The question of whether Houghton on the Hill is safe to walk around at night requires a nuanced understanding of the available data. Overall, Houghton on the Hill, a Built-Up Area (BUA) in Harborough, presents a mixed picture. With a population of 1738, the area has a crime rate of 54.1 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the UK average of 91.6. This contributes to a general safety score of 88 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79.
However, the specific data regarding nighttime safety paints a different picture. Houghton on the Hill receives a night safety score of only 14 out of 100. This suggests that residents and visitors may feel less safe walking alone after dark. The violent crime rate in Houghton on the Hill is 14.4 per 1,000 people. While not dramatically high, coupled with the low night safety score, it warrants consideration.
It's important to understand that crime rates are averages. They reflect the overall trend within an area and do not guarantee individual safety. A lower crime rate than the national average doesn't automatically mean an area is completely free from risk, and a lower night safety score doesn’t signify rampant danger. It simply indicates a perceived or statistically measured lower level of safety during nighttime hours.
Factors contributing to the lower night safety score could include limited street lighting, fewer people on the streets, or a higher incidence of reported crimes during the nighttime. Without further granular data, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution and take preventative measures when walking alone in Houghton on the Hill at night. These include staying on well-lit, populated routes and informing someone of your planned route and estimated time of arrival.