Kidlington Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Kidlington

Kidlington records an overall crime rate of 59.7 per 1,000 residents annually. This figure is significantly lower than the UK national average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a comparatively safer environment. The area boasts an excellent safety score of 86 out of 100, notably surpassing the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent trends, Kidlington has experienced a stable period, with a minimal decrease of 0.5% year-over-year. This suggests consistent efforts in maintaining public safety within the area, providing a solid foundation for understanding the specific crime types and patterns detailed below.

Crime Breakdown in Kidlington

An analysis of crime types in Kidlington reveals that Violence and sexual offences constitute the most prevalent category, with 361 crimes, accounting for 38.5% of the total, at a rate of 23.0 per 1,000 people. Shoplifting is the second most common offence with 130 incidents (13.9% of total, 8.3 per 1,000), indicating retail security challenges. Other theft ranks third with 85 incidents (9.1% of total, 5.4 per 1,000), affecting personal property.

Property-related crime in Kidlington, encompassing burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, stands at 24.4 per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. Specifically, burglary accounts for 43 crimes (2.7 per 1,000), vehicle crime for 41 incidents (2.6 per 1,000), and other theft for 85 crimes (5.4 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these figures suggest that while property crime is present, it is less common than the national average, yet remaining vigilant and investing in robust home security measures is always advisable to protect your assets.

Crime Trends in Kidlington

Kidlington has experienced a stable crime trend over the last year, with a minimal decrease of 0.5% year-over-year. This indicates a consistent effort in maintaining public safety within the area. Examining the monthly crime rates per 1,000 people, fluctuations are evident. The crime rate was 4.0 in October 2024, rising to 5.4 in December, before dipping to 3.8 in January 2025. A subsequent rise was observed, peaking at 7.5 in June 2025, before settling at 4.3 by September 2025. These monthly variations suggest that while the overall trend is stable, there are periods of increased activity, possibly influenced by seasonal factors or specific local events. For residents, this stable 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 Kidlington

An analysis of crime patterns in Kidlington reveals distinct shifts in activity throughout the 24-hour cycle. During the morning hours (6am - 12pm), theft accounts for 51% of crimes, alongside 'other' offences at 22% and burglary at 12%. 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 54% and 'other' offences at 22%, while burglary rises to 20%. 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 41%, alongside theft (24%) and burglary (20%). This period often sees increased social activity and potential for public order issues.

Finally, night-time (12am - 6am) presents a clear focus on vehicle crime, which accounts for 36% of incidents, and 'other' offences at 28%. Burglary also remains a concern at 24%. 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 Kidlington to its immediate neighbours, a localised perspective on crime emerges. Kidlington's overall crime rate of 59.7 per 1,000 residents positions it very favourably against many surrounding areas. Begbroke, for example, typically presents a lower crime rate, reflecting its quieter, more residential character. Yarnton and Islip (Cherwell), also nearby, are generally smaller settlements that may experience different crime dynamics, often with lower overall figures but potentially higher per capita rates for specific issues. Bletchingdon, another close area, also provides a point of comparison, likely showcasing variations based on its specific demographics and local amenities. This regional context highlights Kidlington as a relatively safe area within the Cherwell district, with crime patterns that reflect its community focus compared to some of its neighbours.

Protecting Your Property in Kidlington

Given Kidlington's property crime rate of 24.4 per 1,000 residents, which is notably below the UK average, it is still crucial for homeowners to consider robust security measures. Traditional security systems often provide footage of a burglary after it has occurred, acting reactively. However, for real peace of mind and proactive crime prevention, a different approach is needed.

Consider an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS. This 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 no blind spots. 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 Kidlington home.