Steyning Crime Rate

Steyning's crime profile is defined by stark contrasts. While its overall crime rate is 33.6% below the UK average, shoplifting remains 155% above national levels. This duality reflects the area's mix of retail activity and strong community policing. The 10.7% year-on-year decrease in crime suggests effective local interventions, though the sharp 200% rise in drugs offences warrants attention.

Steyning is a built-up area within Horsham, characterised by a mix of residential and commercial properties. Its proximity to major transport links and a focus on retail may contribute to elevated shoplifting rates. The area's relatively low property crime rate suggests a strong sense of community and effective local policing, though the sharp rise in drug-related offences warrants further scrutiny.

Steyning's most striking crime statistic is its shoplifting rate, which is 155% above the UK average (19.1 vs 7.5 per 1,000). This likely reflects the area's retail density and the transient nature of some populations. In contrast, violence and sexual offences are 55% below the UK average, possibly due to the absence of high-risk nightlife venues. Anti-social behaviour also remains 46% below the UK average, suggesting effective community engagement. Public order crimes, though slightly elevated, are minimal compared to national trends. The sharp 200% YoY increase in drugs offences is concerning, though still below the UK average, and may indicate shifts in local drug markets or enforcement patterns.

Steyning's crime rate has decreased by 10.7% YoY, reflecting a downward trend in most categories. However, drugs offences have surged by 200%, though they remain 80% below the UK average. This sharp increase may indicate shifts in local drug markets or enforcement patterns. Violence and sexual offences have decreased by 18.1%, while shoplifting has risen by 7.1%. The monthly trend shows a peak in June 2025 (13.8 per 1,000/month), likely linked to summer tourism and increased outdoor activity.

How To Keep Safe in Steyning

Residents should prioritise securing parcels left on doorsteps, as shoplifting remains 155% above the UK average. Avoid leaving valuables in gardens or unlocked sheds. For public order concerns, report disturbances to local authorities promptly. Vehicle crime peaks overnight, so park in well-lit areas and use security features like alarms. Community engagement remains a key factor in maintaining Steyning's overall safety profile.

Crime in Steyning follows distinct daily patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), aligning with retail activity and potential shoplifting opportunities. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), likely due to unsecured parking areas. Other crimes dominate overnight hours, suggesting isolated incidents rather than sustained activity. Weekends see elevated vehicle crime, particularly on Saturdays, which may correlate with increased traffic and transient populations.

Steyning's crime rate (60.4 per 1,000) is 234% higher than Bramber (18.1 per 1,000) and 118% higher than Upper Beeding (27.7 per 1,000). Bramber's significantly lower rate likely reflects its smaller population and reduced retail density. Upper Beeding's higher crime rate may correlate with its proximity to more transient populations.

For Steyning residents, proactive perimeter security is essential given the 155% above-average shoplifting rate, scOS's AI-powered boundary detection identifies potential threats before they reach your property, triggering lighting and audio deterrents. The system distinguishes between household members and unknown figures, reducing false alarms. Its ethernet-based cameras avoid Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, a critical feature in an area where opportunistic crime remains a concern.