Hackney Crime Rate

Hackney recorded a crime rate of 145.5 incidents per 1,000 residents between February 2025 and January 2026. This rate is significantly above the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, highlighting a higher risk of crime compared to the national average. Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type, with a rate of 32.2 per 1,000, while anti-social behaviour also remains a significant concern. While the overall crime rate has remained stable with a slight decrease of 1.1% year-on-year, certain crime categories, such as drugs offences, have seen an increase, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and preventative measures.

Hackney exhibits a concerning crime profile, with Violence and sexual offences being the most prevalent, accounting for 32.2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. This is in line with the UK average, but the sheer volume of cases remains a significant concern. Following closely is Anti-social behaviour (29.3 per 1,000), exceeding the UK average by a substantial 98%. Theft from the person is also alarmingly high, at 15.8 per 1,000, significantly higher than the national average (775% above). Overall property crime in Hackney stands at 65.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, also above the UK average. The combination of these factors contributes to Hackney’s overall elevated crime rate and necessitates proactive preventative measures.

Overall, crime in Hackney has remained stable with a slight decrease of 1.1% year-on-year between February 2025 and January 2026. However, this stability masks concerning trends within specific crime categories. While Vehicle crime has decreased by 19.9%, Drugs offences have increased by 46.9%, and Possession of weapons has risen by 45.9%. This suggests that while some areas of crime are being managed, others require more focused intervention and preventative strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Hackney

With a crime rate of 145.5 per 1,000 residents, staying aware and taking precautions is important in Hackney. Be particularly mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, due to the prevalence of theft from the person. Violence and sexual offences are also significant concerns, so avoid walking alone late at night and stick to well-lit, populated routes. Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately – don't hesitate. Consider joining a local neighbourhood watch group to connect with your community and share safety information. Secure your home and valuables; ensure doors and windows are locked. Be cautious of strangers and trust your instincts – if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself. Utilize reputable taxi services or public transport, and be aware of your surroundings. Stay informed about local crime trends through the Metropolitan Police website and social media.

Crime in Hackney tends to follow a pattern influenced by daily routines. During the morning and afternoon hours, theft and vehicle crime are more common, likely linked to commercial activity. As evening approaches, violence and anti-social behaviour increase, particularly during weekends. Overnight, vehicle crime experiences a spike, suggesting opportunistic targeting. Understanding these patterns can inform personal safety precautions and security planning.

Hackney’s crime rate is higher than several neighbouring local authorities. Tower Hamlets has a crime rate of 134.3 per 1,000, presenting a slightly safer alternative. However, the City of London has a dramatically higher rate at 1169.6 per 1,000, illustrating a stark contrast in crime levels across the region.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred. Consider a proactive approach with scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system. scOS detects threats at your property boundary, utilizing multi-camera intelligence and DVLA vehicle verification to identify and neutralize potential risks before they escalate. Most burglars decide within 60 seconds; scOS's visible deterrence can make them move on, preventing the crime altogether.