Exeter Crime Rate July 2023 | Monthly Statistics

Exeter's crime rate in July 2023 stood at 4.7 per 1,000 residents, placing it 43.4% below the UK average of 8.3. This performance underscores the city's consistently lower crime profile compared to national benchmarks, though seasonal dynamics have introduced notable fluctuations. Anti-social behaviour was the most prevalent category, accounting for 32.7% of all reported crimes, followed by violence and sexual offences (23.6%) and shoplifting (11.4%). These patterns align with Exeter's character as a city with a strong tourism sector, a university presence, and a mix of historic and modern urban spaces. The high rate of anti-social behaviour may reflect the city's vibrant nightlife and summer festivals, which attract crowds and can strain local resources. Conversely, the low rate of violence and sexual offences—60% below the UK average—suggests effective community policing or a cultural emphasis on safety in public spaces. Seasonal factors also played a role, with July's peak tourism season likely contributing to shoplifting incidents and property crimes. However, the sharp decline in criminal damage and arson (51.9% month-on-month) may indicate successful fire prevention efforts or a reduction in vandalism during the summer months. These trends highlight the importance of understanding how local geography and demographics shape crime patterns, with Exeter's unique mix of tourism, education, and historic infrastructure creating a distinct crime profile compared to other UK cities.

July 2023 saw a dramatic 133.3% increase in burglary cases, jumping from 6 to 14 incidents. This surge contrasts sharply with a 51.9% decline in criminal damage and arson, which fell from 52 to 25 cases. The rise in burglary may be linked to Exeter's summer tourism season, which often sees an influx of visitors and increased foot traffic in residential areas. Meanwhile, shoplifting cases rose by 80.5% (41 to 74), a sharp increase that outpaces the UK average for this category by 17%. Violence and sexual offences dropped by 43.8%, from 272 to 153 cases, a reduction that places Exeter 60% below the UK average for this category. Anti-social behaviour remained the most common crime type, accounting for 32.7% of all reported incidents, though its rate (1.5 per 1,000) is only 6% above the UK average. These shifts suggest a combination of seasonal factors and local policing strategies, with property crimes rising while violent offences fell.

Exeter's crime rate in July 2023 fell by 15.5% compared to June, dropping from 5.5 to 4.7 per 1,000 residents. This decline aligns with a broader trend seen in many UK cities during peak summer months, though Exeter's rate remains significantly below the national average. On a daily basis, 21 crimes were reported in July, a figure that translates to one reported crime occurring for every 214 residents over the course of the month. This monthly exposure rate is lower than the UK average, which typically sees one crime per 120 residents annually. The population context reinforces Exeter's position as a relatively safe urban area, with crime rates consistently below the national benchmark despite its status as a tourist destination. These figures suggest that local factors—such as effective policing, community initiatives, or seasonal dynamics—may contribute to the sustained low crime environment.