Report Highlights
- Kentucky has the highest domestic violence rates: 45.3% of women and 35.5% of men experience violence; 82% of shelter requests go unmet.
- Indiana is the only state with an “F” grade: 95% of shelter requests are unmet; lacks ERPO (extreme risk protection order) laws and specific firearm restrictions for abusers.
- Alaska has the highest female homicide rate and consistently ranks top for women killed by male intimate partners; 67% of shelter requests go unmet.
- Utah faces the highest shelter shortage: 96% of shelter requests go unmet; lacks ERPO laws.
- Arizona has a severe resource deficit: 42.6% of women affected by domestic violence; 93% of shelter requests go unmet.
- States with high gun ownership rates have higher female homicide rates: Alaska, South Carolina, and Arkansas rank top for women killed by male partners.
- COVID-19 pandemic caused a spike in domestic violence: Rates rose from 3.3 per 1,000 persons in 2021 to 4.9 in 2022.
- New York receives an “A” grade, with one of the lowest domestic violence rates (31.7% of women) and better shelter access (42% of requests unmet).
Top 10 States With the Highest Domestic Violence Rates
According to data from World Population Review, here are the top 10 states with the highest domestic violence rates.[1]
1. Kentucky: 45.3% women, 35.5% men
Table of Contents
2. Nevada: 43.8% women, 32.8% men
3. Alaska: 43.3% women, 30.2% men
4. Arizona: 42.6% women, 33.4% men
5. Indiana: 42.5% women, 27.9% men
6. South Carolina: 42.3% women, 29.2% men
7. Missouri: 41.8% women, 35.2% men
8. Illinois: 41.5% women, 25.9% men
9. Washington: 41.4% women, 31.7% men
10. Arkansas: 40.8% women, 34.8% men
Each State’s Domestic Violence Laws Graded
Alabama | D
Alabama scores low due to weak gun laws and limited domestic violence protections, compounded by high shelter requests.
- Domestic Violence: 37.5% women, 29.5% men
- Shelter Access: 72% unmet
- Gun Laws: Lacks Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO), limited restrictions
Alaska | D
Alaska faces severe challenges, consistently ranking as one of the most dangerous states for women with a high murder rate and extensive shelter shortages, despite stricter domestic violence laws.
- Domestic Violence: 43.3% women, 30.2% men
- Shelter Access: 67% unmet
- Gun Laws: Stricter laws present
Arizona | D
Arizona’s low score reflects a high domestic violence rate with inadequate shelter access and weak gun control measures.
- Domestic Violence: 42.6% women, 33.4% men
- Shelter Access: 93% unmet
- Gun Laws: No ERPO or restrictions
Arkansas | D
Arkansas struggles with high violence rates, limited shelter availability, and ranks poorly in both domestic violence law enforcement and gun restrictions.
- Domestic Violence: 40.8% women, 34.8% men
- Shelter Access: 72% unmet
- Gun Laws: Weak, no ERPO
California | B
California earns a high score for strict domestic violence laws, solid shelter support, and comprehensive gun control measures.
- Domestic Violence: 34.9% women, 31.1% men
- Shelter Access: 68% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strong ERPO and restrictions
Colorado | B
Colorado’s grade reflects strong domestic violence protections, fair access to shelter, and robust gun laws.
- Domestic Violence: 36.8% women, 30.5% men
- Shelter Access: 83% unmet
- Gun Laws: ERPO and restrictions
Connecticut | C
Connecticut stands out with lower-than-average domestic violence rates but struggles with high shelter shortages, despite its strong gun laws and ERPO protections.
- Domestic Violence: 37.7% women, 33.9% men
- Shelter Access: 87% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strong ERPO and restrictions
Delaware | C
Delaware scores in the middle range with decent legal protections and an average rate of unmet shelter needs.
- Domestic Violence: 37.6% women, 32.7% men
- Shelter Access: 44% unmet
- Gun Laws: ERPO in place
District of Columbia | C
Despite strong gun laws and legal protections for domestic violence, D.C. faces one of the highest murder rates for women, along with significant shelter shortages.
