Southbourne Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Southbourne

Southbourne reports an overall crime rate of 51.5 per 1,000 people per year, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 93.1 per 1,000. This contributes to Southbourne's impressive safety score of 88 out of 100, indicating a very safe environment compared to the national average of 78. Furthermore, recent data shows a decreasing trend in crime, with a -24.5% drop year-over-year. This overview provides context for the detailed crime statistics and trends within the Southbourne area.

Crime Breakdown in Southbourne

An analysis of crime types in Southbourne reveals that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 36.5% of all reported crimes, with a rate of 18.8 per 1,000 people. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common, making up 21.3% of offences at 11.0 per 1,000. Criminal damage and arson ranks third, representing 13.1% of crimes with a rate of 6.8 per 1,000 residents.

Property-related crime in Southbourne, which includes burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, stands at 15.8 per 1,000 people per year. This is significantly lower than the UK average property crime rate of 32.9 per 1,000. For residents and homeowners, this indicates a very low risk of property-related offences, but basic security measures should still be maintained.

Crime Trends in Southbourne

Southbourne has experienced a significant decreasing trend in its overall crime rate, with a year-over-year drop of -24.5%. Examining the monthly trend data reveals fluctuations throughout the year. The crime rate per 1,000 residents saw notable decreases in December 2024 (3.0) and October 2025 (3.6), suggesting consistent efforts or factors contributing to reduced criminal activity. In contrast, May 2025 (7.2) recorded a higher rate. This overall downward trajectory indicates Southbourne is becoming safer, with residents benefiting from a reduced likelihood of encountering crime.

How To Keep Safe in Southbourne

Given that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type in Southbourne, residents should prioritise personal safety. When out, especially in busy areas or during evenings, remain vigilant of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night if possible, or stick to well-lit, populated routes. If you feel threatened, seek immediate assistance from a trusted person or contact emergency services. Consider carrying a personal safety alarm for added reassurance and to deter potential aggressors.

Crime Time Patterns in Southbourne

Crime patterns in Southbourne show distinct shifts throughout the day. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are primarily affected by theft and 'other' crimes, alongside some vehicle offences. As the day progresses into the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft remains prevalent, but there's a noticeable increase in burglary incidents. Evening periods (6pm-12am) see a significant rise in 'other' crimes, with vehicle crime also becoming more frequent. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime and burglary become more pronounced, indicating that properties and vehicles are more vulnerable when residents are typically asleep.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When comparing Southbourne to its neighbouring urban areas, a varied picture emerges. Hambrook and Nutbourne reports a lower crime rate of 46.1 per 1,000 people per year, while Westbourne has a higher rate of 60.1 per 1,000. Emsworth also reports a slightly higher rate at 52.9 per 1,000. Hambrook (Chichester) is listed with a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000. This data suggests that Southbourne's crime rate is competitive within its immediate regional context, being lower than some and higher than others.

Enhanced Protection for Your Home in Southbourne

With Southbourne's property crime rate at 15.8 per 1,000 people per year, which is notably lower than the UK average, residents can still enhance their security. Traditional CCTV systems often only provide footage after a crime has occurred, acting reactively. For truly proactive protection, consider advanced AI-powered security systems like scOS. These systems detect threats at your property boundary, rather than after a break-in, effectively preventing crime before it happens. By watching all cameras simultaneously and learning your routines, scOS offers real-time intervention through features like activating lights and engaging speakers, destroying the element of surprise that burglars rely on. This professional-grade deterrence signals serious protection, making burglars move on within that critical 60-second decision window.