precinct faced particularly severe challenges with motor vehicle theft, experiencing an 81.9 percent rise in auto thefts during 2024, the highest increase among all precincts. The West Precinct saw robberies surge by 76.5 percent in 2024, while the Madison Precinct experienced the largest increase in larceny offenses at 20.9 percent through mid-year. These geographic disparities in crime patterns across Nashville precincts in 2024 and 2025 reflect differences in neighborhood demographics, commercial activity, housing density, street infrastructure, and the effectiveness of community-police partnerships, highlighting the need for tailored crime prevention strategies that address the unique challenges of each area rather than one-size-fits-all approaches.
Gun Violence and Shooting Statistics in Nashville 2025 and 2024
| Gun Violence Metric | 2024 Data | 2023 Data | 2025 Data (Through June) | Percent Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Shooting Victims | N/A | N/A | 74 fewer than 2024 | -35% (2025) |
| Fatal Shootings (Homicides) | 104 | 103 | 32 | Down 18% (2025) |
| Non-Fatal Shooting Victims | Estimated 250-300 | N/A | Down significantly | -35%+ (2025) |
| Mass Shooting Incidents | Multiple incidents | Multiple incidents | N/A | Ongoing concern |
| Gun-Related Aggravated Assaults | Majority of 5,584 | N/A | Declining | Improving |
| Firearm Used in Homicides | Approximately 85%+ | N/A | N/A | Majority gun-related |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Mayor’s Office, Gun Violence Archive
The gun violence and shooting statistics in Nashville for 2024 and 2025 reveal both persistent challenges and encouraging improvements in one of the city’s most serious public safety concerns. While comprehensive shooting victim data for the full year 2024 is not publicly available, the 2025 trends show dramatic progress, with 74 fewer shooting victims through mid-year compared to the same period in 2024, representing a 35 percent reduction. This substantial decrease in people shot, whether fatally or non-fatally, represents tangible progress in reducing gun violence and reflects the combined impact of violence intervention programs, enhanced police strategies, and community-based initiatives. The reduction in shooting victims corresponds with the 18 percent decrease in homicides observed through June 2025, as the vast majority of Nashville’s homicides involve firearms.
The prevalence of gun violence in Nashville throughout 2024 is evidenced by the fact that approximately 85 percent or more of the city’s 104 homicides involved firearms, consistent with national patterns where guns are used in the majority of killings. Gun-related aggravated assaults also constitute a significant portion of the approximately 5,584 aggravated assault incidents recorded in 2024. Nashville, like many American cities, has experienced multiple mass shooting incidents in recent years, including tragic events at schools, businesses, and public spaces that have drawn national attention. The 2025 gun violence reduction, if sustained through year-end, would represent one of the most significant public safety achievements in recent Nashville history, potentially contributing to Mayor O’Connell’s projection that the city could achieve its lowest homicide rate in 60 years while also recording its lowest robbery rate since 1972 if current trends continue.
Crime Trends and Analysis in Nashville 2025
| Trend Category | Direction | Magnitude | Time Period | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Violent Crime | Decreasing | Down 10% | 2025 (through mid-year) | Major improvement |
| Homicides | Decreasing | Down 18% | 2025 (through June) | Historic potential |
| Shooting Victims | Decreasing | Down 35% (74 fewer) | 2025 (through June) | Substantial progress |
| Robberies | Decreasing | Potentially lowest since 1972 | 2025 projection | Historic achievement |
| Rape/Sexual Assault | Was increasing | Up 20% | 2024 | Now decreasing in 2025 |
| Property Crime | Decreasing | Down across most precincts | 2025 | Improving |
| Home Burglaries | Decreasing | Down 27% | 2025 (through mid-year) | Significant reversal |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | Decreasing | Continuing decline | 2025 | Following national trend |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Mayor’s Office, FBI UCR Program
The crime trends and analysis for Nashville in 2025 paint a picture of a city making significant progress in public safety after years of elevated crime rates. The most encouraging development is the dramatic turnaround in violent crime, which declined by nearly 10 percent through mid-year 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This improvement represents acceleration of the 5 percent violent crime reduction achieved in 2024, suggesting that crime reduction strategies are gaining momentum rather than plateauing. The 18 percent decrease in homicides and 35 percent reduction in shooting victims through June 2025 are particularly significant, as these represent the most serious forms of violence and have the greatest impact on community safety and quality of life. If these trends hold through year-end, Nashville would achieve its lowest homicide rate in 60 years, a remarkable milestone that would mark the city’s safest year for murders since the mid-1960s.
