Vehicle thefts drop 23% in first half of 2025, continuing downward trend

Vehicle thefts continued to fall in the first half of 2025, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s analysis of reported thefts.

The nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and combating insurance crime found 334,114 auto thefts in the U.S. for the first six months of the year, down 23% from the same period in 2024.

That continues a downward trend as theft totals fall back toward pre-COVID levels following a pandemic-fueled surge that peaked in 2023, NICB said. The bureau also noted the total for each month so far in 2025 has been lower than any month last year.

“The significant declines we are seeing in 2025 demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative efforts by law enforcement, automakers, insurers and the National Insurance Crime Bureau,” NICB president and CEO David J. Glawe said. “While vehicle theft continues to impact communities across the country, NICB will continue fostering strong partnerships and the use of advanced data analytics to make meaningful progress in protecting consumers, holding criminals accountable and bringing peace of mind to American communities.”

NICB found 49 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico reported fewer thefts in the first half of 2025 year-over-year, with only Alaska reporting an increase — up 26%, primarily from the Anchorage metropolitan area.

Puerto Rico had the largest percentage decrease, a 43% drop, just ahead of Washington’s 42%. North Dakota (32%), Louisiana (32%), Colorado (32%) and Florida (30%) all recorded decreases of 30% or more.

The study showed Washington D.C. had the highest per capita vehicle theft rate with 373.09 per 100,000 residents, almost four times the national average of 97.33 — which is down from 126.62 in the first half of 2024.

D.C.’s rate is well above the next highest, California’s 178.01, followed by Nevada (167.68), New Mexico (167.54), Colorado (149.04), Missouri {142.17), Maryland (136.48), Texas (123.83), Alaska (117.41) and Washington (115.20).

Not surprisingly, the list of America’s most frequently stolen vehicles was topped by Hyundais, with the Elantra (11,329 reported thefts) and Sonata (9,154) taking the first two spots. Four Hyundai/Kia vehicles are among the 10 most stolen, along with three Hondas and two of the nation’s most popular pickup trucks — the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (8,006) and Ford’s F-150 (4,996).

Most Stolen Vehicles in the First Half of 2025

NICB said it coordinates with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies nationwide to identify, deter and prevent schemes undertaken by complex vehicle theft rings, noting cooperation between law enforcement, legislators, the private sector and nonprofits “play a significant factor in the drop in vehicle thefts each year.”

The bureau offered tips to prevent thefts from occurring.

While in the vehicle:

Park in well-lit areas: Increased visibility deters thieves, so always park in a well-lit parking lot or spot near a streetlight.

Roll up your windows: Limit point of access by making sure windows are rolled up before exiting the vehicle.

When exiting:

Lock the doors: Criminals walk through parking lots testing handles to choose which vehicle they take, so always lock the car before leaving it.

Never leave vehicle running unattended: An empty vehicle with the engine running is practically an invitation to opportunistic criminals. Always turn off the vehicle when exiting.

Take your keys: Even if you’re picking up a quick coffee or running back inside your house for something, it only takes moments for thieves to jump in and drive off with the car.

For additional security, NICB suggested using anti-theft technology, such as steering wheel locks, audible alarms, kill switches or aftermarket GPS tracking like air tags. They can deter thieves from targeting a car, and if they do take it, the devices can make it easier to find.

NICB said anyone with information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle theft can report it by calling toll-free 800-TEL-NICB (800-835-6422) or submitting a form here.