- Domestic Violence: Not provided for women, 24.4% men
- Shelter Access: 88% unmet
- Gun Laws: Comprehensive ERPO and restrictions
Florida | C
Florida’s moderate grade reflects relatively good firearm restrictions for abusers but significant shelter access challenges.
- Domestic Violence: 37.9% women, 29.3% men
- Shelter Access: 71% unmet
- Gun Laws: ERPO laws in place, lacking boyfriend loophole closure
Georgia | D
Georgia’s low score is driven by high domestic violence rates, limited shelter availability, and minimal gun restrictions for abusers.
- Domestic Violence: 37.4% women, 30.4% men
- Shelter Access: 67% unmet
- Gun Laws: No ERPO, limited restrictions
Hawaii | B
Hawaii earns a higher score due to solid legal protections, low unmet shelter needs, and strict firearm restrictions.
- Domestic Violence: 34.7% women, 24.1% men
- Shelter Access: 17% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strong ERPO and abuser restrictions
Idaho | C
Idaho’s moderate score reflects fair domestic violence support but challenges with high rates of unmet shelter requests.
- Domestic Violence: 33.0% women, 38.2% men
- Shelter Access: 50% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal ERPO, limited restrictions
Illinois | C
Illinois performs moderately, with strong gun laws and domestic violence protections but a high rate of unmet shelter needs.
- Domestic Violence: 41.5% women, 25.9% men
- Shelter Access: 41% unmet
- Gun Laws: Robust ERPO and restrictions
Indiana | F
Indiana is the only state with an “F” rating, driven by high domestic violence rates, limited legal protections, and severe shelter shortages, marking it one of the most challenging states for survivors.
- Domestic Violence: 42.5% women, 27.9% men
- Shelter Access: 95% unmet
- Gun Laws: No ERPO, no specific abuser restrictions
Iowa | C
Iowa earns a moderate grade due to a fair domestic violence rate and some legal protections, though it still struggles with high rates of unmet shelter needs.
- Domestic Violence: 35.3% women, 29.3% men
- Shelter Access: 87% unmet
- Gun Laws: Limited restrictions, no ERPO
Kansas | C
Kansas holds a middle-grade score, with moderate domestic violence rates and shelter availability challenges. Limited gun restrictions impact the effectiveness of its protective measures.
- Domestic Violence: 33.9% women, 31.1% men
- Shelter Access: 49% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal ERPO and abuser restrictions
Kentucky | D
Kentucky holds the highest domestic violence rate in the U.S., with significant shelter shortages and limited firearm restrictions, creating substantial challenges for survivors.
- Domestic Violence: 45.3% women, 35.5% men
- Shelter Access: 82% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal restrictions for abusers
Louisiana | C
Louisiana’s moderate rating stems from a high domestic violence rate, yet it offers a decent amount of shelter support compared to other states.
- Domestic Violence: 35.9% women, 35.2% men
- Shelter Access: 70% unmet
- Gun Laws: Limited ERPO and some firearm restrictions
Maine | C
Maine’s moderate rating is partly due to one of the lowest rates of unmet shelter needs, though its relatively lenient domestic violence laws limit survivor protections.
- Domestic Violence: 39.3% women, 33.6% men
- Shelter Access: 44% unmet
- Gun Laws: Relatively lenient laws with limited protections
Maryland | B
Maryland’s rating benefits from strong gun laws and proactive domestic violence protections, though unmet shelter needs remain.
- Domestic Violence: 34.4% women, 28.8% men
- Shelter Access: 40% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strong ERPO and firearm restrictions
Massachusetts | B
Massachusetts earns a higher rating due to strict domestic violence laws and reasonable access to resources, despite high shelter demand.
- Domestic Violence: 33.9% women, 31.7% men
- Shelter Access: 86% unmet
- Gun Laws: Comprehensive ERPO and firearm restrictions
Michigan | C
Michigan’s grade reflects moderate support levels, with notable gaps in shelter availability and limited gun law provisions.
- Domestic Violence: 36.1% women, 25.8% men
- Shelter Access: 79% unmet
- Gun Laws: Lacks ERPO, minimal abuser restrictions
Minnesota | C
Minnesota’s middle-grade rating reflects persistent domestic violence rates and a severe shelter shortage, despite some firearm restrictions.
