Bath and North East Somerset Crime Rate

Bath and North East Somerset is a notably safe local authority area, with an overall crime rate of 83.6 per 1,000 residents for the twelve months ending November 2025. This figure is well below the UK national average of 91.7, reflecting the area's generally affluent and stable character. The region boasts a high safety score of 81/100, which is superior to the UK average of 79/100. Recent data indicates that the crime trend is stable, with a slight 2.8% decrease in reported incidents compared to the previous year. This suggests a consistent and secure environment for the area's 200,000 residents. The following report will break down these statistics to provide a clearer picture of safety across the district.

Bath and North East Somerset is a diverse local authority area that combines the historic, high-tourism city of Bath with suburban towns and rural villages. The area's crime statistics are influenced by its dual nature as a major international tourist destination and a wealthy residential region. Bath itself attracts millions of visitors annually, which can lead to higher rates of opportunistic crime such as shoplifting and anti-social behaviour in the city centre. The area also hosts two major universities, contributing a significant student population which adds to the vibrancy but also the transient nature of some neighbourhoods. Economically, the region is generally affluent, though this can sometimes make it a target for property-related crimes. Excellent transport links to Bristol and London also play a role in the area's accessibility for both residents and visitors.

In Bath and North East Somerset, the most common crime types are violence and sexual offences (37.4%), anti-social behaviour (14.6%), and shoplifting (11.2%). These figures reflect the area's busy commercial and tourism centres. Property-related crime overall occurs at a rate of 28.8 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average of 32.3. This category includes burglary (4.0%), vehicle crime (3.3%), and other theft (7.3%), along with shoplifting and criminal damage. For residents, this means that while the overall risk to property is lower than in many other parts of the country, vigilance is still required. The prominence of shoplifting suggests that commercial security is a major focus, while the burglary and vehicle crime rates, though relatively low, indicate that residential properties still require standard security measures to deter opportunistic theft.

The crime trend in Bath and North East Somerset is currently stable, with a very minor 2.8% decrease in reported incidents over the past year. Monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows a remarkably consistent pattern, with the crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuating only slightly between a low of 6.2 in February and a high of 7.4 in October and November. This lack of significant variation suggests a well-managed and predictable safety environment. For residents, this stability is reassuring, as it indicates that there are no emerging spikes in criminal activity. The consistent figures throughout the year reflect the area's steady character and the ongoing effectiveness of local policing and community safety initiatives.

Within the West of England region, Bath and North East Somerset is a safe haven compared to its larger neighbour. Its crime rate of 83.6 per 1,000 is significantly lower than the 145.0 reported for the City of Bristol. While it shows a higher rate than currently reported for North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire, it remains a very secure area overall. Comparisons with nearby Newport and Stroud also show that Bath and North East Somerset maintains a competitive safety profile. For those considering the region, the area offers a high quality of life with crime statistics that are consistently better than the national average, making it a popular choice for both families and professionals.

While Bath and North East Somerset enjoys a property crime rate of 28.8 per 1,000—lower than the national average—residents should not be complacent. Property crime, including burglary and vehicle theft, still accounts for a significant portion of local activity. Traditional security systems are often reactive; they record a crime as it happens, which may help with insurance but does not prevent the emotional impact of a break-in. Proactive protection through scOS offers a more advanced solution. Using AI-powered intelligence, scOS monitors your property's boundaries and detects potential threats before they reach your home. By triggering autonomous responses like lights and audio warnings, scOS can deter a criminal in the crucial 60 seconds they take to decide on a target. In an affluent area like Bath and North East Somerset, where properties can be attractive targets, the deterrence value of a professional-grade AI security system is a vital investment in long-term safety.

How To Keep Safe in Bath and North East Somerset

The most common crime in the region is violence and sexual offences, which are often concentrated in busy city centres and during evening hours. To stay safe, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and plan your journeys, particularly when visiting the more active urban areas.

1. When out in Bath city centre at night, try to stay with a group and use well-lit, busy streets to reach your destination.
2. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded tourist areas, as opportunistic theft can occur where people are distracted.
3. Use licensed taxis or public transport when travelling late at night, and ensure someone knows your expected arrival time.
4. Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of sight when walking in public to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
5. If you ever feel unsafe, head into a shop or a busy venue and ask for assistance or wait until you feel comfortable to continue your journey.