Gloucester Crime Rate

Gloucester is a vibrant regional hub with an overall crime rate of 135.4 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the UK average of 91.6. This is reflected in its safety score of 68/100. Recent data shows that the crime trend in the city is stable, with only a minor 1.0% change over the past year. Property crime is a notable factor, with a rate of 40.4 per 1,000 residents, also above the national average. For those living in or moving to Gloucester, understanding these statistics is key to staying informed and secure. This data-driven overview provides a clear picture of the city's crime landscape, helping residents manage their safety in a busy urban environment.

About Gloucester

Gloucester is a historic cathedral city in the South West of England, serving as the administrative centre for Gloucestershire. Its crime statistics are influenced by its role as a major regional hub, with a diverse mix of urban, commercial, and industrial areas. The city attracts a significant transient population due to its status as a tourist destination, its vibrant nightlife in the Docks and city centre, and its position as a key transport hub with proximity to the M5 motorway.

Economic factors also play a role, with Gloucester having a varied employment landscape ranging from aerospace and financial services to retail. The population density in the urban core, combined with the high volume of visitors to the city's commercial districts, contributes to the higher rates of shoplifting and anti-social behaviour compared to more rural neighbours. These characteristics, typical of a busy, growing city, shape the crime profile and safety score of the Gloucester local authority area.

Crime Breakdown in Gloucester

Gloucester's crime profile is dominated by three main categories: violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and shoplifting. Violence and sexual offences make up the largest share, accounting for 37.4% of all recorded incidents (7,013 crimes). Anti-social behaviour follows at 18.8% (3,519 crimes), while shoplifting is also significant at 9.2% (1,724 crimes). Public order offences also contribute 8.3% to the total.

Property-related crime in Gloucester—which includes burglary, robbery, theft, criminal damage, and vehicle crime—stands at a rate of 40.4 per 1,000 people. This is higher than the UK average of 32.2. Within this category, criminal damage and arson (7.8 per 1,000) and other theft (7.3 per 1,000) are the most frequent. While burglary (4.0 per 1,000) and vehicle crime (4.1 per 1,000) are less common, they remain important considerations for homeowners and car owners in the city. The high rate of shoplifting also points to the impact of crime on local businesses.

Crime Trends in Gloucester

Gloucester's crime trend is currently stable, with a minor 1.0% increase year-over-year. This suggests that the overall volume of crime in the city is not significantly changing. Monthly data for 2025 shows that the crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated throughout the year, with a peak of 12.9 in August and 12.6 in May and June.

The rate was at its lowest in February (9.7) and remained relatively consistent for the rest of the year, staying between 10.4 and 12.0. These fluctuations are typical for a large urban area and often correlate with seasonal changes or local events. The stability of the trend is a positive sign, as it indicates that crime levels are being managed consistently by local authorities. Residents should remain vigilant but can feel confident that the city's safety profile is not undergoing any major negative shifts.

Gloucester's crime rate of 135.4 per 1,000 people is significantly higher than many of its neighbours. Nearby Wychavon has a much lower rate of 66.2, while Tewkesbury, Cheltenham, Stroud, Forest of Dean, and Cotswold all recorded no crimes in the latest data. This comparison highlights Gloucester's role as a major urban centre, which naturally attracts more activity and, consequently, more recorded crime. For those considering the region, Gloucester offers the amenities of a large city but with a higher crime profile than the surrounding, more rural local authorities. It remains the most active area in the county.

Gloucester's property crime rate is 40.4 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the national average. In a busy city environment, a proactive approach to home security is essential. Traditional systems like standard CCTV or basic alarms are reactive—they only provide evidence after a crime has been committed.

The scOS AI-powered security system is designed for prevention. By using multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's perimeter in real-time, scOS can identify potential threats before they reach your home. If someone is detected loitering or approaching your property, the system can autonomously activate lights and speakers to deter them. This immediate intervention is a powerful deterrent, as most opportunistic criminals will move on if they know they have been spotted. For Gloucester residents, scOS offers a way to actively protect their homes and stay ahead of local crime, ensuring their property remains a difficult target in a busy urban setting.

How To Keep Safe in Gloucester

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Gloucester, accounting for over 37% of all local reports. In a busy city, personal safety and situational awareness are key to staying safe.

To stay safe in Gloucester, consider these tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings when walking in the city centre, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid taking shortcuts through quiet or poorly lit areas.
• If you are out socialising, keep an eye on your drinks and stay with your friends. Plan your journey home in advance and use licensed taxis or public transport.
• Ensure that your home and vehicle are secure at all times. Most property crimes are opportunistic and can be prevented by simple locking routines for doors and windows.
• Be mindful of your personal belongings in crowded areas. Keep bags zipped and be aware of pickpockets in busy shopping districts.
• Report any suspicious activity or anti-social behaviour to the local police immediately. Your reports help the authorities manage and reduce crime in the city.