However, the comprehensive crime analysis for Nashville in 2024 and 2025 reveals that progress has not been uniform across all crime categories or geographic areas. While violent crime showed substantial improvement, rape reports increased by 20 percent in 2024, marking the only major violent crime category moving in the wrong direction and raising concerns about sexual violence in the community. Property crime also presented mixed signals, with residential burglaries up 22.6 percent in the first half of 2024 before reversing course and declining by 27 percent in early 2025. Motor vehicle theft surged by over 120 percent at the start of 2024 before beginning to level off and decline, following national patterns. The geographic disparities are equally notable, with some precincts like Midtown Hills experiencing violent crime reductions exceeding 32 percent while the East and Hermitage Precincts saw increases above 4 percent. These patterns suggest that Nashville’s crime trends are influenced by multiple factors including seasonal variations, targeted police interventions, community engagement levels, economic conditions, and the effectiveness of violence interruption programs that vary by neighborhood.
Law Enforcement Response and Clearance Rates in Nashville 2024
| Clearance Category | Rate/Number | National Average | Details | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide Clearance Rate | ~50% (53 arrests) | ~55-60% | 53 arrests, 3 suspect deaths | Below national average |
| Outstanding Homicide Warrants | 5 cases | N/A | Active warrants issued | As of Dec 2024 |
| Violent Crime Clearance Rate | Estimated 35-40% | ~40-45% | Not fully reported | Comparable to similar cities |
| Property Crime Clearance Rate | Estimated 15-20% | ~15-17% | Typical for property crimes | Normal range |
| Metro Police Officers | ~1,450 sworn officers | N/A | Staffing challenges | Recruitment ongoing |
| Officer-to-Resident Ratio | ~1:470 | 1:400-450 (recommended) | Below ideal ratio | Staffing concern |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, FBI UCR Program, Nashville Budget Documents
The law enforcement response and clearance rates in Nashville for 2024 reveal the challenges faced by the Metro Nashville Police Department in solving crimes and holding offenders accountable. The homicide clearance rate of approximately 50 percent means that arrests were made in 53 of the 104 homicide cases recorded in 2024, with three additional cases cleared after the death of the alleged perpetrator and five cases having outstanding arrest warrants issued. While this clearance rate falls slightly below the national average of 55 to 60 percent for homicide investigations, it is comparable to rates in other major cities facing similar challenges with witness cooperation, gang-related violence, and resource constraints. The fact that half of Nashville’s killings resulted in arrests represents thousands of hours of detective work and demonstrates the department’s commitment to solving these most serious crimes.
Clearance rates for other crime categories follow predictable patterns, with violent crimes generally cleared at rates between 35 and 40 percent while property crimes have much lower clearance rates of 15 to 20 percent, consistent with national averages. Property crimes like burglary and larceny are notoriously difficult to solve due to lack of witnesses, limited physical evidence, and the volume of incidents that must be investigated. The Metro Nashville Police Department’s staffing levels present ongoing challenges, with approximately 1,450 sworn officers serving a population exceeding 680,000 residents, resulting in an officer-to-resident ratio of approximately 1:470, which falls below the recommended ratio of 1:400 to 1:450 for major metropolitan areas. The department continues active recruitment efforts to address staffing shortages that impact response times and investigative capacity across all crime categories.
Nashville Crime Statistics Compared to Other Tennessee Cities 2024
| Tennessee City | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate | Total Crime Rate | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis | 2,501 per 100,000 | ~5,600 per 100,000 | ~8,100 per 100,000 | ~630,000 |
| Nashville | 1,124.1 per 100,000 | ~3,825 per 100,000 | ~4,927 per 100,000 | ~680,000 |
| Chattanooga | ~1,070 per 100,000 | ~4,200 per 100,000 | ~5,270 per 100,000 | ~185,000 |
| Knoxville | ~850 per 100,000 | ~3,900 per 100,000 | ~4,750 per 100,000 | ~190,000 |
| Tennessee State Average | 673 per 100,000 | ~2,340 per 100,000 | ~2,663 per 100,000 | ~7 million |
Data Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer 2024, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, NeighborhoodScout
The Nashville crime statistics compared to other Tennessee cities in 2024 show that while Music City has concerning crime rates, it performs better than Memphis but worse than smaller Tennessee metros like Knoxville. Memphis holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest violent crime rate in the entire nation at 2,501 per 100,000 residents, more than double Nashville’s rate of 1,124.1 per 100,000. Memphis also leads Tennessee in property crime and overall crime rates, making it significantly more dangerous than Nashville despite the cities having similar population sizes. This comparison provides important context: while Nashville faces serious public safety challenges, residents in Memphis confront even more severe crime problems, with violent crime rates that are among the highest recorded in any American city.
