Burnley Crime Rate

Burnley recorded a crime rate of 140.7 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This is considerably higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a heightened risk of experiencing crime within the area. While crime rates have remained stable, showing a slight decrease of 1.0% year-on-year, it is essential to understand the specific crime types prevalent and the factors contributing to them. This data provides a valuable insight into safety concerns within Burnley and offers guidance on preventative measures residents can take.

Burnley, a historic market town in Lancashire, faces a complex set of factors influencing its crime statistics. The area's demographics, with a mix of younger and older residents, combined with pockets of deprivation and limited employment opportunities, can contribute to certain crime patterns. The town centre's vibrancy, while beneficial for the local economy, also attracts incidents of anti-social behaviour and public order offences. The presence of social housing and areas undergoing regeneration can also present unique challenges regarding community safety and security. Understanding these contextual elements is crucial for a nuanced interpretation of Burnley’s crime data.

Burnley's crime profile reveals a concerning prevalence of violent offences, accounting for 31.7% of all reported incidents. These include assaults, harassment, and other harmful acts. Anti-social behaviour represents another significant challenge, comprising 27.6% of recorded crimes, highlighting issues with public disturbance and nuisance. Criminal damage and arson contribute to a further 7.9% of incidents, impacting property and community well-being. Property crime, overall, stands at 42.4 per 1,000 residents annually. Shoplifting is a notable concern, representing 7.0% of all crime, reflecting challenges faced by local businesses. While burglary rates are lower than some other crime types, at 5.0 per 1,000, it remains a worry for homeowners.

Crime rates in Burnley have remained stable, showing a slight decrease of 1.0% year-on-year. January 2025 saw a rate of 10.3 per 1,000, which fluctuated throughout the year, peaking at 13.7 per 1,000 in August 2025 before settling at 11.3 per 1,000 in December 2025. This stability suggests that ongoing efforts to reduce crime are having a positive impact, although vigilance remains essential.

Burnley’s crime rate stands in contrast to several nearby areas. Rossendale and Hyndburn report significantly lower rates, at 0.0 per 1,000, while Pendle mirrors Burnley’s higher rate at 99.9 per 1,000. Blackburn with Darwen and Calderdale also report 0.0 per 1,000, highlighting Burnley as an area with a comparatively elevated risk profile.

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How To Keep Safe in Burnley

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Avoid walking through poorly lit areas and consider travelling with a companion. With vehicle crime being a concern, always lock your car, remove valuables, and park in well-lit areas. Given the number of reported burglaries, ensure your home is securely locked, consider installing an alarm system, and join a neighbourhood watch scheme. Finally, be mindful of anti-social behaviour and report any incidents to the police.