Cheltenham Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Cheltenham’s crime rate in January 2026 stood at 8.2 per 1,000 residents, placing it 24.2% above the UK average of 6.6 per 1,000. This figure, while stable compared to December’s 8.4 per 1,000, reflects a persistent challenge for local authorities. The most common crime category was violence and sexual offences, with 309 incidents reported (30.8% of total crimes), a rate 2% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour followed closely, with 214 incidents (21.3% of total crimes), 98% above the UK average—a stark indicator of the town’s ongoing struggles with public order. Shoplifting also featured prominently, with 121 incidents (12.1% of total crimes), 82% above the UK average. These patterns may be influenced by Cheltenham’s character as a market town with a mix of residential, retail, and tourist areas. The post-holiday period in January likely contributed to reduced retail footfall, which may have impacted shoplifting rates, though anti-social behaviour and violent crime remain elevated. Seasonal factors, such as shorter days and colder weather, may also drive indoor crimes or alter the distribution of criminal activity. The town’s proximity to Gloucester and its role as a commuter hub could further complicate patterns. The data underscores the need for targeted interventions in areas with high anti-social behaviour and violence, while the stability in overall crime rates suggests that broader measures may have tempered growth.

January 2026 saw notable shifts in Cheltenham’s crime profile. Burglary increased by 31.7%, rising from 41 to 54 incidents, a trend that may reflect seasonal factors such as reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours. Similarly, 'other crime' rose by 44.4%, with 26 reported incidents, indicating potential underreported or emerging issues requiring further investigation. Conversely, robbery and theft from the person both declined significantly—by 64.3% and 62.5% respectively—suggesting possible improvements in public safety measures or reduced opportunities for such crimes during the post-holiday period. Anti-social behaviour remained high, with 214 incidents reported (1.8 per 1,000), 98% above the UK average. This category’s dominance in the crime mix highlights ongoing challenges in community management, particularly in areas with high foot traffic or transient populations. Meanwhile, drug-related crimes fell by 55%, from 20 to 9 incidents, though this remains 63% below the UK average, indicating a possible local success in addressing illicit drug activity.

In January 2026, Cheltenham’s crime rate remained stable at 8.2 per 1,000 residents, a 1.9% decrease from December’s 8.4 per 1,000. This suggests minimal fluctuation in overall criminal activity over the holiday season. above the UK average. Daily crime figures show 32 reported incidents per day, a number that, while consistent with prior months, underscores the persistent presence of crime in local life. Over the course of the month, one in every 121 residents experienced a reported crime, a monthly exposure rate that reflects the density of incidents in a relatively small population. This statistic, when contextualised against Cheltenham’s population of 121,739, highlights the tangible impact of crime on individual residents. While the rate is stable, the distribution of crime types—particularly the sharp rise in anti-social behaviour and burglary—suggests shifting patterns that require closer attention from local authorities and residents alike.