In 2025 London recorded a historic low of 97 murders, a homicide rate of 1.1 per 100,000 people, challenging claims that the capital is lawless. The police commissioner called London "an extraordinarily safe global city" and criticised a "crazily polarized debate" amplified by remarks from Elon Musk and Donald Trump. Public polls show most residents feel safe, though property crimes such as phone snatching and shoplifting have risen.
London Hits Record‑Low Homicide Rate in 2025 — Undercuts 'Lawless City' Claims
London recorded its lowest-ever homicide rate in 2025, a development that runs counter to repeated assertions that the city has become lawless. Last year 97 people were murdered in the capital — a rate of 1.1 per 100,000 people — marking a historic low.
Key Figures and Context
For context, New York City — which has seen a long-term fall in violent crime since the 1990s — reports a homicide rate of 2.8 per 100,000, substantially higher than London’s 2025 figure. The contrast highlights how London’s homicide levels remain low by international metropolitan standards.
Official Reaction
“An extraordinarily safe global city,” said London’s police commissioner, who also expressed frustration at what he called a “crazily polarized debate” stoked by public comments from figures such as Elon Musk and former US President Donald Trump suggesting widespread lawlessness.
Public Perception And Other Crimes
Opinion polls show that most Londoners generally feel safe in the city. However, officials and residents have noted a rise in property crime in recent years, particularly phone snatching and shoplifting, which remain priorities for local policing and community action.
While the low homicide rate is a notable achievement, authorities stress the need to tackle non-violent offences and improve public confidence through targeted enforcement, prevention programs and better reporting.
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