Basildon Crime Rate

Basildon presents a stable crime profile with an overall crime rate of 97.4 per 1,000 people, which is slightly above the UK average of 91.7. Despite this, the area maintains a respectable safety score of 76/100, suggesting that many offences are concentrated in specific commercial and industrial zones rather than being pervasive across all residential neighbourhoods. The recent trend data indicates a stable environment, with a modest 1.6% decrease in total crimes over the last year. This suggests that while crime remains a factor for residents to consider, the situation is not escalating. The borough's mix of modern urban centres and established residential areas provides a varied safety landscape. The following data provides a detailed look into the specific types of crime and seasonal patterns affecting the local authority.

About Basildon

Basildon is a major local authority area in Essex, established as a new town in 1949 to accommodate London's expanding population. The district is a significant economic hub for the region, featuring one of the largest concentrations of industrial and commercial activity in the South East. The town centre, including the Eastgate Shopping Centre, along with numerous retail parks and industrial estates, drives high footfall and commercial activity, which can influence crime statistics like shoplifting and vehicle-related offences.

The area is primarily urban but includes several distinct residential neighbourhoods and the smaller town of Billericay. Basildon's excellent transport links, including direct rail services to London and proximity to major motorways, contribute to a transient population and high vehicle ownership. These factors can impact public order and vehicle crime figures. While the borough's growth and economic success attract significant investment, they also present urban challenges that affect its crime rate and safety score. Overall, Basildon's profile reflects its status as a busy, modern industrial town that balances commercial vitality with the security needs of its large residential population.

Crime Breakdown for Basildon

In Basildon, violence and sexual offences represent the largest portion of reported crime, accounting for 38.9% of all incidents, or 37.9 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common at 11.1%, while criminal damage and arson is the third most frequent at 8.7%. These figures highlight that personal safety and public order are the primary concerns for the local authority area.

Property crime in Basildon—including burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and criminal damage—occurs at a rate of 35.1 per 1,000 people. This is slightly above the UK average of 32.3, suggesting that residents and homeowners should be aware of property-related risks. Vehicle crime is a notable factor, representing 8.1% of total crime, while shoplifting accounts for 7.9%. Burglary alone accounts for 628 incidents annually, indicating that homes remain targets. The prevalence of criminal damage and other theft (6.2%) further underscores the importance of robust property security and community vigilance to protect homes and businesses in this busy industrial district.

Crime Trends in Basildon

The crime trend in Basildon is currently stable, with a minor year-over-year decrease of 1.6%. This suggests that the local authority is successfully maintaining its safety profile despite broader national fluctuations and the area's ongoing economic activity.

Analysis of the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 reveals a relatively consistent crime rate, generally fluctuating between 6.7 and 9.2 per 1,000 residents. The lowest point of activity was recorded in February 2025 (6.7), while the middle of the year saw a noticeable uptick, peaking at 9.2 in July. This seasonal pattern, where crime often increases during the summer months, is common in many urban areas. The consistency of these figures throughout the year indicates that there are no sudden surges in criminal activity, allowing residents to plan their security needs with a degree of certainty based on these established monthly patterns. The year ended with a rate of 7.8 in November, showing a return to more moderate levels.

Basildon is situated in a relatively active part of Essex. When compared to similar nearby areas like Castle Point, Thurrock, Brentwood, and Rochford, it holds a unique position as a major industrial and commercial hub. While some surrounding areas like Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea also report lower crime figures in this period, Basildon's rate of 97.4 reflects its role as a primary regional centre. This regional context highlights the borough as a secure choice for those looking to live in a modern, growing area, balancing urban amenities with a generally safe and stable environment. Overall, Basildon's crime profile is typical for a major Essex town of its size and economic importance.

Homeowners in Basildon face a property crime rate that is slightly higher than the national average, making effective security a key consideration. Traditional security measures, such as basic alarms or DIY cameras, are often reactive. They notify you after a window has been smashed or a car has been broken into, providing footage of the event but failing to prevent the loss.

For those seeking a higher level of protection, the scOS artificial intelligence system offers a proactive solution. Rather than just recording, scOS uses AI to monitor your property's boundaries in real-time. It learns to recognise your family and routines, ensuring that you are only alerted to genuine threats. If an unidentified individual enters your property boundary, the system can autonomously activate deterrents like lighting or speakers. This immediate response often convinces potential burglars or car thieves to move on before they even attempt a crime. In a borough where vehicle crime is a notable factor, scOS provides the professional-grade security needed to maintain peace of mind. Investing in AI-driven protection signals that your home is a hard target, encouraging opportunistic criminals to move elsewhere.

How To Keep Safe in Basildon

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in the region, particularly in busier urban areas. To stay safe, it is recommended to stay alert when walking in the evenings, particularly near transport hubs or areas with high nightlife activity. Always use well-lit pedestrian routes and avoid poorly lit parks or alleyways. When using public transport late at night, wait in well-lit areas and try to travel with others if possible.

Vehicle crime is also a notable factor, so car owners should take extra care to secure their vehicles. Always ensure that your car is locked and that no valuables are left on display, even for short periods. If possible, park in a well-lit driveway or a secure garage. Anti-social behaviour and criminal damage are also present, so being mindful of your surroundings in public spaces is advised. If you witness persistent issues, reporting them to the local council or police helps ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed. Finally, always keep your personal belongings secure and out of sight when in busy retail parks or the town centre to prevent opportunistic theft. Participation in local Neighbourhood Watch schemes can also provide an extra layer of security.