Compared to Tennessee’s other major cities, Nashville’s crime rates in 2024 place it in the middle tier. Chattanooga, with a population of approximately 185,000, has a violent crime rate of roughly 1,070 per 100,000, slightly below Nashville’s rate despite serving far fewer residents. Knoxville, with about 190,000 residents, maintains a notably lower violent crime rate of approximately 850 per 100,000, suggesting that smaller Tennessee cities may be safer alternatives for those prioritizing public safety. All of Tennessee’s major cities significantly exceed the state average violent crime rate of 673 per 100,000, indicating that urban areas throughout Tennessee face elevated crime compared to suburban and rural communities. Nashville’s performance relative to other Tennessee cities suggests that while improvements in 2025 are encouraging, the city still has substantial work ahead to achieve crime rates comparable to safer mid-size cities or the state average.
Factors Contributing to Crime in Nashville 2025
| Contributing Factor | Impact Level | Description | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Inequality | High | Wealth gaps correlate with crime | Davidson County economic disparities |
| Population Growth | Moderate-High | Rapid growth strains resources | 100,000+ new residents since 2010 |
| Drug Activity | High | Narcotics trade fuels violence | 10-15% of homicides drug-related |
| Gang Activity | Moderate-High | Organized criminal enterprises | Multiple gang-related incidents |
| Domestic Violence | Moderate | Family conflict escalates | 10-15% of homicides domestic |
| Mental Health/Substance Abuse | High | Untreated conditions contribute | Limited treatment capacity |
| Poverty Rate | Moderate-High | ~13-15% poverty rate | Above national average |
| Educational Disparities | Moderate | School quality varies by neighborhood | Achievement gaps persist |
| Housing Affordability | Moderate | Displacement and instability | Rising costs, gentrification |
| Access to Firearms | High | Gun availability enables violence | 85%+ of homicides gun-related |
Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Metro Nashville Police Department, Academic Crime Research, Public Health Data
The factors contributing to crime in Nashville in 2025 are complex and interconnected, reflecting broader social, economic, and public health challenges facing the city. Income inequality stands as one of the most significant correlates with crime rates, as Nashville has experienced substantial economic growth that has not been evenly distributed across all communities. While the city has attracted major corporate investments and high-paying jobs in healthcare, technology, and entertainment, many neighborhoods continue to struggle with poverty rates exceeding 13 to 15 percent, well above the national average. This economic disparity creates conditions where criminal activity may seem like a viable option for individuals lacking legitimate economic opportunities, particularly in areas with limited access to quality education and job training programs.
Population growth represents another major factor contributing to Nashville’s crime challenges, as the city has added more than 100,000 residents since 2010, straining public safety infrastructure, social services, and community resources. Rapid growth without proportional increases in police staffing, mental health services, and community programs creates gaps that can enable crime to flourish. The data from Metro Nashville Police indicates that drug-related activity accounts for approximately 10 to 15 percent of homicides, while domestic violence contributes another 10 to 15 percent, and personal arguments or altercations drive more than 40 percent of killings. These patterns suggest that many of Nashville’s violent crimes stem from interpersonal conflicts rather than organized criminal enterprises, though gang activity remains a persistent concern in certain neighborhoods. The high availability of firearms, evidenced by the fact that 85 percent or more of homicides involve guns, amplifies the lethality of these conflicts, turning arguments that might otherwise result in non-fatal outcomes into deadly encounters.
Public Safety Initiatives and Crime Prevention Programs in Nashville 2025
| Initiative/Program | Focus Area | Implementation Status | Reported Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violence Intervention Programs | Gun violence reduction | Active and expanding | Contributing to 35% shooting reduction |
| Community Policing Initiatives | Police-community relations | Ongoing across precincts | Mixed results by area |
| Kia/Hyundai Anti-Theft Campaign | Motor vehicle theft prevention | Software updates provided | Contributing to auto theft decline |
| Enhanced Patrols in High-Crime Areas | Targeted enforcement | Increased deployment | Violent crime down in most precincts |
| Domestic Violence Prevention | Family violence reduction | Services and enforcement | Ongoing, impact being monitored |
| Youth Intervention Programs | Prevent youth crime | Operating through nonprofits | Long-term prevention focus |
| Business Security Partnerships | Commercial robbery prevention | Active engagement | 28% commercial robbery reduction |
| Neighborhood Watch Expansion | Community engagement | Growing participation | Contributing to burglary reduction |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Mayor’s Office, Community Organization Reports
The public safety initiatives and crime prevention programs in Nashville in 2025 represent a multi-faceted approach to reducing crime that goes beyond traditional law enforcement to address root causes and support community-based solutions. Violence intervention programs have emerged as a key component of the city’s strategy, with community organizations working alongside law enforcement to interrupt cycles of retaliation and provide alternatives to violence for at-risk individuals. These programs appear to be contributing to the 35 percent reduction in shooting victims observed through mid-2025, as interventionists work directly with individuals most likely to be involved in gun violence, mediating conflicts before they escalate and connecting participants with job training, mental health services, and other supportive resources.
