True crime has fascinated people for years, but podcasting has taken it to a whole new level.
One podcast that’s often credited with starting the true crime podcast trend is “Serial”, which debuted in 2014. Its unique format and investigative storytelling drew millions of listeners and helped make podcasts a mainstream medium.
So, why are we so drawn to true crime?
It might be because these stories tap into our curiosity about human behavior – the motives behind crimes and the search for justice.
Whatever your reason for being here, read on to discover the top-rated true crime podcasts of 2026, and find your next binge-worthy listen!
🔍 Looking to start your own True Crime podcast? Learn how to get started here.
1. Serial
Years Active: 2014 – Present
Best For: Listeners who love investigative journalism and season-long deep-dives
Serial is where it all started for many true crime podcast fans. Hosted by Sarah Koenig, this show pioneered the format of dedicating an entire season to investigating a single case.
The first season examined the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee and the conviction of Adnan Syed. It became a cultural phenomenon, breaking podcast download records and sparking countless discussions about the criminal justice system.
Serial continues to investigate compelling cases with the same thorough, narrative-driven approach that made it famous. Each season offers a new mystery to unpack.
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2. Crime Junkie
Years Active: 2017 – Present
Best For: Fans of well-researched cases and conversational storytelling
Crime Junkie has remained at the top of the charts since its launch. Host Ashley Flowers and her best friend Brit Prawat dissect infamous and underreported true crime cases every Monday.
What makes Crime Junkie special? The combination of thorough research and genuine friendship between the hosts. Ashley leads the storytelling while Brit asks the questions listeners are thinking.
From cold cases to missing persons, Crime Junkie has built a dedicated community of over a million listeners. They’ve even helped generate new leads in several cases.
3. My Favorite Murder
Years Active: 2016 – Present
Best For: People who like true crime mixed with comedy and personal stories
My Favorite Murder took the true crime world by storm with a simple premise: comedians Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark tell each other their favorite murder stories.
The show spawned a massive fanbase called “Murderinos” who gather at live shows and share their own hometown murder stories. This community aspect sets MFM apart from traditional true crime podcasts.
While the tone is lighter than some shows, the research is solid and the respect for victims is always present. Karen and Georgia balance humor with sensitivity in a way that’s become the gold standard for conversational true crime.
4. Dateline NBC
Years Active: 2017 – Present (podcast format)
Best For: Fans of classic television-style investigative reporting
Dateline NBC brings decades of television investigative journalism to podcast form. The show has been solving mysteries and examining crimes since 1992 on TV.
The podcast offers both current and classic episodes, giving listeners access to a vast archive of cases. With reporters like Keith Morrison, Josh Mankiewicz, and Andrea Canning, you get professional storytelling backed by NBC’s resources.
Dateline has made real differences in countless lives, helping exonerate the wrongly convicted and solving cold cases. The combination of experience and reach makes it a true crime staple.
5. Casefile True Crime
Years Active: 2016 – Present
Best For: Listeners who prefer straightforward, narrator-focused storytelling
Casefile stands out with its anonymous host and international case selection. The Australian-based show covers crimes from around the world with meticulous research and respect.
Unlike conversational podcasts, Casefile uses a single narrator who presents cases with minimal commentary. This approach lets the facts speak for themselves and creates a more immersive listening experience.
The show’s production quality and consistent release schedule have made it a favorite among true crime purists. New episodes drop every Saturday.
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6. Morbid
Years Active: 2018 – Present
Best For: People who want true crime with personality and humor
Hosted by an autopsy technician and a hairstylist, Morbid delivers a unique blend of true crime, creepy history, and all things spooky.
What sets Morbid apart? The hosts’ lighthearted approach to dark subjects. Alaina and Ash combine thorough research with humor, creating what they call a “lighthearted nightmare” for their dedicated “weirdos.”
The show has grown rapidly since its launch, consistently ranking in the top true crime podcasts. Their chemistry and genuine enthusiasm make even the darkest cases engaging.
