Buckinghamshire Crime Rate

Buckinghamshire maintains a high standard of safety, with an overall crime rate of 62.4 per 1,000 residents recorded between December 2024 and November 2025. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.7, earning the area an impressive safety score of 85/100. The recent trend is described as stable, with a modest 2.1% decrease in total crimes compared to the previous year. As a largely affluent and semi-rural county, Buckinghamshire benefits from a secure residential environment, though it still faces challenges typical of areas with major commuter towns and transport links. The following report provides a detailed analysis of the local crime statistics and safety trends.

About Buckinghamshire

Buckinghamshire is a diverse local authority area that blends affluent suburban towns with significant rural expanses and busy commercial centres. Its crime statistics are influenced by its proximity to London, making it a desirable residential area for commuters, which in turn can attract property-related crime. Major transport links like the M40 and M25 provide high connectivity but also facilitate transient criminal activity.

The area is home to significant employment hubs and retail destinations, such as those in High Wycombe and Aylesbury, which contribute to the local crime profile through shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. Despite these urban pockets, much of the county remains rural, including parts of the Chilterns, which generally experience much lower crime rates. The population is relatively stable, but the contrast between high-density urban areas and quiet villages creates a varied safety landscape. Economic prosperity in many parts of the county can occasionally make residential properties targets for high-value burglary, though the overall safety score remains high compared to the national average.

Crime in Buckinghamshire

The crime profile of Buckinghamshire is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which account for 13,821 incidents or 38.3% of the total crime volume. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue at 11.2% (4,036 crimes), followed by "other theft" at 9.4% (3,392 crimes). These top categories reflect a mix of interpersonal conflict and opportunistic crime common in semi-rural counties with established urban centres.

Property crime in Buckinghamshire occurs at a rate of 23.0 per 1,000 people, which is notably lower than the UK average of 32.3. This category includes 2,186 vehicle crimes, 1,295 burglaries, and 2,867 shoplifting offences. Additionally, criminal damage and arson (2,798), bicycle theft (164), and robbery (341) contribute to the overall property risk. For residents, this means that while the area is generally safer than many parts of the UK, vehicle security and home protection remain important. The prevalence of theft and burglary, though lower than national figures, still necessitates a proactive approach to securing high-value assets and residential boundaries.

Crime Trends in Buckinghamshire

The crime trend in Buckinghamshire is currently stable, with a year-over-year decrease of 2.1%. This indicates that the county is successfully maintaining its relatively low crime levels, with no significant spikes in overall activity compared to the previous twelve-month period.

An analysis of the monthly crime rates from December 2024 to November 2025 reveals a fairly consistent pattern. The year started with rates around 4.8 to 4.9 per 1,000, rising slightly through the spring. A peak was reached in July 2025, with the rate hitting 6.1 per 1,000 residents. Following this peak, the rate gradually declined and stabilised at 5.0 per 1,000 for the final two months of the period. This summer peak is a common trend in many areas, often associated with increased outdoor activity and holiday periods. For Buckinghamshire residents, this stable trend is encouraging, suggesting that the county remains a secure environment with predictable and well-managed crime levels throughout the year.

Buckinghamshire sits within a region of varying crime profiles. In this data set, neighbouring areas such as Dacorum, South Oxfordshire, and Three Rivers all show a reported crime rate of 0.0, which contrasts with Buckinghamshire's 62.4 per 1,000. While these zero-rated figures may be due to specific data boundaries, Buckinghamshire remains a very safe choice compared to more urbanised nearby locations like Luton, Watford, and Oxford. For residents and commuters, Buckinghamshire offers a balanced safety profile that is significantly more secure than the major urban centres in the surrounding counties. This makes it a highly attractive area for those prioritising a safe residential environment while maintaining proximity to regional economic hubs.

With a property crime rate of 23.0 per 1,000 people, Buckinghamshire is safer than much of the UK, yet the risk of burglary and vehicle crime remains a reality for many residents. Traditional security systems often provide a false sense of security; they are reactive, meaning they only alert you or record footage after an incident has occurred. For homeowners in Buckinghamshire, the goal should be prevention.

scOS offers a proactive alternative by using AI to detect threats at the property boundary. By watching all cameras simultaneously, it identifies suspicious activity and can initiate an autonomous response—such as activating security lights or audio alerts—to deter an intruder before they attempt a break-in. This element of surprise is a powerful tool in stopping crime before it happens. In an area like Buckinghamshire, where many properties are high-value, moving to an AI-powered system like scOS ensures that your security is always one step ahead, focusing on active deterrence rather than just providing evidence after the fact.

How To Keep Safe in Buckinghamshire

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently recorded crime type in Buckinghamshire, representing 38.3% of all incidents. While the county is generally very safe, taking proactive steps can further enhance your personal security.

When walking in town centres like Aylesbury or High Wycombe, especially at night, try to stay in well-lit areas and be mindful of your surroundings. If you are using public transport or walking home, let someone know your expected arrival time. Personal safety apps or carrying a personal alarm can provide an extra layer of reassurance for those who frequently travel alone.

Given that "other theft" and shoplifting are also prominent, it is wise to be vigilant in busy shopping areas. Keep your bags zipped and avoid leaving valuables like phones or wallets in easily accessible pockets. In residential areas, participating in a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme can foster a stronger community spirit and help in reporting suspicious activity early. For vehicle owners, always double-check that your car is locked and avoid leaving any items, even small ones, on display, as this can attract opportunistic thieves.