The city’s response to the motor vehicle theft epidemic of early 2024 demonstrates how targeted initiatives can address specific crime surges. Metro Nashville Police partnered with Kia and Hyundai to provide free anti-theft software updates to thousands of vehicle owners after these makes and models became prime targets due to social media-driven theft techniques. This technological solution, combined with enhanced patrols in areas experiencing high auto theft rates and public awareness campaigns, contributed to the deceleration and eventual decline in vehicle thefts as 2024 progressed. The 28.4 percent reduction in commercial robberies in 2024 reflects successful partnerships between police and business owners to enhance security measures, improve lighting, install surveillance systems, and train employees in robbery prevention and response. The 27 percent decrease in home burglaries in early 2025 similarly reflects increased community engagement through neighborhood watch programs, residential security improvements, and targeted patrols in areas that experienced burglary spikes in 2024.
Economic Impact of Crime in Nashville 2024 and 2025
| Economic Impact Category | Estimated Cost/Impact | Source/Basis | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Victim Costs | $200-300 million annually | Property loss, medical expenses | Theft, injury treatment, property damage |
| Criminal Justice System Costs | $150-200 million annually | Police, courts, corrections | Law enforcement operations, prosecution, incarceration |
| Lost Productivity | $100-150 million annually | Victim absence, incarceration | Workers unable to work due to victimization or incarceration |
| Property Value Impact | 5-15% reduction in high-crime areas | Real estate analysis | Lower home values in high-crime neighborhoods |
| Business Investment Impact | Reduced investment | Business location decisions | Companies avoid high-crime areas |
| Tourism and Reputation | Difficult to quantify | Visitor perception | Crime news affects city image |
| Insurance Premiums | 15-25% higher in high-crime areas | Auto and property insurance | Elevated rates reflect crime risk |
| Total Annual Economic Impact | $500-800 million (estimated) | Combined factors | Total cost to Nashville economy |
Data Source: National Crime Cost Estimates, Metropolitan Statistical Analysis, Insurance Industry Data, Economic Research
The economic impact of crime in Nashville for 2024 and 2025 extends far beyond the immediate harm to individual victims, imposing substantial costs on the entire community through direct expenses, reduced property values, and deterred economic development. Direct costs to crime victims in Nashville likely exceed $200 to $300 million annually, including stolen property, damaged goods, medical expenses for assault victims, and the immediate financial burden of replacing stolen vehicles or repairing burglarized homes and businesses. The criminal justice system costs associated with investigating crimes, prosecuting offenders, and incarcerating convicted criminals add another estimated $150 to $200 million to Nashville’s annual crime bill, funded through taxpayer dollars that could otherwise be directed toward education, infrastructure, or economic development initiatives.
The indirect economic costs of crime in Nashville in 2024 may actually exceed the direct expenses, though they are more difficult to quantify precisely. Property values in high-crime neighborhoods typically trade at 5 to 15 percent discounts compared to similar properties in safer areas, representing hundreds of millions of dollars in reduced home equity for Nashville residents in affected neighborhoods. Lost productivity from workers who are victimized by crime or incarcerated for committing crimes costs the Nashville economy an estimated $100 to $150 million annually in reduced economic output. Business investment decisions are influenced by crime rates, with companies sometimes choosing to locate facilities in lower-crime suburban areas rather than urban neighborhoods, depriving those communities of jobs and tax revenue. Insurance premiums for both auto and property coverage run 15 to 25 percent higher in high-crime areas compared to safer neighborhoods, imposing an ongoing financial burden on residents. When all direct and indirect costs are considered, the total annual economic impact of crime on Nashville likely ranges from $500 to $800 million, representing a substantial drag on the city’s economy and quality of life.
Neighborhood Safety Variations in Nashville 2024 and 2025
| Neighborhood Type | Relative Safety Level | Characteristics | Crime Concerns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown/Central | Moderate | High police presence, improving trends | Property crime, nightlife-related incidents |
| Green Hills/Belle Meade | High | Affluent, low crime rates | Minimal violent crime, some property crime |
| East Nashville | Moderate | Gentrifying, mixed income | Auto theft epidemic, violent crime present |
| North Nashville | Lower | Historic challenges, improving | Elevated violent crime, property crime |
| South Nashville | Moderate | Diverse, mixed safety profile | Rape reports concern, property crime |
| Hermitage | Moderate | Suburban feel, mixed trends | Some violent crime increases |
| Madison | Moderate-Lower | Working class, varied safety | Larceny increases, some violent crime |
| West Nashville | Moderate | Varied neighborhoods | Robbery increases significant concern |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department Precinct Data, NeighborhoodScout, Local Crime Maps
The neighborhood safety variations in Nashville for 2024 and 2025 demonstrate that crime experiences differ dramatically depending on where residents live, work, and spend time in the city. Affluent neighborhoods like Green Hills and Belle Meade maintain notably lower crime rates across all categories, with minimal violent crime and property crime rates well below city averages. These areas benefit from higher property values that support robust tax bases, active neighborhood associations, private security services, and physical characteristics like cul-de-sacs and gated communities that deter criminal activity. Residents in these neighborhoods face crime risks more comparable to suburban and rural Tennessee communities than to Nashville’s urban core.
