Bicester Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Bicester

Bicester records an overall crime rate of 75.9 per 1,000 residents annually. This figure is notably lower than the UK national average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a comparatively safer environment. The area boasts a strong safety score of 83 out of 100, surpassing the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent trends, Bicester has experienced a positive decrease, with an 8.3% reduction year-over-year. This downward trend suggests effective efforts in improving public safety within the area, providing a strong foundation for understanding the specific crime types and patterns detailed below.

Crime Breakdown in Bicester

An analysis of crime types in Bicester reveals that Violence and sexual offences constitute the most prevalent category, with 1,034 crimes, accounting for 35.2% of the total, at a rate of 26.8 per 1,000 people. Shoplifting is the second most common offence with 756 incidents (25.8% of total, 19.6 per 1,000), indicating significant retail security challenges. Public order offences rank third with 210 incidents (7.2% of total, 5.4 per 1,000), affecting community peace.

Property-related crime in Bicester, encompassing burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, stands at 35.4 per 1,000 residents. This is slightly above the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. Specifically, burglary accounts for 65 crimes (1.7 per 1,000), vehicle crime for 86 incidents (2.2 per 1,000), and other theft for 190 crimes (4.9 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these figures highlight the importance of robust security measures to protect homes and vehicles, as property crime levels are consistent with national trends.

Crime Trends in Bicester

Bicester has experienced a positive decreasing crime trend over the last year, with an 8.3% reduction year-over-year. This suggests effective efforts in improving public safety within the area. Examining the monthly crime rates per 1,000 people, fluctuations are evident. The crime rate was 5.7 in October 2024, rising to 6.9 in November and December, before dropping to 4.8 in February 2025. A subsequent rise was observed, peaking at 7.5 in August 2025, before settling at 5.6 by September 2025. These monthly variations suggest that while the overall trend is decreasing, there are periods of increased activity, possibly influenced by seasonal factors or specific local events. For residents, this decreasing trend is reassuring, but understanding these monthly patterns can help in being more aware during periods of slightly higher incidence, particularly during summer months when activities tend to increase.

Crime Time Patterns in Bicester

An analysis of crime patterns in Bicester reveals distinct shifts in activity throughout the 24-hour cycle. During the morning hours (6am - 12pm), theft accounts for 53% of crimes, alongside 'other' offences at 30% and burglary at 7%. This period often coincides with the start of the working day and commercial activity, creating opportunities for certain types of property crime.

The afternoon (12pm - 6pm) shows a similar trend with theft remaining the highest at 55% and 'other' offences at 30%, while burglary rises to 11%. This suggests continued activity in public and commercial areas, as well as potential targeting of residential properties when occupants are out.

As the evening (6pm - 12am) progresses, the nature of crime shifts. 'Other' offences become dominant at 52%, alongside theft (26%) and burglary (11%). This period often sees increased social activity and potential for public order issues.

Finally, night-time (12am - 6am) presents a clear focus on 'other' offences, which account for 40% of incidents, and vehicle crime at 31%. Burglary also remains a concern at 15%. The cover of darkness often facilitates these types of crimes, particularly when streets are quieter and properties are unattended.

Crime in Nearby Areas

When comparing Bicester to its immediate neighbours, a localised perspective on crime emerges. Bicester's overall crime rate of 75.9 per 1,000 residents positions it favourably against some, yet higher than more rural counterparts. Launton, for example, typically presents a lower crime rate, reflecting its quieter, more residential character. Chesterton and Ambrosden, also nearby, are generally smaller settlements that may experience different crime dynamics, often with lower overall figures. Bucknell (Cherwell), another close area, also provides a point of comparison, likely showcasing variations based on its specific demographics and local amenities. This regional context highlights Bicester as a more urban centre within the Cherwell district, with crime patterns that reflect its larger population and commercial activity compared to its smaller, more tranquil neighbours.

Protecting Your Property in Bicester

With Bicester's property crime rate of 35.4 per 1,000 residents, which is slightly above the UK average, it is crucial for homeowners to prioritise effective security. Traditional CCTV systems often only provide footage of a burglary after it has occurred, offering a reactive response. To truly safeguard your property, a proactive approach to crime prevention is essential.

Consider an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS. This advanced technology is designed to prevent crime before it happens by detecting threats at your property boundary, rather than merely recording an incident after a break-in. Unlike many DIY systems that notify you post-event, scOS intervenes in real-time. Its multi-camera intelligence watches all cameras simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly identify suspicious vehicles with fake plates, while pattern learning distinguishes between family routines and genuine threats, reducing false alarms. With autonomous responses such as activating lights and engaging speakers, scOS destroys the element of surprise, often causing potential intruders to move on. Most burglars make a decision within 60 seconds; visible, professional-grade deterrence signals serious protection, making your property a less appealing target. Investing in such proactive security shifts the focus from recording a crime to preventing it entirely, offering a superior level of protection for your Bicester home.