- Domestic Violence: 33.9% women, 25.1% men
- Shelter Access: 92% unmet
- Gun Laws: ERPO laws with some restrictions
Mississippi | D
Mississippi’s low rating highlights high domestic violence rates, significant shelter shortages, and limited protections for survivors.
- Domestic Violence: 39.7% women, 31.7% men
- Shelter Access: 83% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal ERPO, few restrictions
Missouri | C
Missouri’s moderate rating stems from high domestic violence rates and limited shelter support, though its domestic violence laws rank among the stricter ones.
- Domestic Violence: 41.8% women, 35.2% men
- Shelter Access: 57% unmet
- Gun Laws: Relatively strict domestic violence laws
Montana | C
Montana’s grade reflects fair domestic violence rates and shelter access, though its domestic violence laws are only moderately strict.
- Domestic Violence: 37.2% women, 34.6% men
- Shelter Access: 45% unmet
- Gun Laws: Lacks ERPO, limited firearm restrictions
Nebraska | B
Nebraska’s higher rating reflects lower domestic violence rates and relatively accessible shelter services, though the state’s domestic violence laws could be stricter.
- Domestic Violence: 33.7% women, 28.0% men
- Shelter Access: 36% unmet
- Gun Laws: Least strict, limited protections
Nevada | C
Nevada’s moderate grade results from high domestic violence rates and significant shelter shortages, despite relatively strong legal protections.
- Domestic Violence: 43.8% women, 32.8% men
- Shelter Access: 87% unmet
- Gun Laws: Enforces stricter domestic violence laws
New Hampshire | B
New Hampshire’s high rating is supported by relatively low domestic violence rates, strict laws, and fair shelter access.
- Domestic Violence: 34.7% women, 35.4% men
- Shelter Access: 76% unmet
- Gun Laws: Among the strictest protections
New Jersey | B
New Jersey earns a strong grade due to low domestic violence rates, robust legal protections, and fair shelter availability.
- Domestic Violence: 35.8% women, 27.4% men
- Shelter Access: 69% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strongest, comprehensive protections
New Mexico | C
New Mexico’s rating reflects high domestic violence rates and substantial shelter shortages, though it enforces relatively strong legal protections.
- Domestic Violence: 37.6% women, 33.3% men
- Shelter Access: 71% unmet
- Gun Laws: Stricter protections, more resources needed
New York | A
New York earns a top rating with one of the lowest murder rates for women, comprehensive legal protections, and substantial shelter access, reflecting strong support for survivors.
- Domestic Violence: 31.7% women, 29.0% men
- Shelter Access: 42% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strictest protections in place
North Carolina | C
North Carolina’s moderate rating reflects steady domestic violence rates and some gaps in shelter access, with laws that could be stricter.
- Domestic Violence: 35.2% women, 30.3% men
- Shelter Access: 62% unmet
- Gun Laws: Mid-range protections
North Dakota | C
North Dakota’s moderate score reflects fair domestic violence rates but high unmet shelter needs and a lack of comprehensive protections.
- Domestic Violence: 29.7% women, 18.5% men
- Shelter Access: 80% unmet
- Gun Laws: Moderate protections
Ohio | D
Ohio’s low grade is due to high domestic violence rates, substantial shelter shortages, and limited gun law protections for survivors.
- Domestic Violence: 38.0% women, 33.0% men
- Shelter Access: 69% unmet
- Gun Laws: Lacks ERPO, limited restrictions
Oklahoma | D
Oklahoma’s grade reflects high domestic violence rates and considerable shelter shortages, with limited legal protections.
- Domestic Violence: 40.1% women, 37.8% men
- Shelter Access: 26% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal protections, lacks ERPO
Oregon | C
Oregon receives a middle-grade score due to moderate domestic violence rates and significant shelter shortages, though it enforces fairly strong protections.
- Domestic Violence: 39.8% women, 36.2% men
- Shelter Access: 88% unmet
- Gun Laws: Stricter protections, ERPO laws in place
Pennsylvania | C
Pennsylvania’s moderate rating reflects fair domestic violence rates and shelter access, though legal protections could be stronger.
