There's remarkable news in the world of home security: residential burglaries have plummeted by 19% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Even more impressive, today's burglary rates are 47% lower than 2019 levels.
But before you get too comfortable, there's more to this story. While the numbers are encouraging, a burglary still occurs somewhere in the United States every 25.7 seconds. Understanding why rates are falling—and what still puts homes at risk—is essential for keeping your family and property safe.
2025 Burglary Statistics at a Glance
The Good News: Crime Is Declining
According to the Council on Criminal Justice's mid-year 2025 update, residential burglary rates have dropped significantly across major U.S. cities. February saw the largest decrease at 26%, with June close behind at 21%.
This isn't just a temporary blip. The data represents a consistent downward trend that has been building for years. In 2023, there were 839,563 burglaries in the U.S.—dramatically lower than the 2.1 million reported in 2004.
Why the Decline? Security Awareness Works
The drop in burglary rates isn't happening by accident. It's the result of increased security awareness and smarter home protection strategies. Here's what's making the difference:
More Homes Have Alarm Systems
39 million U.S. households now have alarm systems, with 13 million more planning to install them within a year.
Visible Deterrents Are Effective
83% of burglars specifically check for alarm systems before attempting a break-in. When they spot security measures, 60% choose a different target.
Technology Has Become Affordable
Modern security systems with cameras, motion sensors, and mobile alerts are more accessible than ever, making protection available to more homeowners.
When Do Burglaries Actually Happen? The Surprising Truth
Ask most people when burglaries occur and they'll say "the middle of the night." The data tells a different story:
Peak Burglary Times
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: The highest-risk window when homes appear empty
- Around Midnight: Still sees 59,975 burglaries annually
- Summer Months: The highest seasonal rates for break-ins
Why the afternoon peak? Burglars know this is when most people are at work or running errands. Homes appear unoccupied, neighbors are gone, and there's still daylight to see what they're doing.
Where Burglars Get In
Understanding how burglars enter homes is crucial for effective protection:
Front Door
34%First-Floor Windows
23%Back Door
22%Other Entry Points
21%6 Simple Steps to Protect Your Home
The good news is that you don't need expensive systems to significantly reduce your risk. Here are proven strategies that work:
Make Security Visible
Display alarm system signs and stickers prominently. 83% of burglars specifically look for alarm systems before choosing a target.
Reinforce Entry Points
Since 34% of burglars enter through the front door, install deadbolts, reinforce door frames, and ensure all locks are high-quality.
Light Up Your Property
Use motion-activated lights around entry points. Burglars prefer darkness and will often skip well-lit homes.
Secure Windows
First-floor windows account for 23% of break-ins. Keep them locked, consider window sensors, and trim nearby landscaping.
Create the Illusion of Occupancy
Use timers for lights when away. Most burglaries occur between 4-6 PM when homes appear empty.
Know Your High-Risk Times
Peak burglary times are 4-6 PM and around midnight. Be extra vigilant during summer months when rates are highest.
The Psychology of Deterrence
Here's the most powerful statistic: Only 13% of burglars will continue with a break-in after discovering an alarm system is present.
This isn't about having the most expensive security technology. It's about visible deterrence. Burglars are opportunists—they want easy targets with minimal risk. The mere presence of security signs, cameras, or motion-activated lights sends a clear message: this home is protected.
That's why the decline in burglary rates correlates so strongly with increased security awareness. As more homes adopt even basic security measures, criminals find fewer easy opportunities.
Why You Can't Afford to Be Complacent
While the overall trend is positive, there are still 839,563 burglaries per yearin the United States. That's one every 25.7 seconds. The average loss per incident is $2,661, not counting the emotional toll or potential increase in insurance premiums.
More concerning: 48% of violent crimes occur in residences. While most burglars simply want to grab valuables and leave, unexpected confrontations can turn dangerous.
The declining numbers don't mean criminals have disappeared—they mean that smarter security practices are working. Homes without any protection are increasingly becoming the outliers, and unfortunately, the targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are burglary rates really declining in 2025?
Yes, residential burglaries decreased by 19% in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024, and are 47% lower than 2019 levels. This decline is attributed to increased security awareness and more homes having alarm systems.
When do most burglaries occur?
Contrary to popular belief, most burglaries occur during daytime hours between 4 PM and 6 PM when people are typically away from home. Midnight is also a high-risk time with 59,975 annual cases.
How effective are alarm systems at preventing burglaries?
83% of burglars check for alarm systems before attempting a break-in, and 60% will abandon the target if they detect an alarm. Only 13% continue after discovering a security system is present.
What is the most common entry point for burglars?
Front doors are the most common entry point at 34%, followed by first-floor windows at 23% and back doors at 22%.
The Bottom Line
The 19% decline in burglaries is excellent news and proof that security measures work. But it's not a reason to let your guard down—it's validation that protection matters.
The homes being broken into today are increasingly those without basic security. Visible deterrents, reinforced entry points, and smart habits like using timers and motion lights can dramatically reduce your risk.
Remember: 60% of burglars will skip your home if they see signs of an alarm system. That's not just a statistic—it's a powerful reminder that even simple security measures create real protection.
Protect What Matters Most
Join the 39 million households that have taken the smart step toward home protection. Get a free consultation to learn which security measures are right for your home.