Conversely, North Nashville continues to experience some of the city’s highest crime rates, with elevated levels of violent crime including homicides, aggravated assaults, and robberies, alongside significant property crime challenges. The area has faced long-term economic disinvestment, though recent development initiatives and community programs aim to address these challenges. East Nashville, which has undergone significant gentrification in recent years, presents a mixed safety picture, with some sections experiencing rapid improvement while others continue to struggle with crime, particularly the 81.9 percent surge in auto thefts observed in 2024. The downtown and Central Precinct area has shown remarkable improvement, with burglaries down 70 percent in early 2024, though the concentration of entertainment venues, tourists, and nightlife creates ongoing challenges with alcohol-related incidents, assaults, and property crimes targeting visitors. Understanding these geographic variations is essential for Nashville residents making decisions about where to live, invest in property, or establish businesses, as neighborhood-level crime rates can vary by factors of three to five times between the safest and most dangerous areas of the city.
Demographic Factors and Crime Victimization in Nashville 2024
| Demographic Factor | Victimization Pattern | Research Findings | Nashville Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | Young adults (18-34) highest risk | National crime victim surveys | Elevated risk in entertainment districts |
| Gender | Males higher violent crime risk | Men 75%+ of homicide victims | Females higher sexual assault risk |
| Race/Ethnicity | Minorities disproportionately affected | Structural inequality factors | Disparities exist in Nashville |
| Income Level | Lower income higher victimization | Economic vulnerability | Poverty rate ~13-15% in Nashville |
| Housing Status | Renters higher risk than owners | Residential instability | Rental market growing rapidly |
| Employment Status | Unemployed elevated risk | Limited routine activity protection | Varies by neighborhood |
| Prior Victimization | Previous victims at higher risk | Repeat victimization patterns | Pattern observed locally |
Data Source: National Crime Victimization Survey, Bureau of Justice Statistics, Academic Research, Local Analysis
The demographic factors and crime victimization patterns in Nashville in 2024 reflect broader national trends while exhibiting some unique local characteristics. Young adults between ages 18 and 34 face the highest risk of violent crime victimization, both nationally and in Nashville, where entertainment districts, nightlife venues, and the concentration of young professionals and college students create environments where interpersonal conflicts can escalate. Gender plays a significant role in victimization patterns, with males comprising an estimated 75 percent or more of homicide victims in Nashville, consistent with national patterns where men face higher risks of lethal violence, aggravated assault, and robbery. However, females face dramatically higher risks of sexual assault, as evidenced by the 627 rape reports in 2024, though experts emphasize that women likely experience sexual violence at even higher rates than official statistics reflect due to substantial underreporting.
Race, ethnicity, and income level intersect to create disparate victimization risks across Nashville communities, with minority residents and lower-income individuals experiencing elevated exposure to both violent and property crime. These disparities stem not from individual characteristics but from structural factors including residential segregation, economic inequality, differential policing patterns, and the geographic concentration of poverty in certain neighborhoods that experience higher crime rates. Nashville’s poverty rate of 13 to 15 percent means that more than 90,000 residents live below the federal poverty line, and these economically vulnerable individuals are more likely to reside in neighborhoods with elevated crime rates while having fewer resources to invest in security measures or relocate to safer areas. Housing instability also correlates with victimization risk, as renters generally face higher crime exposure than homeowners due to residential transience, lower community cohesion in rental-heavy areas, and fewer personal security investments. Understanding these demographic patterns is essential for designing targeted intervention programs that address the elevated victimization risks faced by Nashville’s most vulnerable populations.
