Raleigh Sees Significant Crime Drop in 2025, Boosting Safety and Economic Activity
September 2, 2025
In 2025, Raleigh has seen a notable decrease in various crime categories, including property crimes down 12%, residential burglaries down 14%, and motor vehicle thefts down 27%, which has contributed to an improved perception of safety in the city.
Most crime categories in Raleigh have either decreased or remained stable this year, thanks in part to targeted police efforts in downtown and the Glenwood South area.
To enhance safety and visibility, the city established a 'hospitality district' around Glenwood South, Fayetteville Street, and the downtown transit mall, with increased police staffing including a captain, lieutenant, sergeants, and bike officers.
This initiative coincides with Raleigh's Summer Action Plan, which addresses increased visitor activity and aligns with a record 7.8% rise in Wake County tourism expenditures, totaling $3.5 billion in 2024.
Community engagement remains a priority, with programs like 'cops on the block,' 'Raleigh Hoop Nights,' and relaunching the Citizens Police Academy aimed at building trust and positive relationships between police and residents.
Despite overall crime reductions, noise violations have increased due to illegally modified mufflers on motorcycles and cars, prompting police to deploy saturation patrols and continue public education efforts.
The police's 'summer action plan,' focusing on nightlife, parks, greenways, and transportation hubs, has played a significant role in crime reduction, especially around nightlife districts.
Raleigh Police are reorganizing the Hospitality Unit, including Glenwood South, to improve patrol presence with ATVs that can access areas traditional vehicles cannot, receiving positive community feedback.
Violent crimes such as robberies and assaults have decreased slightly by 6% and 7% respectively, while the homicide rate remains steady at about 32 annually, indicating overall stability in violent crime.
Crime reduction efforts have been particularly effective downtown, with a 15% decrease in overall crime year-over-year and over 30% drops in larceny and motor vehicle theft, boosting economic activity and public confidence.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

Raleigh News & Observer • Sep 2, 2025
Crime down in Raleigh in 2025, with new emphasis on downtown, Glenwood South
ABC11 Raleigh-Durham • Sep 2, 2025
Raleigh sees drops across several crime categories as law enforcement stress community engagement