Kansas City Crime Rate: Latest Data, Hotspots & Safe Neighborhood Guide

Kansas City, Missouri, is famous for jazz, a strong arts scene, and barbecue that people travel for. It’s a big Midwest city with a lot going on, and it keeps growing. At the same time, safety is something many people think about here, because busy city life can come with real risks. So, is Kansas City MO safe?

This blog looks at the Kansas City crime rates from 2024, so you can see what the situation is like right now. We’ll also talk about how crime has changed over the years, which neighborhoods are known for feeling safer, where crime shows up more often, and a few practical tips that can help you stay safe day to day.

Kansas City Crime Rate: The Facts and Figures

First things first, let’s take a look at the latest Kansas City MO crime rate in this part. We will also examine how these rates stack up against broader benchmarks.

Current Crime Rate in Kansas City

According to the latest FBI 2024 data, Kansas City, MO, with a population of approximately 510,000, reported a violent crime rate of about 1,478 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2024. This includes offenses like murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. The property crime rate stood at around 5,002 per 100,000, including burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft.

Based on the USAFacts’ crime rate report, Missouri's statewide violent crime rate was approximately 690 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 359 per 100,000. Missouri’s property crimes hovered around 1,941 per 100,000, also exceeding the U.S. figure of 1,760. That is to say, in comparison, the Kansas City crime rate is notably above both(regional & national), positioning it as one of the more challenged urban areas.

Meanwhile, other major Missouri cities, St. Louis, Missouri, Springfield, Missouri, and Columbia, also show much lower crime burdens than Kansas City in 2024.

• Louis reported a violent-crime rate of around 1,367 per 100,000, and Springfield about 1,178 per 100,000. Both are lower than Kansas City.
• Columbia’s violent crime rate was substantially lower, which is roughly 400 per 100,000.
• On the property-crime front, Springfield’s 2024 estimate was around 4,184 per 100,000, compared with the crime rate in Kansas City Missouri (5,002 per 100,000).

Common Types of Crimes in Kansas City

Based on FBI data for Kansas City and the UCR Summary of Reported Crimes in the Nation, 2024, we have compiled a table that shows the common crime types, local rates per 100,000 residents, and comparisons to the 2024 national averages.

How Has Kansas City’s Crime Rate Changed Over Time

According to data drawn from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR), compiled by a public-data aggregator:

• Violent crime in Kansas City rose significantly from around 2010 through 2017.
• The peak recorded in this window was 2017 (≈ 1,724 per 100K).
• After 2017, there was a drop by 2019, but then rates bounced back in 2020. Then, with a modest dip, it increased again by 2024.
• The 2024 violent crime rate remains well above the early-2010s levels.

Violent crime is only one dimension, while property crimes are another:

• In 2010, the property crime rate was 5,642 per 100,000 residents.
• It dropped steadily to 4,483 by 2015, and reached a low around 2019 (3,888 per 100,000).
• After 2019, property crime rose again: 4,741 in 2022, 4,980 in 2023, and 4,694 in 2024.
• The property crime dipped during the mid-2010s, then resurged in the early 2020s.

Overall, Kansas City underwent a substantial uptick in violent crime from 2010 to 2017, possibly due to broader social, economic, or policy conditions. There was a partial reprieve in 2018-2019, where violent crime dropped noticeably, and property crime also declined deeply.

Since 2020, both violent and property crime rates have increased, returning to or exceeding mid-2010s peaks. As of 2024, the violent crime rate remains elevated (far higher than in 2010), and property crime has bounced back from its earlier decrease.

Safest Areas and Crime Hotspots in Kansas City

So, is Kansas City safe? The answer really depends on where you plan to live or visit.

Safest Areasin Kansas City

Based on data from a local Kansas Safety Report, here are the safest neighborhoods in Kansas City.

These areas consistently rank as the safest places to live in Kansas City thanks to strong community engagement, well-maintained neighborhoods, and widespread security camera coverage.

Crime Hotspots in Kansas City

So what about the crime hot spots? According to a dataset from The Global Statistics, these are the highest-risk areas in Kansas City, with significantly elevated violent and property crime rates.

These hotspots seem to struggle with higher population density, economic challenges, and lower access to community resources, all factors that could drive up the Kansas City crime rate.