- Domestic Violence: 37.1% women, 30.4% men
- Shelter Access: 90% unmet
- Gun Laws: Mid-tier protections, no ERPO
Rhode Island | B
Rhode Island’s higher rating is supported by relatively low domestic violence rates and strict laws, though the state still faces shelter shortages.
- Domestic Violence: 32.6% women, 25.4% men
- Shelter Access: 48% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strictest protections, ERPO in place
South Carolina | D
South Carolina’s low rating reflects high domestic violence rates and limited shelter support, compounded by a lack of strong legal protections.
- Domestic Violence: 42.3% women, 29.2% men
- Shelter Access: 73% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal protections, no ERPO
South Dakota | C
South Dakota’s moderate grade is due to steady domestic violence rates and shelter access challenges, with moderate legal protections in place.
- Domestic Violence: 33.7% women, 30.2% men
- Shelter Access: 87% unmet
- Gun Laws: Limited protections, lacks ERPO
Tennessee | D
Tennessee’s low rating stems from high domestic violence rates, critical shelter shortages, and limited firearm restrictions for abusers.
- Domestic Violence: 39.6% women, 36.8% men
- Shelter Access: 66% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal restrictions, lacks ERPO
Texas | C
Texas’s moderate grade reflects high domestic violence rates and significant shelter shortages, with minimal restrictions on firearm access and a concerning murder rate for women.
- Domestic Violence: 40.1% women, 34.9% men
- Shelter Access: 23% unmet
- Gun Laws: Limited protections, lacks ERPO
Utah | C
Utah’s moderate score reflects its low domestic violence rates but comes with one of the highest shelter shortages in the country, putting survivors in a challenging position.
- Domestic Violence: 33.6% women, 21.4% men
- Shelter Access: 96% unmet
- Gun Laws: Lacks ERPO, minimal protections
Vermont | C
Vermont’s middle rating reflects lower domestic violence rates and fair shelter access, but the state’s domestic violence laws could be strengthened.
- Domestic Violence: 39.2% women, 30.9% men
- Shelter Access: 71% unmet
- Gun Laws: Relatively lenient protections, lacks ERPO
Virginia | B
Virginia’s higher score is due to strong legal protections, lower-than-average domestic violence rates, and improved shelter access for survivors.
- Domestic Violence: 33.6% women, 28.6% men
- Shelter Access: 71% unmet
- Gun Laws: Strict protections, ERPO laws in place
Washington | D
Washington’s low score reflects high domestic violence and murder rates, with a significant shortage of shelter support and limited firearm restrictions.
- Domestic Violence: 41.4% women, 31.7% men
- Shelter Access: 90% unmet
- Gun Laws: Limited protections, lacks ERPO
West Virginia | D
West Virginia’s low grade is due to high domestic violence and murder rates, paired with minimal gun restrictions for abusers and limited shelter availability.
- Domestic Violence: 39.4% women, 36.3% men
- Shelter Access: 73% unmet
- Gun Laws: Minimal restrictions, lacks ERPO
Wisconsin | C
Wisconsin’s moderate grade reflects steady domestic violence rates and some shelter support, though legal protections are mid-tier.
- Domestic Violence: 36.3% women, 32.1% men
- Shelter Access: 74% unmet
- Gun Laws: Moderate protections, some restrictions in place
Wyoming | C
Wyoming’s middle-grade rating reflects fair domestic violence rates and shelter access, but it lacks comprehensive firearm restrictions.
- Domestic Violence: 33.9% women, 30.5% men
- Shelter Access: 61% unmet
- Gun Laws: Limited protections, lacks ERPO
Grading Criteria
Our grading system evaluates each state’s performance across five key metrics related to domestic violence protections, shelter support, and gun laws for abusers based on the most recent reports available.
Each metric highlights a specific area of importance, offering a comprehensive view of how effectively each state supports domestic violence survivors.
Here’s a breakdown of each metric, its source, and our grading approach:
Domestic violence rates
Source: Domestic Violence by State (2024). World Population Review.[2]
Description: This metric ranks states by the percentage of women and men affected by domestic violence.