Seasonal Crime Patterns in Nashville 2024
| Season | Crime Pattern | Peak Months | Contributing Factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June-August) | Highest violent crime | July-August | Heat, school breaks, outdoor activity |
| Spring (March-May) | Rising crime rates | April-May | Weather improvement, increased activity |
| Fall (September-November) | Moderate crime levels | September | Back-to-school transition |
| Winter (December-February) | Lower violent crime | January-February | Cold weather, indoor activity |
| Holiday Periods | Property crime spikes | November-December | Shopping activity, package theft |
| Summer Homicide Spike | Deadliest period | June-August 2024 | Erased early-year gains |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Seasonal Crime Research, Historical Pattern Analysis
The seasonal crime patterns in Nashville throughout 2024 followed predictable national trends, with violent crime peaking during summer months and property crime spiking during holiday shopping periods. The summer surge in homicides proved particularly devastating in 2024, erasing the promising gains made during the first half of the year when homicides were down nearly 20 percent. The months of June, July, and August typically see Nashville’s highest rates of aggravated assault, shooting incidents, and homicides, as warmer weather brings more people outdoors into public spaces where interpersonal conflicts can escalate, while heat itself has been shown to contribute to aggression and violence. School breaks also contribute to summer crime increases, as young people have more unsupervised time and may become involved in risky behaviors.
Property crime in Nashville in 2024 showed different seasonal patterns, with holiday periods from November through December experiencing elevated rates of larceny-theft, particularly shoplifting and package theft as online shopping deliveries create opportunities for porch pirates. Winter months of January and February typically see the lowest violent crime rates as cold weather keeps people indoors and reduces the spontaneous interactions that can lead to assaults and robberies. The recognition of these seasonal patterns has led Nashville law enforcement to adjust deployment strategies, with enhanced patrols and violence intervention efforts during summer months and increased attention to retail areas and residential neighborhoods during holiday shopping seasons. The 2025 crime reduction trends suggest that these seasonal strategies may be proving effective, though summer 2025 data will be critical to determining whether the city can maintain its improvements during historically high-crime months.
Future Crime Outlook for Nashville 2025 and Beyond
The future crime outlook for Nashville in 2025 and beyond appears cautiously optimistic based on current trends, though sustaining improvements will require continued investment in both law enforcement and community-based prevention programs. If the trends observed through mid-2025 hold for the remainder of the year, Nashville will achieve historic lows in both homicides and robberies, potentially reaching the lowest homicide rate in 60 years and the lowest robbery rate since 1972. The nearly 10 percent reduction in violent crime and 35 percent decrease in shooting victims through June 2025 represent substantial progress that, if maintained, would significantly improve Nashville’s national ranking and narrow the gap with safer cities. The 27 percent reduction in home burglaries and continuing decline in motor vehicle theft also suggest that property crime trends are improving after the concerning increases observed in early 2024.
However, several challenges threaten Nashville’s ability to sustain these improvements beyond 2025. The 20 percent increase in reported rapes in 2024 requires urgent attention, as this was the only major violent crime category moving in the wrong direction. The geographic disparities in crime reduction, with some precincts experiencing increases while others see dramatic decreases, indicate that successes in certain areas have not been replicated citywide. Police staffing shortages continue to strain the department’s capacity to maintain current service levels while expanding successful programs. Most fundamentally, the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to crime—including income inequality, poverty, educational disparities, substance abuse, and mental health challenges—remain largely unaddressed by short-term crime reduction strategies. Nashville’s long-term public safety depends not just on effective policing but on investments in education, economic opportunity, affordable housing, mental health services, and violence prevention programs that address root causes rather than merely responding to symptoms. The 2025 improvements demonstrate that progress is possible, but converting short-term gains into sustained reductions will require comprehensive approaches that engage the entire community in creating safer neighborhoods for all Nashville residents.
Police Department Funding and Resources in Nashville 2025
| Funding Category | FY2025 Budget | FY2026 Proposed | Change/Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Police Budget | $345.9 million | ~$367-388 million | Increased investment |
| Personnel Costs | ~85-90% of budget | ~85-90% of budget | Majority of spending |
| Police Hiring Since 2023 | 250 new officers | Continuing recruitment | Addressing staffing gaps |
| Current Staffing Vacancies | 157 openings (mid-2024) | Ongoing recruitment | Chronic shortage |
| Body Camera Program | Fully funded | Expanding | All officers equipped |
| Southeast Precinct | Under construction | Opening soon | New facility in Antioch |
| Alternative Response Unit (D-Detail) | Launched Feb 2025 | Expanding | Handles 1,800+ calls |
| Office of Youth Safety | Expanding | Additional staff | Violence prevention focus |
| Office of Family Safety | $637,000 increase | 6 new staff positions | Domestic violence support |
| Pre-O’Connell Budget (FY2023) | $305 million | N/A | Baseline comparison |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Budget Documents, Mayor’s Office, MNPD, Axios Nashville, WKRN
The police department funding and resources in Nashville for 2025 reflect substantial investment increases under Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s administration, with the police budget growing from $305 million before O’Connell took office to $345.9 million in the current fiscal year. The FY2026 proposed budget includes additional increases, with estimates ranging from $367 to $388 million depending on final Metro Council approval, representing a $40 to $83 million increase over two years. The overwhelming majority of police spending, approximately 85 to 90 percent, goes toward personnel costs including salaries, benefits, and overtime, leaving limited funds for equipment, technology, and facility improvements. This heavy personnel focus reflects the labor-intensive nature of policing and the department’s ongoing efforts to increase staffing levels.
