A new study has revealed that Montana, Kansas and Louisiana are the deadliest states in America for serial killers per capita, challenging the stereotype that violent crime is primarily an urban issue.
The research, conducted by Summit Defense Criminal Lawyers, analysed documented serial murderers across all 50 states up to July 2025. It calculated rates based on population and measured victim counts to determine where these crimes were most devastating.
Montana ranks first with around eight serial killers per million residents, and its killers are responsible for nearly 49 deaths per million population – the highest victim rate in the nation. Kansas is second with approximately five serial killers per capita, including the infamous BTK Killer, Dennis Rader, who bound, tortured and killed ten victims between 1974 and 1991. Louisiana claims third place with nearly five serial killers per capita and about 28 deaths per million, ranking second nationally in deadly consequences.
Rhode Island ranks fourth with five serial killers per capita, including teenage murderer Craig Price. Maine rounds out the top five with nearly four serial killers per capita and a victim rate of 28, placing it third nationally in lethality despite its reputation for quiet coastal towns.
Missouri holds sixth place, with four serial killers per capita and 19 victims recorded. Oklahoma lands in seventh place with around three serial killers per capita. The study highlights that rural states dominate the rankings, challenging assumptions about urban crime.