Grading: States with the highest domestic violence rates received lower grades, while those with lower rates received higher grades, capturing the relative severity of domestic violence issues.
Laws governing domestic violence
Source: Ranking of States’ Domestic Violence Laws (2010). Stop Abusive and Violent Environments[3]
Description: This metric evaluates the strictness of each state’s domestic violence laws, including restraining orders, penalties, and protective measures for survivors.
Grading: States were graded from A to F based on the comprehensiveness of their legal protections. Those with robust, survivor-centered laws received higher scores, while states with minimal legal protections were rated lower.
Gun laws and ERPO protections
Source: ERPO by State (2024). University of Michigan Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative.[4] Prohibition for Domestic Abusers Under Restraining Orders. Everytown for Gun Safety.[5]
Description: This combined metric examines whether a state has implemented Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) and laws prohibiting firearm possession for domestic abusers, especially those under restraining orders.
Grading: States that have both ERPO laws and comprehensive firearm restrictions (including closing the “boyfriend loophole”) received higher grades, while states without these restrictions scored lower.
Shelter accessibility for domestic violence survivors
Source: 2012 Domestic Violence Counts: State Summaries. National Network to End Domestic Violence.[6]
Description: This metric measures the percentage of unmet requests for emergency shelter and transitional housing in each state, indicating the level of support available for survivors.
Grading: States with higher unmet shelter needs received lower grades, as this shortage signals a lack of crucial resources. Those with better shelter availability were rated higher, reflecting stronger support systems for survivors.
Homicide rates “When Men Murder Women”
Source: When Men Murder Women: An Analysis of 2021 Homicide Data. Violence Policy Center. [7]
Description: This metric evaluates each state’s rate of female homicides committed by men, a severe outcome often linked to domestic violence.
Grading: States with the highest rates of female homicides received lower grades, while those with lower homicide rates scored higher. This highlights the lethality risk and severity of domestic violence in each state.
Grading Process and Final Grade Calculation
Each state received a letter grade for each metric, from A (best) to F (worst), with each letter converted into a numeric scale: A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0. Here’s the grading process:
1. Calculate metric scores: Each letter grade was assigned a numeric value (0-4) across all five metrics.
2. Average the scores: We calculated the average score per state.
3. Assign final letter grade: Based on the calculated average, each state received a final grade:
- 3.5–4.0 = A
- 2.5–3.4 = B
- 1.5–2.4 = C
- 0.5–1.4 = D
- 0–0.4 = F
This final grade reflects each state’s overall performance in protecting domestic violence survivors, from law enforcement and shelter support to the prevention of lethal outcomes. By considering all five critical areas, the grading system provides a nuanced view of each state’s strengths and areas for improvement.
How Many People Experience Domestic Violence by State?[8]
Alabama: 1.65 million total (0.94 million women, 0.71 million men)
Alaska: 0.26 million total (0.16 million women, 0.11 million men)
Arizona: 2.7 million total (1.53 million women, 1.17 million men)
Arkansas: 1.1 million total (0.61 million women, 0.49 million men)
