Higham (Gravesham) Crime Rate

Crime in Higham (Gravesham)

Higham (Gravesham) is a very safe urban settlement, with an overall crime rate of 38.8 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK national average of 93.1, earning the area an impressive safety score of 90/100. Most importantly, the crime trend in Higham is moving in a very positive direction, with a substantial 32.1% decrease in total offences over the past year. This downward trajectory indicates that Higham is becoming even safer for its 2,447 residents. While certain crime types are present, the overall risk of criminal activity is very low. The following analysis provides a detailed breakdown of the crime statistics and time patterns for Higham.

Crime Breakdown in Higham (Gravesham)

Higham (Gravesham) is a low-crime urban settlement where violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type, representing 40.0% of all recorded incidents at a rate of 15.5 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most frequent issue at 14.7%, followed by criminal damage and arson at 11.6%. These figures indicate that community conduct and personal safety are the primary focus for the local area.

Property-related crime in Higham—including burglary, vehicle crime, theft, and criminal damage—occurs at a combined rate of 13.1 per 1,000 people. Vehicle crime is the most significant contributor to this category at 10.5%, followed by burglary at 6.3% and other theft at 5.3%. For residents, this suggests that while the overall crime rate is low, vehicle security is a priority. Homeowners should also remain vigilant, as burglary and theft, though infrequent, still occur. Proactive security measures can help maintain the area's high safety standards by deterring opportunistic offenders.

Higham (Gravesham) Crime Trends

The crime trend in Higham (Gravesham) is currently decreasing, with a significant 32.1% year-over-year reduction in total offences. Monthly data from late 2024 through 2025 shows that crime rates typically remain very low, ranging between 1.6 and 5.7 per 1,000 residents.

The highest activity was recorded in December 2024 (5.7), followed by smaller peaks in March 2025 (4.5) and September 2025 (4.1). The lowest activity was seen in November 2024 (1.6) and April 2025 (2.0). This overall downward trend, despite these minor monthly fluctuations, is a very positive indicator for the local community. It suggests that safety initiatives in Higham are effectively maintaining a very low baseline of criminal activity. For residents, this means that the area remains a consistently safe and secure place to live.

How To Keep Safe in Higham (Gravesham)

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Higham (Gravesham). To stay safe, it is advisable to walk in well-lit areas, especially at night. Staying aware of your surroundings and keeping your phone and valuables out of sight can also help you avoid being targeted.

Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue in the area. If you encounter such behaviour in public spaces, avoid direct engagement and report the incident to the local police or Gravesham Borough Council. Given the 10.5% rate of vehicle crime, extra care should be taken to secure your car or van. Always ensure that vehicles are locked, windows are closed, and no valuables are left on display. Using a steering lock or a tracking device can provide additional security. For homeowners, installing motion-sensor lighting and ensuring that all doors and windows have high-quality locks can help protect against the 6.3% burglary rate. Finally, joining a local Neighbourhood Watch group can help you stay informed about any crime trends in your specific area.

Higham (Gravesham) Time Patterns

Crime in Higham (Gravesham) shows distinct patterns throughout the day. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), vehicle crime and theft-related offences are prominent, accounting for 30% and 22% of crimes respectively. As the day progresses into the afternoon (12pm-6pm), burglary rates increase to 29%, and theft remains significant at 27%.

The evening (6pm-12am) sees a shift, with vehicle crime at 26% and burglary at 21%, while other crimes, including anti-social behaviour, peak at 45%. The most notable pattern occurs during the night (12am-6am), where vehicle crime surges to 52% of all recorded incidents. This suggests that while Higham is very safe overall, vehicles are particularly vulnerable under the cover of darkness. Residents are advised to ensure vehicles are securely parked overnight and to remain vigilant during the afternoon when burglary rates are at their highest.

Nearby Area Comparison

Higham (Gravesham) is one of the safest urban settlements in the region. When compared to nearby areas such as Lower Higham (62.0), Shorne (131.8), Rochester (99.8), and Cliffe Woods (33.5), Higham maintains a very strong safety position. Its crime rate of 38.8 is significantly lower than most of its immediate neighbours, making it a very attractive residential choice for those seeking a safe and quiet environment within the Gravesham local authority area. For those living in the region, Higham offers a high level of security and a positive safety trend.

Proactive Security in Higham (Gravesham)

Higham (Gravesham) has a property crime rate of 13.1 per 1,000 residents, with vehicle crime being a particularly notable issue at 10.5% of all offences. For homeowners and vehicle owners, the goal is to prevent opportunistic crime before it occurs. Traditional security systems, such as doorbell cameras or basic CCTV, are reactive; they notify you after an event has happened or provide footage for evidence. In many cases, by the time you see the alert, your vehicle has already been tampered with or your property damaged.

scOS provides a proactive security solution by using AI to monitor your property boundaries in real-time. It can distinguish between normal activity and a potential threat, such as someone loitering near your driveway or home. If a threat is detected, scOS can autonomously respond with lights and speakers, deterring the intruder before they can commit a crime. In an area like Higham, where vehicle crime is a concern, the ability to stop a crime before it starts is the most effective way to protect your property and vehicles.