Newquay Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Newquay’s crime rate in February 2026 stood at 8.1 per 1,000 residents, placing the built-up area 26.6% above the UK average of 6.4. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime profile, accounting for 40.7% of all incidents, followed by criminal damage and arson (11.3%) and anti-social behaviour (9.8%). The seasonal context of February—a winter month with low outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—may have influenced patterns, though the significant rise in violent crime compared to the UK average suggests deeper systemic factors. The town’s coastal location and reliance on tourism could contribute to higher rates of public order offences and anti-social behaviour, though these remain below the UK average for some categories. Shoplifting rates were 14% below the UK average, a contrast to the sharp increase in vehicle crime. The overall crime rate, while elevated, reflects a mix of local challenges and seasonal influences that require tailored responses. With 83 violent crimes reported, the area faces pressures that may be exacerbated by its transient population and the economic dynamics of the tourism sector. These trends, when viewed through the lens of Newquay’s geography and demographics, reveal a complex picture of crime that demands nuanced analysis and community-focused solutions.

February 2026 saw a dramatic 900% increase in vehicle crime, rising from 1 to 10 incidents. This sharp jump, the most significant month-on-month swing, may reflect seasonal shifts or unseasonal activity in the town’s transport infrastructure. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences fell by 19.4% to 83 cases, a decline that contrasts with the overall upward trend in crime. The category remains 42% above the UK average, highlighting persistent challenges in addressing violent crime. Anti-social behaviour, though lower than the UK average, accounted for 9.8% of all crimes, a figure that may signal ongoing issues in community engagement or policing priorities. For residents, the 7 daily crime rate offers a concrete reference point for understanding local safety contexts.

Newquay's crime rate in February 2026 rose 3.6% from 7.8 to 8.1 per 1,000 residents, reflecting a slight upward trend. This translates to roughly 7 crimes reported per day across the built-up area, a figure that situates the town within the broader context of its population of 25,247. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 124 residents, a monthly exposure rate that underscores the frequency of incidents relative to local demographics. While the increase is modest compared to the UK average, the daily crime count provides a tangible measure for residents to contextualise safety. The shift in crime patterns, particularly the surge in vehicle-related offences, contrasts with the previous month’s figures, suggesting potential seasonal or situational factors at play. These statistics, when viewed alongside the town’s coastal and tourist-oriented character, may indicate a combination of local activity and crime dynamics.