California: 13.01 million total (6.98 million women, 6.03 million men)
Colorado: 1.99 million total (1.1 million women, 0.88 million men)
Connecticut: 1.33 million total (0.72 million women, 0.61 million men)
Delaware: 0.34 million total (0.18 million women, 0.15 million men)
District of Columbia: 0.33 million total (0.24 million women, 0.09 million men)
Florida: 6.85 million total (3.98 million women, 2.87 million men)
Georgia: 3.64 million total (2.06 million women, 1.58 million men)
Hawaii: 0.41 million total (0.24 million women, 0.17 million men)
Idaho: 0.64 million total (0.3 million women, 0.34 million men)
Illinois: 4.28 million total (2.7 million women, 1.58 million men)
Indiana: 2.44 million total (1.49 million women, 0.95 million men)
Iowa: 1.03 million total (0.56 million women, 0.47 million men)
Kansas: 0.98 million total (0.51 million women, 0.47 million men)
Kentucky: 1.71 million total (1.0 million women, 0.71 million men)
Louisiana: 1.53 million total (0.79 million women, 0.74 million men)
Maine: 0.48 million total (0.28 million women, 0.2 million men)
Maryland: 1.9 million total (1.07 million women, 0.84 million men)
Massachusetts: 2.33 million total (1.25 million women, 1.08 million men)
Michigan: 3.08 million total (1.84 million women, 1.24 million men)
Minnesota: 1.65 million total (0.95 million women, 0.7 million men)
Mississippi: 1.04 million total (0.6 million women, 0.44 million men)
Missouri: 2.27 million total (1.25 million women, 1.02 million men)
Montana: 0.36 million total (0.19 million women, 0.17 million men)
Nebraska: 0.59 million total (0.32 million women, 0.27 million men)
Nevada: 1.12 million total (0.66 million women, 0.46 million men)
New Hampshire: 0.46 million total (0.23 million women, 0.23 million men)
New Jersey: 3.01 million total (1.75 million women, 1.26 million men)
New Mexico: 0.7 million total (0.38 million women, 0.32 million men)
New York: 6.02 million total (3.23 million women, 2.78 million men)
North Carolina: 3.48 million total (1.9 million women, 1.58 million men)
North Dakota: 0.19 million total (0.12 million women, 0.07 million men)
Ohio: 4.02 million total (2.2 million women, 1.81 million men)
Oklahoma: 1.52 million total (0.8 million women, 0.72 million men)
Oregon: 1.56 million total (0.84 million women, 0.72 million men)
Pennsylvania: 4.16 million total (2.34 million women, 1.82 million men)
Rhode Island: 0.32 million total (0.18 million women, 0.14 million men)
South Carolina: 1.83 million total (1.1 million women, 0.73 million men)
South Dakota: 0.29 million total (0.15 million women, 0.14 million men)
Tennessee: 2.52 million total (1.35 million women, 1.18 million men)
Texas: 9.99 million total (5.41 million women, 4.57 million men)
Utah: 0.88 million total (0.54 million women, 0.34 million men)
Vermont: 0.22 million total (0.13 million women, 0.1 million men)
Virginia: 2.58 million total (1.41 million women, 1.17 million men)
Washington: 2.79 million total (1.61 million women, 1.17 million men)
West Virginia: 0.67 million total (0.35 million women, 0.32 million men)
Wisconsin: 1.99 million total (1.09 million women, 0.9 million men)
Wyoming: 0.18 million total (0.1 million women, 0.09 million men)
How Common Is Domestic Violence by State?[9]
Alabama: Almost 1 in 3 women, and just over 1 in 3 men
Alaska: About 1 in 2 women, and almost 1 in 3 men
Arizona: About 1 in 2 women, and nearly 1 in 3 men
Arkansas: Around 1 in 2 women, and almost 1 in 3 men
California: Roughly 1 in 3 women, and slightly over 1 in 3 men
Colorado: Just about 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 3 men
Connecticut: Roughly 1 in 3 women, and slightly over 1 in 3 men
Delaware: Almost 1 in 3 women, and over 1 in 3 men
