London Crime Rates

London – big, bold and buzzing! It’s the UK’s largest city, drawing in millions of visitors each year to take in its famous sights. From historic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, to the lively West End and retail heaven on Oxford Street, there’s always something to see. A broad mix of boroughs, each with its own character, there’s the artsy streets of Soho or the sleek skyscrapers of Canary Wharf London’s charm lies in its contrasts. But behind the glamour and hustle, some parts of the city face challenges with crime. In this article, we’re diving into London’s crime stats, looking at which areas are most affected and what it all means for residents and visitors.

Overall Crime in London

As of September 2024, London’s overall crime rate stands at 133.1 offences per 1,000 people, with violence and sexual offences being the most commonly reported incidents at 22.5% of all crimes in the area (Plumplot). These figures place London among the more heavily policed and monitored urban areas in the UK, yet recent years have shown a clear rise in crime that has kept the capital in the media spotlight.

Between 2015/16 and 2023/24, recorded crime in London increased dramatically, with a significant surge in violent offences. Police figures reveal a total of 938,020 reported crimes in 2023/24, up from 743,728 in 2015/16. Much of this increase is attributed to violent crime, with 252,545 violent incidents reported in 2023/24 alone. Knife crime which has been a longstanding concern for Londoners, has also seen a troubling uptick, reaching a post-pandemic high of 15,016 offences in 2023/24, though slightly below the 2019/20 peak of 15,928 offences (Statista). This trend highlights the city’s ongoing challenges in tackling serious crime and safeguarding its communities.

Types of Crime in London

Understanding the most common types of crime in London provides valuable insight into the city’s safety challenges. Looking at data obtained by Plumplot Between October 2023 and September 2024, several categories stood out as the most prevalent:

Violent Crime: With 259,000 reported incidents, violent crime remains the most significant issue in London, contributing a substantial portion of the city’s overall crime figures. This category has been a focal point for law enforcement, reflecting the need for ongoing safety measures in various boroughs.

Antisocial Behaviour: Close behind violent crime, antisocial behaviour incidents totalled 232,000, showcasing the scale of these offences across London’s neighbourhoods. These crimes, often related to public disturbances and nuisance behaviour, can greatly affect quality of life for residents.

Vehicle Crime: London’s vehicle crime rates remain high, with 100,000 reported incidents. This category includes vehicle theft and break-ins, often concentrated in areas with dense traffic and limited parking security.

Theft from the Person: London’s busy public spaces and transport hubs see frequent incidents of personal theft, with 95,700 recorded cases. Pickpocketing and muggings are especially common in areas with high footfall, contributing to residents’ concerns about safety in public areas.

Shoplifting: Shoplifting accounted for 76,100 incidents, making it a significant concern for retailers across the capital. This trend has seen an upward tick in recent years, affecting businesses in both large shopping areas and smaller local districts.

Criminal Damage and Arson: Although lower in number, criminal damage and arson still represent a considerable portion of London’s crime, with 57,600 recorded offences. These incidents often cause substantial financial and emotional impact, particularly in areas with high property crime rates.

Each of these crime types contributes to the overall complexity of London’s crime landscape, highlighting the importance of varied and targeted safety strategies across the city’s communities.

London Areas with the Highest Crime Rates

In a city as vast and diverse as London, crime rates vary significantly across its boroughs. Based on Crime Risk Scores taken from Crimerate.co.uk, which weigh both the number and severity of crimes, certain areas face greater challenges in maintaining safety. Here’s a look at some of the boroughs with the highest crime rates, as well as those with the lowest.

Highest Crime Boroughs of London

Hackney – Trendy with bustling markets and a vibrant arts scene, Hackney also ranks as the most dangerous borough in London. With a crime rate of 140.13 per 1,000 people and a high Crime Rate Index of 3.67, Hackney faces a notable mix of challenges, from antisocial behaviour to violent crime, which impact both residents and visitors alike.

Westminster – Westminster’s reputation as a hub of British heritage and politics comes with a complex security landscape. Home to some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, it’s also a prime target for crime. With a crime rate of 132.94 per 1,000 people and a Crime Rate Index of 3.48, Westminster experiences high levels of theft, particularly in areas with heavy tourist traffic.

Camden– Known for its lively markets, music venues and eclectic character, Camden ranks as one of London’s higher-risk areas with a crime rate of 108.07 per 1,000 people and a Crime Rate Index of 2.83. Theft and drug-related offences are common in this borough, reflecting its mix of bustling nightlife and crowded public spaces.

Tower Hamlets – Tower Hamlets, a borough with deep historical roots and modern skyscrapers, has a crime rate of 98.60 per 1,000 people and a Crime Rate Index of 2.58. Despite its draw as a business and residential district, the area contends with challenges like violent crime and antisocial behaviour, impacting both residents and the workforce.

Safest Boroughs in London

In contrast, some areas in London are recognised as being notably safer. Based on Crime Risk Scores, these boroughs experience significantly lower crime rates.

Richmond upon Thames – This leafy, affluent area holds the title of London’s safest borough, with a crime rate of 71.78 per 1,000 people and a Crime Rate Index of 1.88. Known for its parks, picturesque riverside, and family-friendly atmosphere, Richmond experiences relatively low crime levels, contributing to its appeal for residents seeking a quieter life.

Kingston upon Thames – With its vibrant town centre and a reputation for excellent schools, Kingston has a crime rate of 75.43 per 1,000 people and a Crime Rate Index of 1.98. The area remains among London’s safest, attracting families and professionals alike.

Harrow – Harrow, with a crime rate of 79.15 per 1,000 people and a Crime Rate Index of 2.07, is the third-safest borough. Known for its suburban feel and top-performing schools, it maintains lower crime rates, making it a desirable area for those seeking a safer environment.

These contrasts highlight the diversity of London’s boroughs, where crime risk levels vary widely. While some areas struggle with higher crime rates, others provide safer living environments, catering to the diverse needs and lifestyles of London’s residents.

How London Compares Globally

On a global scale, London’s crime risk is relatively moderate. According to Numbeo’s World Crime Index, London ranks 87th globally, with a Crime Index of 54.6 and a Safety Index of 45.4. While higher than some European cities, it remains far below the world’s most dangerous locations. For example, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, holds the top spot with a Crime Index of 82.5. On the other end of the scale, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates is considered the world’s safest city, with a Crime Index of 11.8.

Triton’s Conclusion:

In conclusion, London’s crime landscape reflects the city’s unique and varied character, with some boroughs facing higher risks than others. While areas like Hackney, Westminster and Camden contend with high crime rates, others such as Richmond upon Thames and Harrow remain among the safest in the capital. Despite recent increases in violent crime and persistent issues like theft and antisocial behaviour, London’s global Crime Index ranking remains moderate. This balance highlights the ongoing need for targeted safety strategies to support the city’s residents and visitors, helping ensure that London remains a vibrant and secure place to live, work and explore.

Protect your London business against crime, contact us today for a customised security solution and a free, no-obligation quote.