Camden Crime Rate

Camden is a high-activity central London local authority, reflected in its safety score of 53/100. The borough's overall crime rate of 227.6 per 1,000 people is significantly higher than the UK average of 91.7, largely driven by its massive transient population and major transport hubs. According to data from December 2024 to November 2025, the crime trend in Camden is on a downward trajectory, with a 5.5% decrease year-over-year. While this improvement is positive, the borough remains one of the most active for criminal activity in the country. Property-related offences, particularly theft and burglary, occur at rates well above the national benchmark. The following report provides a comprehensive breakdown of Camden's crime statistics to help you understand the local safety landscape and the specific challenges of this central London area.

Camden is a central London local authority defined by its extreme diversity, ranging from the affluent residential streets of Hampstead and Highgate to the bustling, high-density urban centres of Camden Town and Holborn. As a major cultural and economic hub, it hosts world-famous attractions like Camden Market, which draws millions of tourists annually. The borough is also a critical transport gateway, home to three major railway termini: King's Cross, St Pancras International, and Euston. This massive transient population—tourists, commuters, and students—significantly inflates crime statistics, particularly in theft-related categories. Camden's vibrant nightlife, centered around its legendary music venues and bars, also contributes to a high volume of anti-social behaviour and public order incidents. The presence of major corporate headquarters, prestigious universities like UCL, and the British Library further adds to the borough's complexity. This unique mix of high-value property, intense commercial activity, and constant movement of people creates a challenging security environment that contrasts with its many quiet, highly-priced residential enclaves.

In Camden, the crime profile is led by anti-social behaviour, which accounts for 18.7% of all reported incidents. This is followed closely by violence and sexual offences at 16.0% and theft from the person at 15.9%. These figures reflect the borough's status as a major tourism and nightlife destination.

When examining property crime collectively—which includes burglary, vehicle crime, shoplifting, robbery, bicycle theft, and various forms of theft—the rate in Camden is a staggering 128.0 per 1,000 people. This is nearly four times the UK average of 32.3, highlighting that property is exceptionally vulnerable in the borough. Theft-related offences are particularly rampant, driven by the high density of people in commercial and transport areas. Burglary also remains a significant concern, occurring at more than double the national rate. For residents and business owners, these statistics indicate that physical security is not just a recommendation but a critical necessity. The high volume of opportunistic crime means that every asset, from smartphones to homes and vehicles, requires dedicated protection.

Camden's crime trend is currently decreasing, with a -5.5% change year-over-year. Analysis of the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows a consistently high but slightly improving crime rate, with the monthly rate per 1,000 people fluctuating between 18.3 and 20.5. The safest months during this period were January, April, and September 2025, while July saw the highest level of activity. This steady downward trend is a positive sign for the borough, suggesting that safety initiatives and policing are having an impact. However, the baseline remains exceptionally high compared to national averages, meaning that while the trend is positive, the overall volume of crime in Camden remains a significant challenge for residents and businesses.

Camden is situated in one of the most active regions of the UK. When compared to the City of Westminster, which often reports even higher crime rates, Camden is relatively safer. However, it experiences significantly more activity than other neighbouring boroughs like Islington, Haringey, and Hackney. While neighbouring Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea also deal with high property crime, Camden's role as a transport gateway for three major stations creates a unique security profile. For those seeking a central London location, Camden offers a vibrant but high-activity environment where safety is a primary consideration for residents and businesses alike.

With a property crime rate of 128.0 per 1,000 people—nearly four times the UK average—Camden residents and business owners face an extraordinary security challenge. In an area where theft, shoplifting, and burglary are rampant, traditional reactive security is often found wanting. Reactive systems, such as standard CCTV or basic alarms, typically only alert you after a breach has occurred, leaving you with little more than footage of the incident in a borough where opportunistic crime is frequent.

For those in Camden who want genuine protection, a proactive approach is essential. scOS is an AI-powered security operating system designed to prevent crime before it happens. By monitoring your property boundaries in real-time, scOS can identify potential threats and intervene autonomously. Whether it's verifying vehicle license plates or using light and sound to deter an intruder within the first 60 seconds, scOS removes the opportunity that criminals rely on. In a borough where property is constantly targeted, having a system that actively defends your home and business is a vital investment. Professional-grade protection like scOS ensures your property remains a hard target, providing the security needed to counter Camden's high crime statistics.

How To Keep Safe in Camden

Anti-social behaviour is the most common crime type in Camden, accounting for 18.7% of all reports. Given the borough's high overall crime rate and its status as a major transport and tourism hub, taking proactive steps is essential for your personal and property security.

1. Be Vigilant in Crowded Areas: Theft from the person is extremely common in Camden (15.9%). In busy markets, transport hubs, and nightlife areas, keep your phone and wallet out of sight and use bags that can be worn across the body and zipped shut.
2. Prioritise Home Boundary Security: With a burglary rate double the national average, ensure your home has high-quality locks and visible deterrents. Consider proactive AI security that can detect intruders at your property line.
3. Stay Aware During Nightlife Hours: Camden's busy bars and music venues can attract anti-social behaviour. Stick to well-lit main roads when walking at night and try to stay with friends.
4. Secure Your Vehicle and Bicycle: Vehicle and bicycle theft are persistent issues. Always use high-quality locks and park in well-lit, busy areas. For vehicles, avoid leaving any items visible inside.
5. Report Incidents Promptly: If you experience or witness anti-social behaviour, report it via 101 or the local council. Consistent reporting helps authorities allocate resources to the most affected areas.