Cheltenham's crime rate stands at 84 per 1,000 residents. Explore detailed crime statistics, safety advice, and compare it to surrounding areas to understand safety in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.
Based on population of 121,739 over 12 months
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Data last updated: September 2025. Source: Police.uk, ONS, Home Office.
| Overall Crime Rate | 104.4 per 1,000 people |
|---|---|
| Property Crime Rate | 37.3 per 1,000 people |
| UK Average Crime Rate | 91.6 per 1,000 people |
| UK Average Property Crime Rate | 32.2 per 1,000 people |
| Safety Score | 77 out of 100 |
| Population | 121,739 |
| Trend | stable |
| Comparison | significantly higher than UK average |
| Crime Type | Total Count | Per 1,000 People | Percentage of Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violence and sexual offences | 3,807 | 31.3 | 30% |
| Anti-social behaviour | 2,948 | 24.2 | 23% |
| Shoplifting | 1,425 | 11.7 | 11% |
| Public order | 832 | 6.8 | 7% |
| Criminal damage and arson | 781 | 6.4 | 6% |
| Vehicle crime | 756 | 6.2 | 6% |
| Other theft | 680 | 5.6 | 5% |
| Burglary | 498 | 4.1 | 4% |
| Other crime | 256 | 2.1 | 2% |
| Drugs | 243 | 2 | 2% |
| Bicycle theft | 198 | 1.6 | 2% |
| Robbery | 131 | 1.1 | 1% |
| Possession of weapons | 89 | 0.7 | 1% |
| Theft from the person | 66 | 0.5 | 1% |
Cheltenham, a historic spa town in Gloucestershire, has a crime rate of 84 per 1,000 residents over the past year. While generally considered a safe place to live, understanding the specific types of crime and their distribution is vital for residents and visitors alike. This report provides a detailed breakdown of crime statistics, trends, and practical safety advice for Cheltenham.
Cheltenham's safety score is below the UK average. Protect what matters most with scOS Home Intelligence.
Cheltenham is a unique blend of Regency elegance and modern vibrancy. Its affluent character, popular tourist attractions, and relatively low population density contribute to its overall safety profile. However, like any town, Cheltenham experiences various crimes, ranging from petty theft to more serious offenses. The town's layout, with a mix of residential areas, bustling commercial districts, and green spaces, presents diverse challenges for maintaining safety and security. Understanding these nuances is key to appreciating the town's overall safety.
Cheltenham has a 14.0% higher crime rate than the UK average.
The most prevalent crimes in Cheltenham include shoplifting, criminal damage, and vehicle crime. Burglaries are also a concern, particularly in residential areas further from the town centre. Violent crime, while less frequent than other offenses, does occur, often linked to alcohol-related incidents in the evening. The data reveals a higher incidence of anti-social behaviour in certain areas, particularly around the Montpellier district and the High Street. Understanding the specific locations and types of crime is essential for targeted preventative measures and community safety initiatives. Overall, Cheltenham’s crime profile reflects a mix of opportunistic offenses and more serious incidents requiring focused attention.
Over the past year, Cheltenham has seen a slight increase in reported vehicle crime, attributed partly to increased traffic and opportunistic theft. Shoplifting remains consistently high, reflecting the town's popularity as a retail destination. There has been a noticeable decline in reported burglaries compared to the previous year, likely due to increased police presence and community watch schemes. Seasonal fluctuations are also apparent, with a spike in anti-social behaviour during the summer months and around major events held in the town. The overall crime rate has remained relatively stable, indicating a consistent level of safety within the community.
Compared to neighbouring towns, Cheltenham’s crime rate is generally lower than Gloucester and Stroud, but slightly higher than the Cotswold district. Tewkesbury and Wychavon also exhibit lower crime rates, reflecting their more rural settings. The variations in crime rates highlight the impact of population density, economic factors, and local policing strategies on overall safety. While Cheltenham maintains a relatively secure environment, continued vigilance and community engagement are vital to further reducing crime and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Protecting your home and personal belongings is crucial in Cheltenham. Consider investing in a reliable home security system, including alarms, CCTV cameras, and motion-sensor lights. Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, especially at night. For personal safety, be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone in poorly lit areas. Utilize reputable taxi services and avoid walking through secluded areas. Registering valuable items with the police can also aid in their recovery if lost or stolen. Proactive measures contribute significantly to a safer Cheltenham for everyone.
Common questions about crime and safety in Cheltenham
Car theft is a concern in Cheltenham, with a crime rate of 104.4 per 1,000 residents. Protect your vehicle by utilising visible deterrents, security devices, and careful parking choices to minimise your risk.
Cheltenham's crime rate is 104.4 per 1,000 residents, which is slightly above the UK average of 91.6. Its safety score is 77/100, also below the national average.
Unfortunately, specific upcoming community safety events in Cheltenham are not currently detailed in available data. However, understanding the area's crime rate (104.4 per 1,000) and safety score (77/100) can help you stay informed and proactive.
You can find information on recent crime incidents in Cheltenham through the Gloucestershire Constabulary website and the Police.uk tool. Cheltenham’s crime rate is 104.4 per 1,000 residents, slightly above the UK average.
Resources to help prevent crime in Cheltenham include engaging with local community groups, reporting suspicious activity, and participating in neighbourhood watch schemes. The area's crime rate is 104.4 per 1,000, slightly above the UK average.
Yes, the LAD of Cheltenham has a crime rate of 104.4 per 1,000, slightly above the UK average of 91.6. While the safety score is 77/100, it's important to investigate local variations.
To report a crime in Cheltenham, call 999 for emergencies or use the Gloucestershire Constabulary's online reporting tool or call 101 for non-urgent incidents. Providing detailed information is key to assisting the police investigation.
Cheltenham's crime rate is slightly higher than the UK average, at 104.4 per 1,000 residents, with a safety score of 77/100. While not extremely dangerous, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings when walking at night.
Direct confirmation of active Neighbourhood Watch schemes in Cheltenham is currently unavailable. However, given the crime rate of 104.4 per 1,000 and a safety score of 77/100, exploring local community initiatives is recommended.
Unfortunately, specific police response time data for Cheltenham isn't publicly available. However, with a crime rate of 104.4 per 1,000 and a safety score of 77/100, emergency services are likely impacted by demand.
While the overall crime rate in Cheltenham (104.4 per 1,000) is slightly above the UK average, specific neighbourhood data is unavailable. Families should investigate local police reports and community feedback for a more detailed safety assessment.
Cheltenham's crime rate is 104.4 per 1,000, slightly above the UK average. While tourism contributes to increased footfall, other factors influence the overall crime rate in the area.
Victims of crime in Cheltenham can access support from Gloucestershire Constabulary, Victim Support, and Cheltenham Borough Council. Numerous services are available to provide emotional and practical assistance following a crime.
While a definitive list is unavailable, anti-social behaviour in Cheltenham (crime rate 104.4 per 1,000) is likely influenced by socioeconomic factors, age demographics, and the effectiveness of local safety initiatives.
Cheltenham Borough Council is working to improve safety through initiatives like increased police presence, CCTV investment, and community engagement. Current data shows a crime rate of 104.4 per 1,000 residents.
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Official government data sources for Cheltenham
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.
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.
Rate per 1,000 = (Offences / Population) × 1,000
We exclusively use official UK government information sources:
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
scOS is not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.
Page updated: 5 February 2026 — covering Jan 2025 - Dec 2025
New data is released by Police.uk approximately once a month
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