The Metro Nashville Police Department hired 250 new officers between 2023 and mid-2025, a significant recruitment achievement aimed at addressing chronic staffing shortages that have plagued the department for years. Despite this hiring success, the department still had 157 vacant positions as of mid-2024, indicating that recruitment continues to struggle to keep pace with attrition as officers retire, resign, or transfer to other departments. The personnel challenges impact the department’s ability to maintain adequate patrol coverage, conduct thorough investigations, and implement community policing strategies across all eight precincts. Overtime costs remain substantial as the department relies on existing officers working extra shifts to cover vacancies, particularly in high-crime areas and during major events. The Alternative Police Response Unit (D-Detail), launched on February 1, 2025, represents an innovative approach to managing call volume, with specialized officers handling more than 1,800 calls for low-priority incidents that don’t require traditional patrol response, contributing to an average 10.3-minute reduction in overall police response times countywide.
Public Opinion and Community Perceptions of Crime in Nashville 2025
| Public Opinion Metric | Finding | Source | Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crime as Top Concern | Consistently ranked top 3 | Various surveys | Influences elections, policy |
| Perception vs Reality | Fear often exceeds actual risk | Crime victimization research | Media coverage amplifies concern |
| Confidence in Police | Mixed, varies by demographic | Community surveys | Race, experience affect views |
| Support for Prevention Programs | Generally high | Nashville People’s Budget Coalition | Desire for holistic approaches |
| Budget Priorities | Divided between enforcement and services | Public budget hearings | Reflects political tensions |
| Neighborhood Safety Satisfaction | Varies dramatically by area | NeighborhoodScout | Geographic inequality in perception |
| Tourism Impact Concern | Moderate | Business community | Crime news affects visitor decisions |
Data Source: Public Opinion Surveys, Community Organization Research, Metro Council Hearings, Media Analysis
The public opinion and community perceptions of crime in Nashville in 2025 reveal that residents’ feelings about safety often diverge from statistical realities, with fear of crime sometimes exceeding actual victimization risks. Crime consistently ranks among the top three concerns in Nashville public opinion surveys, influencing electoral politics, public policy debates, and individual decisions about where to live, work, and invest. This heightened concern exists even as crime rates have improved significantly in 2025, suggesting that public perception lags behind statistical improvements and is heavily influenced by media coverage of dramatic incidents like homicides, mass shootings, and robberies rather than overall trend data.
Community confidence in police varies substantially across demographic groups, with race, income, age, and personal experiences significantly shaping attitudes toward law enforcement. The Nashville People’s Budget Coalition, which has pushed for reducing police funding by $15 million and redirecting resources toward community services, education, housing, and violence intervention programs, reflects one segment of public opinion that views crime as rooted in social and economic conditions requiring non-law-enforcement solutions. This perspective emphasizes that 82 percent of arrests made by Nashville police in recent years were for non-serious, non-violent offenses, suggesting that police resources are often deployed for low-level incidents that might be better addressed through alternative responses. Conversely, police union representatives and many residents argue that reduced police funding would lead to fewer officers on Nashville streets and potentially higher crime rates. These divided opinions were evident in Metro Council budget hearings where community members passionately advocated for both increased police resources and greater investment in community-based alternatives, reflecting Nashville’s ongoing struggle to balance traditional law enforcement with innovative prevention strategies.
Technology and Data-Driven Policing in Nashville 2025
| Technology Initiative | Implementation Status | Purpose | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body-Worn Cameras | Fully deployed | Officer accountability, evidence | Universal coverage achieved |
| Police Helicopters | 2 new helicopters funded | Aerial surveillance, pursuit | Enhanced tactical capabilities |
| Crime Analysis Software | Active use | Pattern identification, resource deployment | Supports precision policing |
| COMPSTAT System | Weekly deployment | Data-driven accountability | Command-level decision making |
| Real-Time Crime Center | Operational | Video monitoring, coordination | Faster emergency response |
| Shot Spotter Technology | Limited deployment | Gunfire detection | Early gunshot notification |
| Automated License Plate Readers | Expanding network | Vehicle tracking, stolen car recovery | Auto theft investigations |
| Data Dashboard Public Access | Available online | Transparency, public information | UCR reports accessible |
| 311 System Enhancement | Improved integration | Non-emergency reporting | Reduces 911 burden |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department, Budget Documents, Technology Procurement Records
The technology and data-driven policing initiatives in Nashville in 2025 represent significant investments in modernizing law enforcement capabilities and enhancing transparency. The universal deployment of body-worn cameras to all Metro Nashville Police officers marks a major achievement in accountability and evidence collection, with the technology providing objective records of police-citizen interactions and generating valuable evidence for prosecutions. The cameras have been credited with both exonerating officers falsely accused of misconduct and providing evidence in cases where officers used excessive force, enhancing public trust and departmental accountability. The $2.6 million investment in two new police helicopters expands the department’s aerial surveillance and pursuit capabilities, allowing officers to track suspects, monitor large events, and respond to emergencies in areas difficult to access by ground.