7. Criminal
Years Active: 2014 – Present
Best For: Listeners who appreciate stories that go beyond typical murder cases
Criminal takes a different approach to true crime. Hosted by Phoebe Judge, the show explores “stories of people who’ve done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle.”
This broader definition of crime means Criminal covers everything from art heists to wrongful convictions. The stories are often surprising and always thoughtfully told.
Criminal has won multiple awards for its storytelling and production quality. Judge’s distinctive voice and measured delivery have made the show instantly recognizable.
8. True Crime Garage
Years Active: 2015 – Present
Best For: Fans of detailed analysis and multiple episodes per case
True Crime Garage features hosts Nic and The Captain discussing true crime cases from their garage. The show often dedicates multiple episodes to complex cases, allowing for in-depth discussion.
What makes TCG unique? The chemistry between the hosts and their willingness to explore different theories. They present facts, discuss possibilities, and let listeners draw their own conclusions.
The show releases two episodes per week and has built a loyal following. Their comprehensive approach appeals to listeners who want to really understand every angle of a case.
9. Sword and Scale
Years Active: 2013 – Present
Best For: Listeners who want unfiltered, source-audio heavy episodes
Sword and Scale is one of the longest-running true crime podcasts. The show is known for its extensive use of 911 calls, interrogation footage, and court recordings.
This approach creates an immersive experience but can be intense. The show doesn’t shy away from disturbing details and often explores the psychology behind crimes.
Despite controversy over the years, Sword and Scale maintains a large audience that appreciates its unvarnished approach to true crime storytelling.
10. 48 Hours
Years Active: 2017 – Present (podcast format)
Best For: Listeners who want award-winning investigative journalism
48 Hours brings CBS News’ investigative reporting to podcast form. The show has been examining crimes and mysteries since 1988 on television.
What makes 48 Hours special? The combination of thorough reporting and real-world impact. The show has helped exonerate wrongly convicted people and solve cold cases that had gone years without answers.
Each episode places listeners at the heart of the investigation through key evidence, interviews with those involved, and thoughtful analysis. The reporting goes beyond surface-level storytelling to examine how these crimes have affected society.
With decades of experience and CBS’s resources behind it, 48 Hours consistently delivers professional true crime journalism that makes a difference.
What Makes These Podcasts Stand Out
The shows on this list have something in common: staying power.
While hundreds of new true crime podcasts launch every month, these shows have maintained top chart positions for years. Some have been going strong since 2015 or earlier.
Here’s what sets them apart:
- Consistent Release Schedules: Weekly or bi-weekly episodes for years
- High Listener Engagement: Millions of downloads and active fan communities
- Quality Research: Thorough investigation and fact-checking
- Unique Storytelling: Each brings something different to the genre
- Cross-Platform Success: Top rankings on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and beyond
Looking for More True Crime Podcasts?
Check out these shows hosted right here on RSS.com.
Double Trouble: A True Crime Podcast
A twinning true crime podcast featuring your favorite Geminis, Chloe and Tess!
Missing Molly
This true crime podcast is about a Charlottesville woman named Molly Miller. She was reported missing in Dec 2017.
Highly Unlikely with Jonathan Flannes
In this podcast, the host interviews people with what he calls “the most shocking stories you’ve never heard.”
Ready to Start Your Own True Crime Podcast?
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Tips for Starting Your True Crime Podcast
- Research Thoroughly: Accuracy is crucial in true crime. Double-check all facts and timelines.
- Be Respectful: Remember that real people have been affected by these crimes. Approach cases with sensitivity.
- Find Your Niche: Focus on cold cases, historical crimes, or local mysteries to stand out in a crowded genre.
- Practice Ethical Storytelling: Consider the impact of your words on victims, their families, and communities.
- Create Engaging Episode Formats: Mix narrative storytelling with interviews and expert analysis.
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