Safety Tips for Living in Kansas City

Now that you have a clear picture of the Kansas City crime rate, here are some practical steps to help you stay safe, whether you are a resident or visitor.

1. Keep your home secured with strong deadbolts and smart security systems.For outdoor monitoring, consider the eufyCam S4 to cover your car, backyard, and driveway. The camera offers 2K resolution, long battery life, night vision, and a weatherproof design, providing reliable outdoor surveillance for enhanced home security and peace of mind.

2. Use video doorbells to monitor package deliveries and front-door activity.For instance, the Video Doorbell E340 is highly effective. The device features 2K HD video, motion detection, two-way audio, and instant alerts, helping you track visitors, deliveries, and front-door activity seamlessly.

3. Use indoor surveillancesuch as the Indoor Cam S350 for inside monitoring, ideal for shared flats or living rooms. It offers pan-and-tilt coverage, 2K video quality, AI motion detection, and two-way audio, ensuring your indoor spaces are constantly monitored.

4. For larger homes, consider comprehensive security solutions, like the eufy PoE NVR Security System S4 Max. The system provides 4K triple lens bullet PTZ recording, multiple camera support, 24/7 monitoring, and high-capacity storage, offering complete coverage for big homes or multi-floor properties.

Another excellent option is the eufy ExpertSecure System, combining sensors, smart alarms, and AI-assisted threat detection. It delivers encrypted storage, multi-device management, and professional-grade monitoring for comprehensive home protection and enhanced security across all areas.

5. Build relationships with neighbors, report suspicious activity, and join local watch programs. Strong community connections improve awareness, deter crime, and create a safer environment for everyone in the neighborhood.
6. Choose well-lit, high-traffic parking areas.Lock doors, hide valuables, and use anti-theft devices. These actions reduce the risk of theft or vandalism and protect your vehicle and belongings effectively.
7. For renting, select apartments with gated entrances, video doorbells, and security cameras. Controlled access and visible surveillance deter intruders, provide safety for residents, and enhance security in shared or multi-unit buildings.

Conclusion

Kansas City, MO, continues to face higher-than-average crime rates in 2024, with a violent crime rate of 1,478 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 5,002 per 100,000, well above both state and national averages. While the Kansas City crime rate has fluctuated over the past decade, both violent and property crimes remain elevated compared to early-2010s levels.

Certain neighborhoods, such as Country Club Plaza and Blue Hills Estates, remain relatively safe, while areas like East Kansas City and the Central Patrol Division experience significantly higher incidents. To help protect your home and family, consider eufy’s reliable security solutions for comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

FAQs

Where does Kansas City rank for crime?

According to KCTV5’s report, Kansas City ranks among the top 10 U.S. cities with the highest crime rates in 2024. Its violent crime rate of 1,478 per 100,000 exceeds many peers.

This positions it as more challenged than cities like Springfield or Columbia in Missouri, but efforts like focused deterrence are showing progress.

Nationally, it's above average, reflecting urban issues, though the KC police’s 2025 early data indicates declines in homicides and robberies.

Is Kansas City a good place to live?

Kansas City is an affordable city, with housing costs about 6% below the national average, making it attractive to families and young professionals. Its job market, particularly in tech and healthcare, continues to grow steadily.

The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene, from jazz and barbecue to family-friendly neighborhoods like Brookside.

While elevated crime rates call for caution, many residents still enjoy a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle without major issues.

Is Kansas City, MO safer than St. Louis, MO?

In 2024, Kansas City reported a slightly higher violent crime rate at 1,478 per 100,000, compared with St. Louis’s 1,367. Both cities face similar urban challenges, including population density and economic disparities.

Historically, St. Louis saw more homicides, but the recent 2025 Crime Rates in the U.S. Cities Report shows Kansas City edging ahead in overall violent incidents.

Property crime rates in both cities are comparable, and each has implemented programs aimed at reducing offenses.

Is it safe to walk around Kansas City at night?

Walking at night in Kansas City is generally safe in well-lit, popular areas like the Plaza or Downtown, but it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Neighborhoods such as Blue Hills Estates and Faireway Hills provide safer options for evening strolls thanks to strong community presence and good street lighting.

However, areas like East Kansas City and the Central Patrol Division can be risky after dark. In these spots, it’s safer to use rideshares, walk in groups, and take extra precautions.