Crime statistics help researchers and government agencies understand patterns of crime in society. The two main ways crime is measured in the United States are the Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) and the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The UCR collects information reported by police departments, while the NCVS surveys victims directly. Many crimes are never reported to police, so the NCVS often shows higher crime rates than official reports.

Violent crime includes homicide, robbery, aggravated assault, and sexual assault. Homicide is one of the most serious violent crimes and is most often committed by males using firearms. Violent crime can create fear and insecurity in communities. Property crime is more common than violent crime and includes burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft. Although property crimes may not always involve violence, they still cause financial and emotional harm to victims.

The United States also has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world. Millions of people are currently in prisons or jails. Studies show that young adults, especially males in their late teens and early twenties, commit more crimes than older adults. Crime rates can also vary by social class, neighborhood conditions, and access to education and employment opportunities.

Crime statistics show that poverty and inequality are strongly connected to higher crime rates in many communities. Sociologists believe that improving schools, reducing poverty, and investing in community programs can help lower crime and create safer neighborhoods.