Cardiff Crime Rate October 2025 | Monthly Statistics

October 2025 marked a notable increase in Cardiff's crime rate, reaching 9.4 per 1,000 residents—22.1% above the UK average of 7.7. This figure underscores the city's position as a major urban centre where crime rates consistently exceed national benchmarks. The most prevalent crime category was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 29.3% of all incidents, a rate 2% above the UK average. This aligns with Cardiff's reputation as a hub for nightlife and social activity, where late-night incidents are more common. Anti-social behaviour followed closely at 13.2% of all crimes, though it remained 5% below the UK average, potentially reflecting effective community policing in residential areas. Shoplifting emerged as a striking concern, with a rate 90% above the UK average, likely driven by the city's high-density retail zones and the seasonal impact of Halloween. Public order offences also surged, 70% above the UK average, possibly linked to the increased use of public spaces during darker evenings. The seasonal context of October—marked by the clocks going back, shorter daylight hours, and the approach of Halloween—likely contributed to the overall rise in crime, as these factors can influence both perpetrator and victim behaviour. The city's mix of commercial, residential, and educational areas creates a complex environment where crime patterns are shaped by the interplay of population density, economic activity, and seasonal rhythms.

October 2025 saw a dramatic 58.2% surge in bicycle theft, jumping from 67 to 106 incidents—a rate 275% above the UK average. This spike follows the start of the academic year, with students likely contributing to the demand for bikes and the associated theft risks. Conversely, vehicle crime fell by 11.8% (280 to 247), possibly due to reduced car usage during darker evenings. The category of 'other crime' experienced the sharpest monthly increase, rising 69.2% (52 to 88), which may reflect unclassified incidents or underreported activities. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category at 29.3% of all crimes, 2% above the UK average, consistent with Cardiff's status as a major urban centre with a vibrant nightlife. Shoplifting, at 1.2 per 1,000 residents, was 90% above the UK average, likely driven by retail hubs in the city centre and increased foot traffic during the Halloween period.

Cardiff's crime rate in October 2025 rose to 9.4 per 1,000 residents, marking a 10.9% increase from the previous month's rate of 8.4. This shift positions the city as one of the UK's most crime-affected areas, with its rate 22.1% above the national average. Daily crime activity averaged 116 incidents per day, a figure that reflects the city's dense population and high foot traffic in central areas. Over the course of the month, 1 in every 107 residents experienced a reported crime, a metric that contextualises the monthly exposure for households. While the population size of 383,919 residents means individual risk remains relatively low, the concentration of crimes in specific areas—such as the city centre and transport hubs—suggests targeted policing efforts may be warranted. The rise in property-related crimes, despite a drop in vehicle crime, highlights shifting patterns that could be influenced by seasonal factors like Halloween and the transition to darker evenings.