Rural Bedford Crime Rate

Rural Bedford is characterized by a high safety score of 86/100 and a low overall crime rate of 58.2 per 1,000 residents. This figure is significantly lower than the UK national average of 91.6, making the area one of the more secure regions in the country. Data from January to December 2025 indicates a stable trend, with a minor 1.3% decrease in year-over-year crime figures. This consistency reflects the area's tranquil and residential nature, offering a much safer environment than the nearby urban centres. While property security remains a relevant consideration, residents benefit from a safety landscape that is considerably more relaxed than the broader national picture.

Crime in Rural Bedford

In the rural areas surrounding Bedford, violence and sexual offences are the most common reports, representing 36.2% of the total crime. Anti-social behaviour (18.5%) and criminal damage and arson (8.7%) follow as the next most significant categories. Property crime, which includes burglary, theft, and vehicle offences, occurs at a rate of 17.9 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the urban averages, reflecting the quieter and more residential nature of these villages. Burglary specifically accounts for 5.6% of total crime, with 50 incidents recorded. For those living in Rural Bedford, the primary concerns are often opportunistic theft and criminal damage, making secure boundaries and proactive monitoring essential for peace of mind.

Crime Trends in Rural Bedford

The crime rate in Rural Bedford has remained stable, with a minor 1.3% decrease in total offences over the last year. Analysis of the monthly data for 2025 shows that the rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated throughout the year, starting at 4.0 in January, reaching a peak of 6.1 in March, and ending the year at 3.6 in December. This consistency throughout the year is a positive sign for the community. While there was a slight peak in the spring, the overall trajectory is one of stability. For residents, this means that the area's high safety standards are being maintained, and the safety environment remains predictable and secure. continued community vigilance will be key to maintaining this stable profile.

How To Keep Safe in Rural Bedford

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Rural Bedford, accounting for 36.2% of all reports. To stay safe, residents should maintain general awareness and look out for one another within the community. Anti-social behaviour is also a notable factor at 18.5%, so ensuring that property boundaries are well-maintained and clearly marked can help deter trespassing. For homeowners, vehicle crime is a steady concern; always ensure cars are locked and avoid leaving any valuables inside. Maintaining good perimeter security and using motion-activated lighting can significantly reduce the risk of opportunistic property crime. Joining a local neighbourhood watch or village social media group can also help residents stay informed and contribute to the area's overall safety.

Crime in Rural Bedford follows a clear temporal cycle. During the morning and afternoon, theft is the primary concern, accounting for 40% and 42% of incidents respectively. This suggests that daytime activity in residential areas is the peak window for opportunistic larceny. As the evening sets in, the profile shifts toward 'other' crimes, including anti-social behaviour and public order offences, which make up 46% of evening activity. The night-time period (12am - 6am) is particularly important for vehicle security, as vehicle crime surges to 38% of all recorded incidents during these hours. This indicates that while the villages are generally quiet at night, cars parked on driveways are the most vulnerable to opportunistic crime during the late-night hours.

Compared to the nearby urban centres, Rural Bedford offers a much safer residential profile. Its crime rate of 58.2 per 1,000 is less than half that of the Bedford urban settlement (120.2) and significantly lower than Kempston (103.9). For those seeking a quiet lifestyle within reach of the town's amenities, Rural Bedford provides an excellent balance of accessibility and high safety. The stable trend in crime further reinforces its appeal as a secure and reliable part of the region for families and individuals alike.

In Rural Bedford, where property crime occurs at a rate of 17.9 per 1,000, homeowners should focus on security that acts as an active deterrent. In quieter rural settings, traditional alarms can sometimes go unheard, and basic CCTV only provides evidence after a crime has occurred. scOS offers a proactive solution by using AI to monitor property boundaries in real-time. For Rural Bedford residents, scOS can detect a potential intruder or an unknown vehicle before they even reach your home. By autonomously triggering lights or audio warnings, scOS destroys the element of surprise, encouraging opportunistic criminals to move on. This professional-grade protection is ideal for maintaining home security in a rural environment, ensuring that your property remains a hard target and your peace of mind is preserved.