Durham Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Durham

Durham, a built-up area with a population of approximately 62,733, reports an overall crime rate of 94.8 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is closely aligned with the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000, suggesting a comparable level of overall crime to the national picture. The area boasts a robust safety score of 79 out of 100, which is notably above the UK average safety score of 78/100, indicating a relatively safer environment. In terms of recent trends, Durham has experienced a stable period, showing a -3.3% change year-over-year. This introduction sets the stage for a detailed examination of crime types, temporal patterns, and security recommendations specific to Durham.

Crime Type Analysis in Durham

An analysis of crime types in Durham highlights Violence and sexual offences as the most frequent incidents, with 1,933 crimes (30.8 per 1,000 residents, 32.5% of total). This is followed by Anti-social behaviour, accounting for 988 incidents (15.8 per 1,000, 16.6% of total), and Shoplifting, with 987 crimes (15.7 per 1,000, 16.6% of total). These three categories collectively represent a significant portion of all reported offences within the area.

Considering property-related crime, which includes burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, Durham records a rate of 34.1 per 1,000 people. This is marginally above the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. For residents and homeowners, this indicates a moderate level of risk concerning property security. The notable presence of shoplifting within the top three crimes, alongside other theft, suggests that vigilance in public and commercial spaces, as well as securing private property, remains important for maintaining safety.

Crime Trends in Durham

Durham has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a -3.3% change year-over-year. This indicates a slight decrease in the total number of crimes compared to the previous 12-month period, contributing to the area's positive safety score. Examining the monthly trend data reveals fluctuations within this stable pattern. The crime rate per 1,000 residents saw a dip from 9.6 in October 2024 to 6.6 in December 2024 and February 2025, before generally rising to 8.6 in July 2025 and stabilising at 8.5 by September 2025. This suggests seasonal variations, with lower rates in the winter months and a slight increase during the summer.

For residents, this stable to slightly decreasing trend is reassuring, suggesting that crime levels are not escalating significantly. However, the consistent presence of crime, particularly the top categories, means that ongoing awareness and adherence to security best practices are essential. Understanding these monthly patterns can help residents to be particularly vigilant during periods when crime rates typically see slight increases.

Time-Based Crime Patterns in Durham

An analysis of crime data in Durham reveals distinct patterns throughout the 24-hour cycle. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), theft-related offences are particularly noticeable, accounting for 43% of crimes, closely followed by 'Other' categories at 36%, and burglary at 14%. This suggests a period where commercial activity might contribute to theft, and properties are becoming active after the night.

The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees theft remaining prominent at 44%, with burglary increasing to 22%. This could be linked to peak shopping hours and residential properties being unoccupied. As evening approaches (6pm-12am), 'Other' crime categories become dominant at 55%, with theft reducing to 19% and burglary at 19%. This shift might reflect increased social activity and different types of offences associated with the evening.

Night-time (12am-6am) demonstrates a clear focus on acquisitive crimes, with burglary representing 27% and vehicle crime 19%. This period, when most residents are asleep and properties are unattended, typically offers opportunities for these types of offences. Understanding these temporal patterns allows residents to be more vigilant and tailor their security measures to the specific risks of each time of day.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To provide a comprehensive understanding of crime in Durham, it is beneficial to compare its statistics with those of similar nearby areas. With an overall crime rate of 94.8 per 1,000, Durham presents a relatively balanced safety profile within its regional context. For instance, areas such as High Shincliffe, Ushaw Moor and Bearpark, Sherburn (County Durham), and Nettlesworth and Kimblesworth all contribute to the localised crime landscape. While specific rates for each cannot be detailed here, it is generally observed that smaller, more residential communities may experience different crime patterns compared to larger urban centres.

This comparison helps residents and prospective movers understand how Durham's crime rate positions it within the immediate vicinity. It underscores the importance of considering local nuances, as crime levels and types can vary even between closely situated neighbourhoods, offering valuable context for regional safety assessments.

Protecting Your Property in Durham

With Durham's property crime rate at 34.1 per 1,000 residents, which is slightly above the national average, it is prudent for homeowners to consider robust security measures. Relying solely on reactive security, such as traditional CCTV cameras, often means you only get footage of a burglary after it has happened. The true value lies in preventing the crime from occurring in the first place.

For those seeking advanced protection, scOS offers an AI-powered home security operating system designed for proactive deterrence. Unlike systems that merely record, scOS detects threats at your property boundary, acting as a real-time intervention. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures comprehensive surveillance, while features like DVLA vehicle verification can identify suspicious vehicles. ScOS learns your routines, distinguishing between family and genuine threats, ensuring you only receive alerts that matter. This autonomous response, which includes activating lights and engaging speakers, is designed to destroy the element of surprise for potential intruders, often making them decide to move on within 60 seconds. Positioned as a professional-grade alternative to basic DIY systems, scOS shifts the focus from recording crime to actively preventing it, offering superior peace of mind for Durham residents.