Cambridge Crime Rate May 2024 | Monthly Statistics

In May 2024, Cambridge’s crime rate stood at 8.7 per 1,000 residents, placing it 3.6% above the UK average of 8.4. This figure, while relatively low compared to other major urban centres, reflects a combination of local factors. The most common crimes were violence and sexual offences (25% of all incidents), shoplifting (18.5%), and anti-social behaviour (12.6%). These trends align with the city’s character as a university hub, where high foot traffic and a transient population contribute to specific crime patterns. Violence and sexual offences, though 23% below the UK average for this category, may be influenced by the increased socialising that occurs during the longer evenings of May — a month marked by bank holidays and outdoor events. Shoplifting, meanwhile, remains high, with 150% more incidents than the UK average, likely driven by the city’s dense retail environment and student population. Anti-social behaviour, though 24% below the UK average, may be tempered by the city’s strong community engagement initiatives and local policing efforts. The data also shows a sharp contrast in crime types: while property crimes (such as shoplifting and bicycle theft) dominate, violent crimes remain relatively low compared to the national average. This balance may be partly explained by Cambridge’s compact urban layout, which limits opportunities for large-scale property crime but also concentrates social interactions in specific areas. The seasonal context of May — with its extended daylight hours and increased outdoor activity — may also contribute to the observed patterns, as more people spend time in public spaces, both as potential victims and witnesses. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for residents and local authorities alike, as it informs strategies to address specific risks while maintaining the city’s overall safety profile.

May 2024 saw a dramatic 142.9% increase in robbery, with incidents rising from 7 to 17. This spike may be linked to the city’s university culture, where increased foot traffic during term time could create opportunities for opportunistic crimes. Other theft also rose by 51.2%, with 121 incidents reported — a 3% increase above the UK average. This category includes items such as personal belongings left unattended in public spaces, a concern for both students and local residents. Conversely, vehicle crime fell by 12.8% compared to the previous month, likely due to reduced commuter activity over May bank holidays. Shoplifting, already 150% above the UK average, remained a persistent issue, with 301 incidents reported — a reflection of the city’s high retail presence and student population. These figures highlight the need for targeted interventions in retail zones and university areas to address specific crime trends.

Cambridge's crime rate in May 2024 rose by 9.0% compared to the previous month, reaching 8.7 per 1,000 residents. This increase, while modest, translates to roughly 53 crimes reported daily across the built-up area. For residents, this means a 1-in-115 chance of encountering a reported crime over the course of the month — a figure that, while not alarmingly high, underscores the need for vigilance during peak social hours. The shift from April to May may reflect seasonal patterns, as longer evenings and increased outdoor activity align with the rise in violence and public order offences. However, some categories, such as vehicle crime, fell by 12.8% compared to the previous month, due to reduced commuter traffic over bank holidays. The local population of 187,642 means each resident’s risk remains relatively low, but the overall upward trend highlights the importance of community awareness and targeted policing in high-traffic areas.