Cheltenham’s crime rate, when compared to other towns within Gloucestershire and the broader United Kingdom, presents a nuanced picture. Based on available data, Cheltenham has a crime rate of 104.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This figure is higher than the UK national average of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 residents.
It's important to understand that crime rates are often expressed as incidents per capita, providing a standardised way to compare areas of differing population sizes. While a higher rate doesn't automatically equate to a more dangerous place, it does indicate a greater frequency of reported crimes. The population of Cheltenham itself is 121,739, meaning a significant number of incidents are recorded annually.
Comparing Cheltenham specifically to other towns within Gloucestershire would require data for each individual location, which is not currently available. However, the overall safety score for Cheltenham is 77 out of 100. The United Kingdom average safety score is 79. This score suggests that while Cheltenham isn't inherently unsafe, it scores slightly lower on safety metrics than the national average.
Factors influencing crime rates can be complex and include socioeconomic conditions, population density, and reporting practices. It’s also vital to remember that crime statistics only reflect reported crimes; the actual level of crime may be higher. Examining trends over time is also essential for a complete understanding, although data beyond the currently available period is not considered here. While the numbers provide a starting point, personal experiences and perceptions of safety can vary greatly within a community.