{"id":5653,"date":"2026-04-13T22:37:11","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T22:37:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rss.com\/blog\/?p=5653"},"modified":"2026-04-13T22:40:05","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T22:40:05","slug":"best-true-crime-podcasts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rss.com\/blog\/best-true-crime-podcasts\/","title":{"rendered":"Best True Crime Podcasts of 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

True crime has fascinated people for years, but podcasting has taken it to a whole new level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One podcast that\u2019s often credited with starting the true crime podcast trend is “Serial”<\/strong>, which debuted in 2014. Its unique format and investigative storytelling drew millions of listeners and helped make podcasts a mainstream medium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, why are we so drawn to true crime? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It might be because these stories tap into our curiosity about human behavior – the motives behind crimes and the search for justice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whatever your reason for being here, read on to discover the top-rated true crime podcasts of 2026<\/strong>, and find your next binge-worthy listen!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd0d Looking to start your own True Crime podcast? Learn how to get started here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>1. Serial<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2014 – Present
Best For:<\/strong> Listeners who love investigative journalism and season-long deep-dives<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Serial<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udd0d Start your own true crime podcast<\/strong> with RSS.com<\/strong>. Share your investigations, theories, and stories with the world. Use coupon code RSSFREEMONTH<\/strong> at checkout for a full free month! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Launch Your True Crime Podcast Free<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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<\/span>2. Crime Junkie<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2017 – Present
Best For: <\/strong>Fans of well-researched cases and conversational storytelling<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Crime Junkie<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>3. My Favorite Murder<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2016 – Present
Best For: <\/strong>People who like true crime mixed with comedy and personal stories<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

My Favorite Murder<\/a> took the true crime world by storm with a simple premise: comedians Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark tell each other their favorite murder stories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>4. Dateline NBC<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2017 – Present (podcast format)

Best For:<\/strong> Fans of classic television-style investigative reporting<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Dateline NBC<\/a> brings decades of television investigative journalism to podcast form. The show has been solving mysteries and examining crimes since 1992 on TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>5. Casefile True Crime<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2016 – Present<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best For: <\/strong>Listeners who prefer straightforward, narrator-focused storytelling<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Casefile<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The show’s production quality and consistent release schedule have made it a favorite among true crime purists. New episodes drop every Saturday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\ud83d\udd0d Wondering what the top true crime podcasts<\/strong> are in your state? We did the research – check it out here!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>6. Morbid<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2018 – Present
Best For: <\/strong>People who want true crime with personality and humor<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Hosted by an autopsy technician and a hairstylist, Morbid delivers a unique blend of true crime, creepy history, and all things spooky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>7. Criminal<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2014 – Present

Best For: <\/strong>Listeners who appreciate stories that go beyond typical murder cases<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Criminal<\/a> 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.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This broader definition of crime means Criminal covers everything from art heists to wrongful convictions. The stories are often surprising and always thoughtfully told.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Criminal has won multiple awards for its storytelling and production quality. Judge’s distinctive voice and measured delivery have made the show instantly recognizable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>8. True Crime Garage<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2015 – Present
Best For: <\/strong>Fans of detailed analysis and multiple episodes per case<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

True Crime Garage<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>9. Sword and Scale<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active:<\/strong> 2013 – Present
Best For:<\/strong> Listeners who want unfiltered, source-audio heavy episodes<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Sword and Scale<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite controversy over the years, Sword and Scale maintains a large audience that appreciates its unvarnished approach to true crime storytelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>10. 48 Hours<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Years Active: <\/strong>2017 – Present (podcast format)
Best For:<\/strong> Listeners who want award-winning investigative journalism<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Listen on Apple Podcasts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

48 Hours<\/a> brings CBS News’ investigative reporting to podcast form. The show has been examining crimes and mysteries since 1988 on television.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With decades of experience and CBS’s resources behind it, 48 Hours consistently delivers professional true crime journalism that makes a difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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<\/span>What Makes These Podcasts Stand Out<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The shows on this list have something in common: staying power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s what sets them apart:<\/p>\n\n\n\n