Barnsley Crime Rate

Barnsley's crime profile is defined by a striking disparity: while the area's overall crime rate is 18.1% above the UK average, the most alarming figure is the 104% exceedance of 'Other crime' compared to national levels. This category, which includes a wide range of non-specific property and public order offences, reflects the town's complex social dynamics. With a safety score of 75/100—4 points below the UK average—the data suggests that while Barnsley is not the most dangerous area, it faces unique challenges that require targeted solutions.

Barnsley is a post-industrial town in South Yorkshire, shaped by decades of economic transition. Its urban fabric includes dense residential areas, retail hubs, and pockets of older housing stock, all of which influence crime patterns. The high rate of Other crime (104% above UK average) likely reflects the area's complex social dynamics, including economic pressures that may contribute to opportunistic offences. Meanwhile, elevated burglary rates (69% above UK average) may stem from older properties with weaker security features, combined with a mix of transient and long-term residents. The town's proximity to Sheffield and its role as a commuter hub for nearby cities also mean that some crime types, like vehicle crime, are influenced by broader regional patterns.

The most striking finding in Barnsley's crime profile is the 104% exceedance of Other crime compared to the UK average (4.1 vs 2.0 per 1,000). This category, which includes non-specific property and public order offences, is likely elevated due to the area's post-industrial character and socio-economic challenges. Burglary (5.6 per 1,000, 69% above UK average) is also high, possibly linked to older housing stock and areas with transient populations. Meanwhile, shoplifting (6.5 per 1,000, 14% below UK average) has seen a significant 28.5% annual decline, potentially reflecting improved retail security measures or shifts in consumer behaviour. Property crime overall (35.5 per 1,000) is 11.2% above the UK average, with vehicle crime (6.0 per 1,000, 30% above UK average) and burglary contributing to this trend. The relatively low rate of bicycle theft (0.3 per 1,000, 68% below UK average) may be due to the area's limited cycling infrastructure and lower student population compared to university towns.

Crime in Barnsley has remained stable over the past year, with a -4.7% year-on-year decline. The most significant drop was in shoplifting, which fell by 28.5% YoY to 6.5 per 1,000. This decline may be attributed to improved retail security measures or seasonal factors, given that shoplifting rates often peak during festive periods. Monthly trends show a clear seasonal pattern, with the highest crime rate recorded in May 2025 (10.0 per 1,000/month) and the lowest in February 2026 (7.7 per 1,000/month). This seasonal fluctuation likely reflects increased outdoor activity during warmer months and reduced retail activity in winter. Despite these changes, Barnsley's overall crime rate remains 18.1% above the UK average, underscoring the need for sustained community-focused initiatives.

Compared to nearby areas, Barnsley's crime rate (107.5 per 1,000) is 46% higher than High Peak (73.7 per 1,000), the region's safest local authority. Conversely, it is 13% lower than Wakefield (121.2 per 1,000), which has a more densely populated urban core. The stark contrast with Thurgoland (31.5 per 1,000)—the safest area within Barnsley—highlights the importance of local factors like rural isolation and population density in shaping crime patterns.

For Barnsley residents facing elevated property crime rates—particularly Other crime (104% above UK average) and burglary (69% above UK average)—proactive security solutions are essential, scOS addresses these risks through AI-powered boundary monitoring that detects threats before they reach a property. By continuously analyzing camera feeds, the system can distinguish between regular household activity and potential intruders, triggering automated lighting and audio warnings to deter offenders. This is especially valuable in areas like Barnsley, where the high rate of Other crime suggests a need for non-intrusive, real-time monitoring that reduces the perception of opportunity for offenders.

How To Keep Safe in Barnsley

Residents in Barnsley should prioritize securing properties against burglary, which is 69% above UK average. This includes installing solid door locks and motion-sensor lighting in high-traffic areas like car parks and communal spaces. For Other crime, which is 104% above UK average, consider joining local Neighbourhood Watch schemes to share information about suspicious activity. Given the area's stable crime rate (-4.7% YoY), maintaining consistent security measures is crucial. For those in areas with higher vehicle crime (30% above UK average), avoid leaving valuables in sight of parked cars, especially in parts of the town with older housing stock.