Cambridge Crime Rate February 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Cambridge's crime profile in February 2025 was marked by a 3% reduction in the overall rate compared to the UK average (6.5 vs 6.7 per 1,000 residents). This performance, while modest, reflects the city's unique characteristics as a university-driven urban centre where specific crime patterns emerge. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 26% of all reported crimes, a share that aligns with the area's population demographics and the presence of a large student community. However, shoplifting stood out as a major concern, with rates 94% above the UK average, likely driven by the high footfall of Cambridge's retail districts and university campuses. The seasonal context of February—a winter month with reduced outdoor activity—may have contributed to lower rates of public order offences and vehicle crime compared to busier periods. Anti-social behaviour remained a persistent issue, accounting for 14.6% of all crimes, though its rate (0.9 per 1,000) was 7% below the UK average. This contrast highlights the combination of local factors and national trends. The city's relatively low burglary rates (3.6% of all crimes) may be attributed to its compact built-up area and the presence of secure housing stock, though this is tempered by the high incidence of bicycle theft, which was 700% above the UK average. This anomaly, while puzzling, is likely linked to the city's dense student population and the prevalence of bike-sharing schemes. As a major academic hub, Cambridge's crime profile is shaped by a combination of transient populations, retail activity, and the seasonal rhythms that influence both victimisation and policing priorities.

February 2025 saw a sharp 116.7% increase in theft from the person, rising from 12 to 26 incidents. This spike, though still low in absolute terms, may reflect heightened caution during winter months when outdoor activity is limited. Conversely, bicycle theft fell by 33.3% compared to the previous month, dropping from 111 to 74. This decline, despite Cambridge's historically high rates for this category, suggests possible improvements in bike security measures or increased awareness among the student population. Shoplifting remained a standout concern, with rates 94% above the UK average at 1.2 per 1,000 residents. The dominance of retail theft in Cambridge—accounting for 18.8% of all crimes—highlights the role of the city's high street and university retail hubs in driving this category. Meanwhile, violent crime rates (1.7 per 1,000) were 28% below the UK average, a trend consistent with Cambridge's lower levels of alcohol-fuelled violence compared to other urban areas.

Cambridge's crime rate in February 2025 stood at 6.5 per 1,000 residents, a 10.2% decrease from the previous month's rate of 7.2 per 1,000. This decline aligns with typical seasonal patterns, as February marks a pre-spring lull in outdoor activity. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 43 crimes per day, a figure that contextualises the pace of incidents for local residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 155 residents, a metric that reflects the relative safety of the built-up area compared to larger urban centres. The population of 187,642 means that crime exposure remains distributed across a broad base, though specific hotspots—such as university campuses and retail corridors—likely concentrate certain types of offences. This monthly exposure rate is particularly useful for residents assessing personal risk, as it provides a tangible benchmark for understanding how frequently crime occurs in the local context.