Kesgrave Crime Rate

Kesgrave's crime rate of 25.0 per 1,000 residents is 72.6% below the UK average, making it one of the safest areas in the country. While violence and sexual offences remain the most common crime type, they are 61% below the UK average. The area's stability is further highlighted by its 93/100 safety score, which is 14 points above the UK average. Notably, burglary has surged by 300% YoY but remains 78% below the national average, suggesting effective local prevention measures are in place.

Kesgrave is a built-up area in East Suffolk, characterised by a mix of residential properties and small-scale commercial activity. As a commuter town with strong ties to nearby towns, it benefits from lower population density and a stable socioeconomic profile. These factors likely contribute to its notably low crime rates, with fewer opportunities for opportunistic crimes compared to more densely populated urban centres. The area's proximity to rural landscapes may also reduce certain types of crime, such as vehicle-related theft.

The most surprising finding in Kesgrave's crime data is that violence and sexual offences, though the most common crime type (12.4 per 1,000), are 61% below the UK average. This may reflect the area's relatively cohesive community and lower population density, which can reduce interpersonal conflicts. Criminal damage and arson (3.1 per 1,000) are also 53% below the UK average, likely due to effective local maintenance and community engagement. Anti-social behaviour (3.0 per 1,000) is 80% below the UK average, despite a 42% YoY increase—this could be linked to youth activity or seasonal factors. Notably, burglary has risen by 300% YoY but remains 78% below the UK average, possibly due to targeted prevention efforts or reduced opportunities for entry in well-maintained properties.

Kesgrave's crime rate has remained stable by 2.3% YoY, with overall crime at 25.0 per 1,000. However, several crime types have shown significant changes. Robbery has surged by 400%, though it remains 74% below the UK average. Burglary has increased by 300% YoY but is still 78% below the UK average. This rise may be attributed to isolated incidents or reporting changes. In contrast, vehicle crime has declined by 64.3% YoY, likely due to increased security measures or fewer vehicles in the area. Anti-social behaviour and other crimes have also risen by 42% and 37.5% YoY respectively, but remain well below the UK average. The monthly trend shows a peak in March 2025, possibly linked to seasonal factors such as longer evenings or increased outdoor activity.

How To Keep Safe in Kesgrave

Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas after dark, especially near car parks where vehicle crime spikes. Use well-lit routes for evening commutes and report suspicious behaviour promptly. For anti-social behaviour, which has risen by 42% YoY, consider participating in local community initiatives. Secure vehicles with alarms and tracking devices, as vehicle crime, while low, has seen a 64.3% YoY decline. Always lock doors and windows, even during the day, to deter burglars.

Crime in Kesgrave shows distinct patterns by time of day. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), aligning with retail activity and potential shoplifting opportunities. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am–6am), likely due to fewer witnesses and lower lighting levels. Anti-social behaviour and other crimes are most prevalent in the evening (6pm–12am), possibly linked to local nightlife or social gatherings. Notably, other crimes (68% of evening incidents) suggest a broader range of activities during these hours, which may be influenced by the area's commuter demographics and limited nightlife infrastructure.

Compared to nearby areas, Kesgrave's crime rate of 25.0 per 1,000 is 526% lower than Martlesham Heath (156.6) and 226% lower than Martlesham (81.6). This stark contrast likely reflects Kesgrave's lower population density, stronger community cohesion, and proximity to rural landscapes, which reduce opportunities for certain crimes. Martlesham Heath's significantly higher rate may be influenced by higher population density or different socioeconomic factors.

Home security in Kesgrave should focus on deterring vehicle crime and anti-social behaviour, which are the most prevalent concerns. scOS's proactive boundary detection and multi-camera monitoring can identify threats before they escalate, particularly useful for securing properties in low-light conditions. DVLA vehicle registration verification is also critical, given the 64.3% YoY decline in vehicle crime—though this decrease may not fully offset the 300% rise in burglary. Behavioural pattern learning can help distinguish legitimate activity from threats, reducing false alarms and improving response efficiency.