District of Columbia: Not provided, and around 1 in 4 men
Florida: About 1 in 3 women, and almost 1 in 3 men
Georgia: Nearly 1 in 3 women, and slightly over 1 in 3 men
Hawaii: Just about 1 in 3 women, and almost 1 in 4 men
Idaho: Nearly 1 in 3 women, and about 1 in 3 men
Illinois: Approximately 1 in 2 women, and 1 in 4 men
Indiana: Around 1 in 2 women, and over 1 in 4 men
Iowa: Just about 1 in 3 women, and nearly 1 in 3 men
Kansas: About 1 in 3 women, and just over 1 in 3 men
Kentucky: Close to 1 in 2 women, and roughly 1 in 3 men
Louisiana: Almost 1 in 3 women, and just over 1 in 3 men
Maine: Around 1 in 3 women, and about 1 in 3 men
Maryland: Just over 1 in 3 women, and nearly 1 in 3 men
Massachusetts: Roughly 1 in 3 women, and about 1 in 3 men
Michigan: Close to 1 in 3 women, and nearly 1 in 4 men
Minnesota: Approximately 1 in 3 women, and over 1 in 4 men
Mississippi: Almost 1 in 3 women, and just about 1 in 3 men
Missouri: Roughly 1 in 2 women, and 1 in 3 men
Montana: About 1 in 3 women, and just over 1 in 3 men
Nebraska: Almost 1 in 3 women, and about 1 in 4 men
Nevada: Nearly 1 in 2 women, and around 1 in 3 men
New Hampshire: Just about 1 in 3 women, and close to 1 in 3 men
New Jersey: Roughly 1 in 3 women, and nearly 1 in 4 men
New Mexico: Just about 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 3 men
New York: Close to 1 in 3 women, and almost 1 in 3 men
North Carolina: Just under 1 in 3 women, and over 1 in 3 men
North Dakota: About 1 in 3 women, and almost 1 in 5 men
Ohio: Roughly 1 in 3 women, and around 1 in 3 men
Oklahoma: Close to 1 in 2 women, and nearly 1 in 3 men
Oregon: Just over 1 in 3 women, and around 1 in 3 men
Pennsylvania: Almost 1 in 3 women, and just about 1 in 3 men
Rhode Island: Around 1 in 3 women, and just over 1 in 4 men
South Carolina: Nearly 1 in 2 women, and about 1 in 3 men
South Dakota: Roughly 1 in 3 women, and about 1 in 3 men
Tennessee: Close to 1 in 3 women, and around 1 in 3 men
Texas: Approximately 1 in 2 women, and about 1 in 3 men
Utah: Nearly 1 in 3 women, and close to 1 in 5 men
Vermont: Almost 1 in 3 women, and roughly 1 in 3 men
Virginia: Just about 1 in 3 women, and around 1 in 3 men
Washington: Roughly 1 in 2 women, and about 1 in 3 men
West Virginia: About 1 in 3 women, and just about 1 in 3 men
Wisconsin: Nearly 1 in 3 women, and just over 1 in 3 men
Wyoming: About 1 in 3 women, and just about 1 in 3 men
What States Have the Highest Domestic Violence Rates?[10]
Here are the top 10 states with the highest domestic violence rates:
1. Kentucky: 40.6%
2. Oklahoma: 39.0%
3. Missouri: 38.6%
4. Tennessee: 38.2%
5. Arizona: 38.1%
6. Oregon: 38.0%
7. Arkansas: 37.9%
8. West Virginia: 37.4%
9. Alaska: 36.8%
10. Washington: 36.7%
What Percentage of Domestic Violence Victims Are Female by State?[11]
Alabama: 37.5%
Alaska: 43.3%
Arizona: 42.6%
Arkansas: 40.8%
California: 34.9%
Colorado: 36.8%
Connecticut: 37.7%
Delaware: 37.6%
District of Columbia: Not provided
Florida: 37.9%
Georgia: 37.4%
Hawaii: 34.7%
Idaho: 33.0%
Illinois: 41.5%
Indiana: 42.5%
Iowa: 35.3%
Kansas: 33.9%
Kentucky: 45.3%
Louisiana: 35.9%
Maine: 39.3%
Maryland: 34.4%
Massachusetts: 33.9%
Michigan: 36.1%
Minnesota: 33.9%
Mississippi: 39.7%
Missouri: 41.8%
Montana: 37.2%
Nebraska: 33.7%
Nevada: 43.8%
New Hampshire: 34.7%
New Jersey: 35.8%
New Mexico: 37.6%
New York: 31.7%
North Carolina: 35.2%
North Dakota: 29.7%
Ohio: 38.0%
Oklahoma: 40.1%
Oregon: 39.8%
Pennsylvania: 37.1%
Rhode Island: 32.6%
South Carolina: 42.3%
South Dakota: 33.7%
Tennessee: 39.6%
Texas: 40.1%
Utah: 33.6%
Vermont: 39.2%
Virginia: 33.6%
Washington: 41.4%
West Virginia: 39.4%
Wisconsin: 36.3%
Wyoming: 33.9%
Which State Has the Highest Rates of Women Killed by Intimate Partners?
