You know the feeling: you’re out of shows to binge, and someone says “try this true crime podcast” — but picking one that’s actually good, respectful, and not just shock value takes more than a scroll. This guide cuts through the noise with the best true crime podcasts for 2025, backed by platform charts, editorial picks, and a focus on ethical storytelling.

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Podcasts listed: 50+ ·
Average episode length: 45 min ·
Top-rated podcast: Serial (4.8/5) ·
Total listens for top 5: Over 500 million ·
Year true crime podcast trend started: 2014

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact number one ranking varies by source and chart methodology
  • Binge-worthiness is subjective and depends on personal taste
  • Ethical storytelling standards are not uniformly defined across shows
3Timeline signal
  • 2014: Serial launches, sparking the true crime podcast boom (Spotify Newsroom)
  • 2025: Spotify editors release curated “Best True Crime of 2025 (So Far)” list (Spotify Newsroom)
4What’s next
Key facts about true crime podcasts
Metric Value
Total true crime podcasts available Over 2,000
Average rating of top 10 4.7 / 5
Year true crime podcast boom began 2014
Most common platform Spotify (43% of listeners)

What is the number one rated true crime podcast?

Determining the single top-rated true crime podcast depends on which chart you check. While Serial is often credited as the breakthrough hit that defined the genre, current chart data shows Crime Junkie frequently occupying the #1 spot on both Apple Podcasts and Spotify. According to USA Today national news outlet, Crime Junkie topped both platforms on June 26, 2026, illustrating its broad cross-platform reach.

How is the number one determined?

Rankings come from different methodologies. Apple Podcasts uses a combination of subscriber numbers, episode downloads, and ratings, while Spotify’s charts are based on streaming data and editorial curation. The SAS Pod podcast industry blog notes that Crime Junkie currently holds the #1 spot on Apple Podcasts’ Top Charts True Crime category, but that ranking can shift weekly.

Current top rated true crime podcast

As of mid-2025, Crime Junkie is the most consistent #1 across major platforms. Hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, the show releases short, tightly edited episodes that appeal to a wide audience. However, Serial remains the highest-rated podcast by critic reviews, with a 4.8/5 average on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

The trade-off

Chart-topping shows like Crime Junkie prioritize accessibility and brevity, but critics argue they sometimes sacrifice depth and victim-centered storytelling. Listeners who value thorough investigation may prefer Serial or In the Dark.

The pattern: The “number one” title is split between a legacy critical darling (Serial) and a modern chart powerhouse (Crime Junkie). Your choice depends on whether you prioritize critical acclaim or current popularity.

What are the top 5 true crime podcasts on Spotify?

Spotify’s editorial team curates a list titled “Best True Crime of