Monthly Crime Statistics

Cambridge Crime Rate July 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Cambridge crime rate in July 2023 stood at 9.7 per 1,000, with shoplifting 117% above the UK average. The area saw a 11.3% monthly decline in overall crime.

1,454
Total Crimes
9.7
Per 1,000 People
8.3
UK Average
-11.3%
vs Previous Month

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Cambridge's crime rate in July 2023 reached 9.7 per 1,000 residents, 16.9% above the UK average of 8.3 per 1,000. This figure, while lower than June's 11.0 per 1,000, reflects the city's dual role as a university hub and tourist destination, where seasonal dynamics shape crime patterns. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 27.1% of all reported incidents, a share consistent with the city's population profile, which includes a large student body and a vibrant nightlife. Shoplifting (13.8% of crimes) and anti-social behaviour (13.7%) were the next most common categories, likely driven by the influx of visitors during summer festivals and the high footfall in retail areas. The seasonal context of July—peak tourism, open schools, and outdoor events—likely amplifies certain types of crime, such as public order offences (9.4% of total), which are 45% above the UK average. However, the city's relatively low burglary rate (3.4% of crimes) suggests that targeted security measures in residential areas may be effective. Cambridge's crime profile thus illustrates a balance between the pressures of a high-traffic academic and cultural environment and the proactive policing strategies that mitigate some risks.

July 2023 saw an 11.3% drop in Cambridge's overall crime rate compared to June, though this masks significant shifts in crime types. Theft from the person rose by 27.6% (29 → 37), likely tied to increased foot traffic during summer festivals. Conversely, robbery fell by 50% (26 → 13), possibly due to heightened police presence during events. Shoplifting remains a standout issue, with rates 117% above the UK average (2.0 vs 0.6 per 1,000), reflecting the city's retail density and student population. Bicycle theft. from 121 to 89, still exceeds the UK average by 500%, highlighting vulnerabilities in campus areas. Anti-social behaviour (13.7% of all crimes) and public order offences (9.4%) both align with Cambridge's vibrant summer scene, where crowded streets and festivals may amplify such incidents.

Cambridge's crime rate in July 2023 (9.7 per 1,000 residents) represents an 11.3% decrease from June's 11.0 per 1,000, indicating a notable shift in local crime dynamics. On a daily basis, the area recorded approximately 47 crimes per day—a figure that, while substantial, reflects the city's population density and activity levels. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 103 residents, a monthly aggregate that contextualises the scale of incidents relative to the population of 149,352. This rate is 16.9% above the UK average, suggesting that Cambridge's unique characteristics—such as its university presence and tourism—may contribute to higher-than-average crime patterns in certain categories. The reduction from June to July aligns with seasonal trends, as summer holidays and festivals may temporarily displace some criminal activity to off-peak hours or locations.

Crime Breakdown - July 2023

Crime TypeCountPer 1,000% of Total
Violence and sexual offences3942.627.1%
Shoplifting2001.313.8%
Anti-social behaviour1991.313.7%
Public order1360.99.4%
Criminal damage and arson1090.77.5%
Other theft1090.77.5%
Bicycle theft890.66.1%
Vehicle crime660.44.5%
Burglary500.33.4%
Theft from the person370.32.5%
Drugs210.11.4%
Possession of weapons170.11.2%
Other crime140.11%
Robbery130.10.9%

About Our Crime Statistics

Official government data sources for Cambridge

4,683+
UK Locations Monitored
8.2M+
Data Records
100%
Government Sources

Crime Rate Methodology

We determine crime rates by calculating recorded offences per 1,000 residents. This standardised metric enables meaningful comparisons between different-sized regions across the UK.

Information Sources

Official UK government databases provide all crime and demographic information, including Police.uk for offence records and ONS for population data. Statistics are compiled across town, district, and national boundaries.

Mathematical Formula

Rate per 1,000 = (Offences / Population) × 1,000

We exclusively use official UK government information sources:

  • Police.ukRecorded crime data from England and Wales' 43 territorial police forces
  • Office for National StatisticsDemographic data and Crime Survey statistics
  • Home OfficeNational offence records and crime policy information
  • FOI RequestsSupplementary data from direct police force requests
We monitor crime data across 4,683+ locations throughout England and Wales, covering the majority of significant towns, cities, and county areas. Updates occur promptly following new official data releases (approximately monthly), with historical records preserved for trend tracking.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

scOS is not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.

Page updated: 12 April 2026

New data is released by Police.uk approximately once a month