Ceredigion Crime Rate

Ceredigion, a local authority district in mid-Wales, recorded a crime rate of 69.7 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This figure is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment compared to many areas of the country. However, crime rates have been increasing, rising by 24.9% year-on-year, necessitating an understanding of the specific crime types contributing to this trend and proactive measures to ensure resident safety.

Ceredigion’s character as a predominantly rural local authority influences its crime statistics. The dispersed population, coupled with agricultural activities and a reliance on tourism, can contribute to unique crime patterns. Factors such as the availability of isolated properties, the prevalence of rural crime like theft of machinery or livestock, and the impact of seasonal tourism fluctuations on petty crime are all potential considerations. The demographics of the area, with a relatively older population and lower population density compared to urban areas, also play a role in shaping the overall crime landscape. Understanding these characteristics is key to interpreting the reported crime statistics.

The most prevalent crimes in Ceredigion between January 2025 and December 2025 were violence and sexual offences, accounting for 46.1% of all recorded incidents (2336 crimes). Criminal damage and arson followed, contributing 9.8% (497 crimes), alongside anti-social behaviour (8.5%, 431 crimes) and public order offences (8.4%, 428 crimes). Overall property crime, encompassing burglary, theft, and criminal damage, totalled 19.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting accounted for 5.1% of crimes, while burglary represented a smaller proportion at 3.0%. The diverse nature of these crimes highlights the varying challenges faced by the local authority.

Crime in Ceredigion has exhibited a concerning upward trend, increasing by 24.9% year-on-year. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 reveals fluctuations, with peaks observed in January (6.5 per 1,000) and July (6.9 per 1,000), and a lower point in September (5.1 per 1,000). While the December 2025 figure (4.9 per 1,000) was lower than some previous months, the overall upward trajectory remains a significant concern. This rise suggests a need for enhanced preventative measures and community engagement to address the underlying causes of this increase.

When compared to neighbouring areas such as Powys, Carmarthenshire, Gwynedd, Swansea, Merthyr Tydfil, and Neath Port Talbot, Ceredigion’s crime rate of 69.7 per 1,000 is notably higher. All these surrounding areas recorded a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000, highlighting a significant disparity in safety levels across the region. This difference underscores the unique challenges faced by Ceredigion and the importance of targeted safety initiatives.

Traditional CCTV systems often simply record footage after a crime has occurred. scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, takes a proactive approach. It uses multi-camera intelligence to watch your entire property boundary simultaneously, detecting potential threats before they escalate. DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles, and pattern learning recognises your family and deliveries, so only genuine threats trigger an alert. Like the 60-second decision a burglar makes, scOS’s visible deterrence can make them move on before any damage is done. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively preventing threats at your property line is another.

How To Keep Safe in Ceredigion

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s vital to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when out alone at night. Consider walking with a friend or using well-lit routes. Due to the risk of criminal damage and arson, ensure that any outbuildings or vehicles are securely locked and stored. With anti-social behaviour being a notable concern, reporting any suspicious activity to the local authorities can help to deter future incidents. Finally, secure your property well – windows and doors should be locked, and consider installing an alarm system.