Hackney Crime Rate

Hackney faces significant crime challenges, with an overall crime rate of 148.9 per 1,000 people. This figure is substantially higher than the UK average of 91.7, resulting in a safety score of 68/100, compared to the national benchmark of 79/100. Despite these high numbers, the trend in Hackney is currently stable, showing a 3.5% decrease in total crimes over the past year. This suggests that while the borough remains a high-crime area, the situation is not currently escalating. The following sections provide a detailed analysis of Hackney's crime breakdown, monthly trends, and regional comparisons to help residents and visitors navigate the area safely.

Hackney is a vibrant and densely populated borough in East London, characterized by rapid gentrification alongside areas of significant social deprivation. This contrast creates a unique demographic landscape. The borough is a major cultural and nightlife destination, with hubs like Shoreditch, Dalston, and Hackney Central attracting large numbers of visitors. The high density of bars, restaurants, and creative industries, combined with major transport links, significantly influences local crime statistics. Specifically, the high volume of people in public spaces contributes to higher rates of theft from the person and anti-social behaviour. Economic disparities and urban density are key factors in Hackney's crime profile, making it a complex area for community safety and policing.

In Hackney, the most common crime types are violence and sexual offences (22.1%), anti-social behaviour (20.0%), and theft from the person (10.7%). The high prevalence of theft from the person is particularly notable and is often linked to the borough's busy nightlife and crowded public spaces. Property-related crime is also a major factor, with a combined rate of 67.7 per 1,000 residents. This includes 2,029 vehicle crimes, 1,943 burglaries, and 1,234 bicycle thefts. The bicycle theft rate is especially significant given Hackney's high number of cyclists. For residents and homeowners, the data suggests that while personal safety in public is a primary concern, the risk to property and personal belongings—both at home and while out—is substantially higher than the UK average. proactive measures are essential to mitigate these risks in such a busy urban environment.

The crime trend in Hackney is currently stable, with a year-over-year decrease of 3.5%. Looking at the monthly data from Dec 2024 to Nov 2025, crime rates fluctuated significantly. The lowest rate was recorded in February 2025 at 9.9 per 1,000 people. However, the summer months saw a sharp increase, peaking in July 2025 at 14.7. This rise in crime during the warmer months is typical for urban areas with high levels of tourism and nightlife. Towards the end of the year, the rate stabilized around 12.0 to 12.9. While the overall trend is slightly downward, the high peaks in summer suggest that residents and visitors should be especially cautious during this period.

Hackney is situated in a high-crime corridor of East London. When compared to its neighbours, it often shows higher crime volumes. For instance, Haringey reports a rate of 138.1 per 1,000, which is lower than Hackney's 148.9. Other surrounding areas like Islington, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, and Newham also feature prominently in London's crime statistics, but Hackney remains one of the most active boroughs. The City of London also borders Hackney, presenting a very different, highly commercial crime profile. For those living in Hackney, this regional context highlights the importance of staying vigilant, as the borough is a major hub for both social activity and, unfortunately, criminal incidents.

In a borough like Hackney, where the property crime rate is a high 67.7 per 1,000 people, homeowners must take security seriously. Traditional security measures, such as basic CCTV or DIY doorbell cameras, are often insufficient in such a busy urban environment. These systems are reactive; they might show you a video of your bike being stolen or your door being forced, but they rarely stop the act. For real protection in Hackney, a proactive approach is necessary. scOS is an AI-powered security operating system that transforms your cameras into an intelligent defence network. It monitors your property's boundaries in real-time, distinguishing between normal activity and genuine threats. If an intruder is detected, scOS can autonomously activate deterrents like high-intensity lights and audio warnings. This immediate response is designed to stop a crime before it happens, making it the most effective way to protect your home and belongings in a high-risk area.

How To Keep Safe in Hackney

With violence and sexual offences and theft from the person being the most common crimes in Hackney, personal awareness in public spaces is critical. The borough's vibrant nightlife and busy markets are prime areas for opportunistic theft. Always keep your phone and wallet out of sight and be cautious when using your mobile near transport hubs or in crowded bars.

To enhance your safety across the Hackney local authority area:

1. Be particularly careful with your bicycle; use high-quality D-locks and try to park in well-lit, designated areas with high footfall.
2. When out at night in areas like Shoreditch or Dalston, stay with friends and use well-lit main roads to reach your destination.
3. Be aware of 'moped-enabled' crime, where thieves snatch bags or phones from the pavement; walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles.
4. Secure your home with more than just a standard lock; consider reinforced doors and window locks to deter burglars.
5. Report any suspicious activity to the local Safer Neighbourhood Team to help them target their patrols more effectively.