Caernarfon Crime Rate

Caernarfon's crime rate of 152.4 per 1,000 residents is 67.5% above the UK average, with shoplifting standing out as a major concern at 157% above the national rate. This highlights the need for targeted safety measures in an area where retail and tourism create unique crime dynamics. While overall crime has decreased by 11.8% YoY, the sharp 100% increase in bicycle theft signals an emerging challenge for residents.

Caernarfon is a historic built-up area in Gwynedd, known for its medieval castle and tourist attractions. As a small town with a mix of residential and retail areas, it experiences unique crime dynamics. The presence of short-term rentals and seasonal tourism may contribute to anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. Economic factors, such as limited employment opportunities, could also influence crime patterns, particularly among younger residents.

The most striking finding is shoplifting's 157% elevation above the UK average (19.3 vs 7.5 per 1,000). This may reflect the town's retail density and tourist footfall, which create opportunities for opportunistic theft. Criminal damage and arson (131% above UK average) likely stem from anti-social behaviour linked to the area's transient population and limited community cohesion. While burglary is 16% below the UK average, this may be due to the compact nature of Caernarfon's housing, making properties less vulnerable to forced entry. The sharp 100% YoY increase in bicycle theft suggests a growing issue, tied to increased cycling during the pandemic or insufficient bike storage in public spaces.

Crime in Caernarfon has decreased by 11.8% YoY, with notable reductions in violence and sexual offences (-22.3%), anti-social behaviour (-17.3%), and public order (-23.4%). However, bicycle theft has surged by 100% YoY, indicating a significant emerging issue. The monthly trend shows a peak in March 2025 (15.4 per 1,000) and a trough in February 2026 (9.1 per 1,000), likely influenced by seasonal tourism patterns and university term cycles. Despite the overall decline, the sharp rise in bicycle theft requires urgent attention, as it reflects a growing vulnerability in the area's infrastructure.

How To Keep Safe in Caernarfon

Residents should secure packages on doorsteps and avoid leaving valuables in gardens, given the 157% above-average shoplifting rate. For criminal damage concerns, consider installing perimeter lighting and motion sensors. Secure bicycle storage is critical due to the 100% YoY increase in bicycle theft. Avoid leaving vehicles unattended in residential areas, as vehicle crime is 44% below the UK average but still requires vigilance. Community engagement initiatives, though not named, may help address anti-social behaviour linked to the town's tourism industry.

Crime in Caernarfon exhibits distinct temporal patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), aligning with retail hours and tourist activity. Vehicle crime spikes overnight (12am-6am), likely due to unsecured parking in residential areas. Other crime dominates late at night (12am-6am), suggesting lone perpetrator activity. The lower morning crime rate (6am-12pm) may reflect the town's quieter commercial environment during these hours. Weekend patterns, particularly on Saturdays, show elevated crime due to extended nightlife and daytime tourism.

Compared to nearby areas, Caernarfon's crime rate is 640% higher than Bontnewydd and 273% higher than Bethel. Bontnewydd's lower rate may reflect a more compact community structure, while Bethel's higher rate suggests different socioeconomic challenges. These disparities likely stem from variations in population density, tourism exposure, and local governance effectiveness.

For Caernarfon residents, addressing shoplifting and criminal damage requires proactive perimeter security. AI-powered systems can detect suspicious activity at property boundaries, using lighting and audio deterrents to prevent opportunistic theft. These systems distinguish between household members and potential threats, reducing false alarms. Given Caernarfon's 157% above-average shoplifting rate, continuous monitoring of delivery areas and garden spaces is particularly important. Ethernet-connected cameras avoid Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, ensuring reliable coverage for homes in this historically significant town.