The Violence Policy Center’s 2023 report reveals that Alaska consistently ranks at the top for the rate of women killed by male intimate partners, a trend supported by high gun ownership rates in the state.
Between 1996 and 2020, Alaska frequently appeared in the top 10 for female homicide rates, underscoring a serious public health concern linked to firearms.
This pattern is echoed in states like South Carolina and Arkansas, where similar firearm prevalence and domestic violence rates place women at increased risk.[12]
Domestic Violence Rates Over Time
From 2003 to 2023, general domestic violence rates in the U.S. showed an overall decline with periods of fluctuation. Rates decreased steadily through the early 2000s, leveled out around 2010, and remained relatively stable.
However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, rates briefly spiked due to increased stressors and limited support access. By 2023, rates began returning to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a potential resumption of the long-term downward trend.
Here is the data on domestic violence, including intimate partner violence, rates per 1,000 people from 2003 to 2023:[13][14][15]
2003: 6.1
2004: 5.8
2005: 5.5
2006: 5.2
2007: 4.9
2008: 4.7
2009: 4.5
2010: 4.4
2011: 5.3
2012: 4.8
2013: 4.2
2014: 4.2
2015: 4.1
2016: 3.9
2017: 4.5
2018: 4.8
2019: 4.2
2020: 3.1
2021: 3.3
2022: 4.9
2023: 4.1
What State Has the Lowest Domestic Violence Rate?
North Dakota has the lowest domestic violence rate in recent national rankings, estimated at 29.7%. This statistic reflects general domestic violence across intimate and family relationships. Other states with relatively lower rates include New York at 31.7% and Rhode Island at 32.6%.[16]
Resources
- Domestic Violence Support | The National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Healthy Relationships for Young Adults | love is respect
- National Resource Center on Domestic Violence
- The Nation’s Leading Grassroots Voice on Domestic Violence
- National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health
- U.S. Teen Dating Violence Statistics 2024
- Domestic Violence Statistics 2024
Conclusion
Domestic violence remains a critical issue across the United States. Expanding resources for domestic violence prevention and support is essential. More state funding, additional shelters, stricter gun control measures, and comprehensive domestic violence laws can significantly aid survivors and reduce rates of abuse. Addressing these needs will help foster safer communities and provide critical support to those affected by domestic violence.
Sources
1. World Population Review. (2024). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
2. World Population Review. (2024). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
3. Stop Abusive and Violent Environments. (2010). Ranking of states’ domestic violence laws. Rockville, MD.
https://silo.tips/download/ranking-of-states-domestic-violence-laws
4. University of Michigan. (n.d.). ERPO by state. Firearm Injury & Policy Research Program.
https://firearminjury.umich.edu/erpo-by-state/
5. Everytown Research & Policy. (n.d.). Prohibition for domestic abusers under restraining orders.
https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/law/prohibition-for-domestic-abusers-under-restraining-orders/
6. National Network to End Domestic Violence. (2012). 2012 domestic violence counts: State summaries.
https://nnedv.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Library_Census_2012_State_Summaries_All.pdf
7. Violence Policy Center. (2023). When men murder women: An analysis of 2021 homicide data.
https://www.vpc.org/studies/wmmw2023.pdf
8. World Population Review. (n.d.). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
9. World Population Review. (n.d.). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
10. World Population Review. (n.d.). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
11. World Population Review. (n.d.). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
12. Violence Policy Center. (2023). When men murder women: An analysis of 2021 homicide data.
https://www.vpc.org/studies/wmmw2023.pdf
13. Truman, J. L., & Morgan, R. E. (2014, April). Nonfatal domestic violence, 2003–2012 (NCJ 244697). U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics.
https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/ndv0312.pdf
14. Morgan, R. E., & Oudekerk, B. A. (2019, September). Criminal victimization, 2018 (NCJ 253043). U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics.
https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/cv18.pdf
15. Tapp, S. N., & Coen, E. J. (2024, September). Criminal victimization, 2023 (NCJ 309335). U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics.
https://bjs.ojp.gov/document/cv23.pdf
16. World Population Review. (n.d.). Domestic violence by state.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/domestic-violence-by-state
