Vehicle thefts in the United States saw the biggest drop in four decades in 2024, according to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
Thefts dropped by 17% from 2023, which was a record high year. In 2024, 850,708 cars were stolen, compared to 1.02 million in 2023.
Washington state saw the biggest drop, with 32% fewer auto thefts. Nebraska (31%), Nevada (30%), Oregon (29%) and Colorado (26%) also saw large reductions.
Washington, D.C., had the highest rate of vehicle theft, with 842 cars stolen for every 100,000 people, but that’s still down 18% compared to 2023.
Experts credit improved anti-theft measures from automakers, especially Hyundai and Kia, for the drop. Hyundai and Kia cars have been among the most stolen vehicles for several years, even fueling social media trends showing how easy it is to take them.
While they were still among the most stolen cars in 2024, their thefts were down by about 37.5% from the year before.
Supply chain disruptions, which started during COVID, are also easing, lowering the prices of car parts and used cars. That makes vehicle theft and stripping less lucrative for many thieves.
The slideshow above highlights the top 10 vehicles most likely to be stolen, according to data from Conboy Law.
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