Broadland Crime Rate

Broadland is one of the safest local authority districts in the UK, with an overall crime rate of 40.2 per 1,000 people. This figure is significantly lower than the national average of 91.7, earning the area an impressive safety score of 90/100. The crime trend is currently stable, showing a minor -0.7% change year-over-year. Data from December 2024 to November 2025 indicates a secure environment for residents and businesses alike. While violence and sexual offences are the most recorded crime type, the actual numbers remain low in the context of the district's population. This report explores the nuances of Broadland's crime statistics, providing insights into property crime, local trends, and practical safety advice for the community.

Broadland is a predominantly suburban and rural local authority district in Norfolk, wrapping around the northern and eastern edges of Norwich. The area is characterised by its affluent residential neighbourhoods, picturesque villages, and the famous Norfolk Broads. These characteristics contribute to its reputation as a peaceful and desirable place to live. The population is largely settled, with a lower transient population compared to major urban centres, which often correlates with lower crime rates.

Major economic activity in the area includes agriculture, tourism related to the Broads, and various business parks that serve as hubs for local employment. The district's proximity to Norwich means many residents commute, leaving properties unattended during the day. However, the strong sense of community and active neighbourhood watch schemes across Broadland play a significant role in maintaining its high safety score. The lack of major industrial zones and concentrated nightlife hubs further helps keep the overall crime rate at 40.2 per 1,000, which is exceptionally low by national standards.

In Broadland, the crime profile is led by violence and sexual offences, which account for 2,621 incidents (19.0 per 1,000 residents). This represents 47.2% of all recorded crime in the district. Anti-social behaviour follows at 5.1 per 1,000 (12.7%), and criminal damage and arson is the third most common at 4.2 per 1,000 (10.3%).

Property-related crime in Broadland is notably low, with an overall rate of 11.3 per 1,000 people. This combined figure includes 192 burglaries (1.4 per 1,000), 99 vehicle crimes, and 309 instances of shoplifting. Other types of theft and criminal damage also contribute to this total. For residents, these statistics mean that while the likelihood of experiencing property crime is less than half the UK average (32.3), it remains a present factor. Homeowners should not be complacent; the low volume of crime can sometimes make individual properties more vulnerable if they lack visible security, as opportunistic criminals may target areas perceived as 'soft targets.' Maintaining standard security measures remains essential to keep these figures low.

Broadland's crime trend is remarkably stable, with a negligible -0.7% change over the last 12 months. This consistency is a hallmark of the district's security profile. Between December 2024 and November 2025, the monthly crime rate per 1,000 people remained within a narrow range. The year started at 3.0 in December and dipped to its lowest point of 2.7 in January.

As the year progressed, there was a slight seasonal increase, with the rate reaching its peak in July at 3.8 per 1,000. This minor rise during the summer months is common in areas with high tourism activity. Following the summer, the rate stabilized again, ending the period at 3.0 in November. This lack of significant volatility suggests that crime in Broadland is well-managed and that the area remains a consistently safe environment year-round. For residents, this stability provides peace of mind that their neighbourhood's safety is not subject to sudden or dramatic changes.

Broadland is situated in a region of Norfolk known for its high safety standards. When compared to the nearby city of Norwich, Broadland offers a much quieter and more secure environment. Other neighbouring areas, such as North Norfolk, South Norfolk, Great Yarmouth, Breckland, and King's Lynn and West Norfolk, all contribute to a regional profile that is generally safer than the UK average. While some of these areas reported even lower crime figures in the specific data period, Broadland's rate of 40.2 per 1,000 remains remarkably low. For those seeking a balance between rural peace and proximity to urban amenities, Broadland stands out as a consistently safe and stable local authority area within the East of England.

With a property crime rate of 11.3 per 1,000 people, Broadland is a low-risk area for burglary and theft. However, in such quiet residential neighbourhoods, the psychological impact of property crime can be significant. Traditional security systems, such as standard CCTV or video doorbells, are often reactive—they record the event but do little to stop it.

For Broadland residents, the goal should be prevention. The scOS AI-powered home security system offers a proactive alternative. By monitoring all cameras simultaneously with intelligent AI, it identifies threats at the property boundary. If a potential intruder is detected, the system can use autonomous responses like activating lights or speakers to deter them before they ever reach your door. This "prevention over reaction" philosophy is ideal for Broadland's suburban landscape, where the visible presence of a professional-grade system like scOS can ensure that your home remains part of the district's low crime statistics rather than becoming an outlier.

How To Keep Safe in Broadland

Broadland is a very safe district, but violence and sexual offences remain the most commonly reported crime type. Residents are advised to maintain personal awareness, particularly when walking in less populated rural areas or using the Broads' footpaths after dark. Always let someone know your expected return time if you are out for a walk or run in isolated spots.

Regarding property safety, Broadland's low burglary rate should not lead to complacency. Ensure all windows and doors are locked, even when you are at home, as 'sneak-in' thefts can occur in quiet areas. If you commute to Norwich, consider using smart home technology to make your house appear occupied during the day. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue; reporting such incidents to the local council or police helps maintain the area's high safety standards. Finally, be mindful of criminal damage, which is often opportunistic; keeping vehicles in garages or well-lit driveways can significantly reduce the risk of your property being targeted.