Chorley Crime Rate

Chorley is a secure local authority district with a strong safety score of 82/100, placing it well above the UK average of 78. The overall crime rate in Chorley is 81.7 per 1,000 residents, which is notably lower than the national average of 93.1. Furthermore, the area is experiencing a stable trend in safety, with a 3.1% decrease in year-over-year crime figures. While violence and sexual offences and anti-social behaviour are the most common reports, property-related crime is also a significant factor in the local landscape. The following analysis provides a detailed breakdown of these patterns and offers practical advice for residents to maintain their security across the Chorley district.

Chorley is a historic market town in Lancashire, characterized by a mix of urban development, suburban residential areas, and rural villages. The area's economic profile is diverse, with significant employment in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Its strategic location, with excellent transport links via the M6 and M61 motorways and a major railway station, makes it a popular commuter hub for those working in Manchester, Preston, and Bolton. This transient population and high connectivity can influence local crime statistics, particularly regarding vehicle-related offences and opportunistic theft. Chorley's vibrant town centre and active nightlife also contribute to public order and anti-social behaviour reports. Demographic factors, including a growing residential population and varying levels of economic prosperity across different wards, play a role in the local safety landscape. The combination of commercial activity, transport hubs, and high residential density in certain areas creates an environment where both personal and property-related crimes are more likely to occur than in more isolated rural districts.

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in Chorley, accounting for 35.8% of all recorded incidents. This is followed by anti-social behaviour at 31.6% and criminal damage and arson at 6.6%. When examining property-related crime collectively—including burglary, robbery, theft, and vehicle crime—the combined rate is 19.0 per 1,000 residents. Other theft and shoplifting are significant contributors to this category, representing 5.2% and 4.3% of total crime respectively. Vehicle crime and burglary also remain relevant concerns for the community, accounting for 3.5% and 2.5% of reports. For residents and homeowners, these figures indicate that while personal safety and public order are the primary focus of local reporting, property security remains a significant component of the local safety landscape. Ensuring that homes and vehicles are protected against opportunistic theft and damage is essential for maintaining the district's security.

Chorley is currently following a stable safety trend, with an overall 3.1% decrease in crime over the last 12 months. Analysis of the monthly trend data for 2025 shows that the crime rate reached its highest point in May at 7.9 per 1,000 residents, followed by 7.7 in July. These figures were notably higher than the low of 5.7 recorded in February 2025. The latter half of 2025 has seen more consistent activity, with rates often between 6.6 and 7.4. This general stability suggests that while the district experiences seasonal fluctuations in activity, the overall crime environment remains consistent. Residents can feel confident in the area's ongoing safety, though the slight peaks in the spring and summer months suggest that increased awareness during these periods is still beneficial.

Chorley is situated in a relatively safe region of Lancashire. When compared to its surrounding local authorities, Chorley's crime rate of 81.7 per 1,000 residents indicates a secure environment, especially when viewed against broader national averages. While immediate neighbours like South Ribble, Blackburn with Darwen, Bolton, West Lancashire, Hyndburn, and Wigan all recorded very low activity in the same period, Chorley remains a safe and desirable choice for a district that offers a full range of urban services and residential areas. Its superior safety score of 82/100 makes it a premier location for those seeking a balance of community life and security in the heart of Lancashire.

With a property crime rate of 19.0 per 1,000 residents, Chorley homeowners enjoy a level of security that is far superior to the UK average. However, the presence of burglary and vehicle crime necessitates a serious approach to security. Traditional reactive security measures, such as basic CCTV or video doorbells, often only provide evidence after a crime has been committed. Proactive protection is a more effective strategy for maintaining the safety of your home across the district. The scOS AI-powered operating system is designed to prevent crime rather than just record it. Using multi-camera intelligence, scOS monitors your property boundary in real-time, identifying potential threats before they reach your door. It can distinguish between regular visitors and suspicious activity, triggering autonomous responses—such as activating lights or audio alerts—to deter intruders. This preventative approach ensures that opportunistic criminals move on, preserving the security of your Chorley home and providing genuine peace of mind in a safe but active local authority area.

How To Keep Safe in Chorley

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in the Chorley district, accounting for nearly 36% of local incidents. To enhance personal safety, residents should stay aware of their surroundings, particularly when walking alone during the evening in urban areas. Stick to well-lit main roads and avoid unlit shortcuts. Using personal safety apps that share your live location with trusted contacts can provide an extra layer of security. To address anti-social behaviour—the second most common report—community engagement is vital. Participating in local Neighbourhood Watch schemes or community groups can help deter disruptive activity and ensure that any issues are quickly reported to the police. Additionally, because property crime remains a factor, ensure that all windows and doors are always locked, even when you are at home. For vehicle owners, always park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving valuables on display. By remaining vigilant and working together as a community, Chorley residents can help maintain the district's high safety standards.