Cambridge Crime Rate October 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Cambridge's crime rate in October 2025 stood at 9.1 per 1,000, placing it 18.2% above the UK average of 7.7. This figure reflects a combination of local factors, including the city's academic and retail environments. The most common crimes reported were violence and sexual offences (27.7% of total), anti-social behaviour (15.3%), and shoplifting (11.6%). These patterns align with Cambridge's character as a university city, where high foot traffic in areas like the central high street may contribute to both retail crime and public disorder. The seasonal context of October — with clocks going back and shorter evenings — likely influenced the prevalence of anti-social behaviour and violence, as darker conditions may deter natural surveillance. Shoplifting rates, while lower than in some major urban centres, remain significantly above the UK average, a trend consistent with the presence of multiple high-street retailers and tourist attractions. The city's crime profile also includes a notable spike in drug-related offences, which, while not directly tied to seasonal factors, may reflect ongoing challenges in managing illicit substance use in densely populated areas. Cambridge's crime statistics highlight the need for targeted policing strategies that address both the unique demands of a student population and the broader urban dynamics of a major academic hub.

The most dramatic month-on-month change occurred in drug-related crimes, which surged by 90.7% (from 54 to 103). This spike, though not directly linked to seasonal factors, may reflect heightened activity in areas with high student populations or increased availability of illicit substances. Conversely, criminal damage and arson fell by 24.5% (from 94 to 71), a decline consistent with the reduced visibility of outdoor spaces during darker evenings. Cambridge's rate for shoplifting (1.1 per 1,000) is 75% above the UK average, a disparity likely driven by the city's retail density and foot traffic. Bicycle theft, at 0.5 per 1,000, is 525% above the UK average — a figure that aligns with Cambridge's status as a university city with a high proportion of cyclists. Residents may find the 72% increase in 'other crime' (from 18 to 33) particularly noteworthy, as this category often includes offences that are harder to predict or prevent.

Cambridge's crime rate rose to 9.1 per 1,000 in October 2025, a 5.4% increase from the previous month's 8.6. This translates to 44 crimes reported daily on average, a figure that underscores the persistent nature of local crime patterns. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 110 residents — a metric that, while not directly comparable to national averages, offers insight into the frequency of incidents within the local population. The population-scaled perspective reveals that Cambridge's crime rate remains higher than the UK average, with 18.2% of its rate exceeding the national figure. This discrepancy is amplified by the city's unique demographic profile, where student populations and academic institutions may contribute to distinct crime dynamics. The daily crime count, while a local measure, highlights the need for targeted interventions during high-traffic periods such as term time or seasonal events like Halloween.