Countries With The Most Serial Killers

Serial killers, individuals who commit multiple murders over an extended period, are a chilling factor of criminal behavior that has fascinated criminologists and sparked public concern worldwide. Research into the incidences of serial killings globally throws light on some ominous patterns and brings the inherent cultural, social, and legal differences between countries to the fore. 

Interestingly, available data indicates a disproportionate concentration of serial killers in the United States. With a staggering figure of over 3,200, the US tops the list of nations with the most serial killers. While media portrayal and cultural factors play a role, this reality also bespeaks the sophisticated criminal investigation and record-keeping standards prevalent in the country.

Key findings:

• The United States leads the global tally, accounting for almost 67% of the world's recorded serial killers, with a count of 3,204.
• With 117 recorded cases, South Africa holds second place. Interestingly, it is the only African country on the list, highlighting the potential under-reporting of cases in other African nations due to infrastructural constraints.
• Canada, with 106 cases, stands third. Despite its low population compared to many other nations, Canada's heightened rate may be linked to its rigorous record-keeping and investigative procedures.
• Ranging between 57 and 97 reported cases, Asian and European countries like Italy, Japan, Germany, India, Russia, China, and France are also significantly represented on the list.
• The prevalence of serial killers appears relatively low in Latin American and Caribbean countries, with Mexico and Brazil reporting 37 and 27 cases, respectively. This disparity could stem from under-reporting or differences in criminal investigation methods and definitions.

Leading the list with an astonishing total of 3,204 recorded cases is the United States. This figure includes historical data and very well may be connected to the advanced crime detection systems and thorough record-keeping methodologies in use by U.S. law enforcement agencies.

Second on the list is South Africa, with a total of 117 recorded serial killers. As the only African nation on the list, South Africa's data suggests potential under-reporting in other African countries, possibly due to infrastructural or procedural limitations.

Canada, ranking third, has recorded 106 serial killers. Despite its smaller population compared to other nations on the list, Canada's relatively high count may reflect its strict law enforcement and impeccably maintained criminal records.

Italy and Japan rank fourth and fifth with 97 and 96 recorded serial killers respectively. The presence of these European and Asian countries on the list underscores the global nature of this issue and signifies the need for cross-border collaboration in combating such heinous crimes.

Germany ranks sixth with 85, closely followed by Australia, India, Russia, and France with totals ranging from 71 to 81. 

Countries with the most recorded serial killers:

1. United States - 3,204
2. South Africa - 117
3. Canada - 106
4. Italy - 97
5. Japan - 96
6. Germany - 85
7. Australia - 81
8. India - 80
9. Russia - 73
10. France - 71

To sort the data in the table, click on the column headers.

Year: 2023

Source: Radford/FGCU Annual Report on Serial Killer Statistics: 2023

​