Southbourne Crime Rate

Southbourne's crime rate of 53.8 per 1,000 residents is 40.9% below the UK average, placing it in the 'Very Safe' category with a score of 88/100. Despite a sharp 111.1% increase in Other theft, the area remains significantly safer than the national average, highlighting its overall low-crime profile and effective local policing.

Southbourne is a built-up area within Chichester, characterised by a mix of residential properties and local amenities. Its proximity to the coast and commuter routes likely influences crime patterns, with lower vehicle crime rates reflecting reduced traffic density. The area's relatively high safety score suggests a cohesive community with effective local governance, which may contribute to its consistently low crime rates compared to the UK average.

Southbourne's most surprising finding is the sharp increase in Other theft (+111.1% YoY), despite remaining 33% below the UK average. This may reflect heightened awareness or changes in reporting practices, though the area's overall crime profile remains safer than national benchmarks. Violence and sexual offences, though 41% below the UK average, likely stem from isolated incidents rather than systemic issues. Anti-social behaviour, 21% below the UK average, may be mitigated by the area's tight-knit community. Property crime, at 44.5% below the UK average, benefits from low burglary rates (75% below average), likely due to the area's low population density and effective local policing.

Crime in Southbourne has decreased by 15.8% year-on-year, with most categories showing declines. However, Other theft has surged by 111.1%, likely due to specific incidents or increased reporting. Monthly trends reveal a peak in May 2025 (7.2 per 1,000/month), possibly linked to seasonal events, followed by a sharp drop in January 2026 (3.0 per 1,000/month). This pattern may reflect reduced foot traffic during winter months or improved local policing efforts.

How To Keep Safe in Southbourne

Southbourne's low crime rate means targeted prevention is key. For Other theft, secure valuables in vehicles and homes, especially during peak afternoon hours when theft spikes. To mitigate vehicle crime, avoid leaving items visible in parked cars, particularly overnight when vehicle crime rises to 33% of all incidents. For burglary, ensure doors and windows are locked even during the day, as 7% of incidents occur during daylight hours. Community engagement, such as participating in local Neighbourhood Watch schemes, further reinforces Southbourne's already strong safety record.

Crime in Southbourne peaks during afternoon hours (12pm-6pm), with theft accounting for 53% of incidents, reflecting retail activity and potential shoplifting. Evening hours (6pm-12am) see a shift toward vehicle crime (12%) and other unspecified offences (60%), possibly linked to reduced foot traffic and increased vehicle presence. Night hours (12am-6am) show a notable spike in vehicle crime (33%), likely due to isolated parking areas and lower surveillance. Morning activity (6am-12pm) remains relatively low, with theft (47%) and burglary (4%) concentrated around commercial hours.

Southbourne's crime rate of 53.8 per 1,000 is 22% higher than Hambrook and Nutbourne's 44.0 per 1,000 but 3% lower than Emsworth's 55.5 per 1,000. This reflects the area's moderate risk profile compared to its coastal neighbours, with Westbourne sharing the same crime rate as Southbourne.

In Southbourne, where crime rates are 40.9% below the UK average, proactive security measures can further enhance safety, scOS offers AI-powered perimeter detection, distinguishing between regular visitors and potential threats. Its ability to trigger automated lighting and speakers can deter opportunistic crimes like burglary (0.8 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (1.9 per 1,000). The system's seamless integration with existing cameras ensures coverage without gaps, ideal for Southbourne's low-crime environment.