Serial Killers by Decade (Decade of First Kill)

Serial Killers By Decade Worldwide

Numbers of serial killers by decade reflect only known information since 1900, source: Radford University/FGCU Serial Killer Database

Decade	US	International	Total
1900	49	23	72
1910	52	23	75
1920	62	41	103
1930	55	31	86
1940	55	45	100
1950	72	41	113
1960	217	76	293
1970	605	160	765
1980	768	217	985
1990	669	322	991
2000	371	295	666
2010	117	113	230

Decade-by-Decade Decline in Serial Killers

The chart illustrates a significant trend in the history of serial crimes: the number of documented serial killers has been steadily declining since the 1980s. In the United States, the drop is particularly steep. From a peak of over 700 cases in the 1980s, numbers have decreased dramatically in the following decades. A similar, though less dramatic, trend is visible internationally.

This shift may be attributed to several factors: advancements in forensic science such as DNA analysis, criminal profiling, and digital surveillance have made it harder for serial offenders to evade capture. Additionally, improved law enforcement coordination and earlier interventions may be preventing potential offenders from escalating to serial patterns.

Serial killers by decade

Why the U.S. Appears to Lead in Serial Killer Cases

At first glance, it may seem that the United States has produced far more serial killers than the rest of the world combined. While the numbers support that impression, it’s important to consider the context behind the data. The U.S. has:

More consistent and comprehensive crime reporting
A broader definition of what constitutes a “serial killer”
Extensive media coverage, which can exaggerate perception

Internationally, definitions and reporting standards vary greatly. In some countries, serial crimes may be underreported, unsolved, or never labeled as serial offenses.

Data Limitations and Confirmation Bias

It’s worth noting that this chart only reflects confirmed cases those identified and recorded by investigators. There may be unrecognized patterns, especially in regions with limited investigative resources or political instability.

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