The crime analysis and data systems employed by Nashville police enable more strategic deployment of resources based on identified patterns and trends rather than random patrol strategies. The COMPSTAT system, used in weekly command staff meetings, holds precinct commanders accountable for crime trends in their areas and requires data-driven explanations for increases or decreases in specific crime categories. The Real-Time Crime Center coordinates video monitoring from city cameras, license plate readers, and private security systems to support officers responding to active incidents, significantly reducing response times and improving situational awareness. Shot Spotter technology, which uses acoustic sensors to detect and locate gunfire, has been deployed in limited areas of Nashville experiencing high gun violence, automatically alerting police to shooting incidents even when witnesses don’t call 911. These technological investments have contributed to the 35 percent reduction in shooting victims observed in 2025, though privacy advocates have raised concerns about surveillance expansion and data retention practices. The enhanced 311 system for non-emergency reporting has diverted thousands of low-priority calls from 911 operators, allowing emergency dispatchers to focus on urgent situations while still addressing community concerns about quality-of-life issues and minor offenses.
Comparison with Pre-Pandemic Crime Levels in Nashville 2019-2025
| Crime Category | 2019 (Pre-Pandemic) | 2024 Level | 2025 Trend (Mid-Year) | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Homicides | ~87-95 | 104 | On pace for ~85-90 | Potentially below 2019 |
| Violent Crime Rate | ~1,000-1,100 per 100,000 | 1,124.1 per 100,000 | Down 10% | Approaching pre-pandemic |
| Property Crime | ~30,000-32,000 incidents | ~28,500 | Declining | Below 2019 in some categories |
| Auto Theft | Lower baseline | Surged in 2024 | Declining rapidly | Above 2019 but improving |
| Robbery | ~1,300-1,400 | ~1,176 | Potentially lowest since 1972 | Significantly below 2019 |
| Aggravated Assault | ~6,000-6,500 | ~5,584 | Declining | Below 2019 levels |
Data Source: Metro Nashville Police Department Historical UCR Reports, FBI Crime Data Explorer
The comparison of Nashville crime statistics between pre-pandemic 2019 levels and 2024-2025 reveals that the city is approaching or surpassing pre-COVID safety conditions in most crime categories, with some metrics potentially reaching multi-decade lows. Before the pandemic, Nashville recorded approximately 87 to 95 homicides annually in the late 2010s, with 2019 seeing 89 homicides according to historical UCR data. The 104 homicides in 2024 represented an increase over that baseline, but the 2025 trajectory through mid-year suggests the city could end the year with 85 to 90 homicides, which would mark the lowest total since the 1960s and represent a return to or improvement upon pre-pandemic levels. The violent crime rate of approximately 1,000 to 1,100 per 100,000 in 2019 compares favorably to the 1,124.1 rate in 2024, but the 10 percent decline observed through mid-2025 suggests the city is rapidly returning to or surpassing pre-pandemic safety levels.
Property crime trends in Nashville from 2019 through 2025 show mixed patterns, with some categories declining substantially while others experienced pandemic-related surges before recent improvements. Total property crimes in 2019 ranged from 30,000 to 32,000 incidents, compared to an estimated 28,500 in 2024, suggesting overall improvement. However, motor vehicle theft presents a different story, with the nationwide surge in auto thefts beginning in 2020 due to social media-driven theft techniques targeting specific vehicle makes, particularly Kia and Hyundai models lacking electronic immobilizers. Nashville experienced this surge dramatically in early 2024 before the trend began reversing as manufacturers issued software updates and police implemented targeted enforcement strategies. Robberies show the most dramatic improvement compared to pre-pandemic levels, with the 1,176 robberies in 2024 representing a substantial decline from the 1,300 to 1,400 recorded in 2019, and the 2025 projection suggesting Nashville could achieve its lowest robbery rate since 1972, far surpassing pre-pandemic safety levels. Aggravated assaults, estimated at 5,584 in 2024, also represent improvement over the 6,000 to 6,500 incidents typical of 2019, indicating that Nashville has successfully reduced serious violent crime below pre-pandemic baselines in multiple categories despite ongoing challenges in other areas.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
