Islington Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Islington

Islington, with a population of 223,024, experiences an overall crime rate of 185.9 per 1,000 people annually. This figure is significantly higher than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. The property crime rate in Islington is 87.2 per 1,000, also above the national average of 33.2 per 1,000. The area's safety score is 61 out of 100, which is lower than the UK average safety score of 78/100, indicating a need for caution. Over the past year, the crime trend in Islington has remained stable, showing a 4.4% change year-over-year. This overview provides context for the more detailed crime statistics and patterns within the borough.

About Islington's Crime Statistics

Islington is a densely populated inner London borough, characterised by a mix of residential, commercial, and retail areas, alongside significant transport hubs such as Angel and Highbury & Islington stations. These urban characteristics contribute to its crime profile. The presence of numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and a vibrant nightlife, particularly in areas like Upper Street, can lead to higher instances of opportunistic theft and anti-social behaviour. A transient population, including commuters and visitors, also plays a role in the crime statistics. While a thriving economy brings opportunities, it can also attract certain types of crime, especially those related to property and personal belongings in busy public spaces. Understanding these factors helps to explain why Islington's crime rates differ from national averages.

Crime Type Analysis in Islington

In Islington, an analysis of crime types reveals that Anti-social behaviour is the most prevalent, accounting for 9,092 crimes or 21.9% of the total, with a rate of 40.8 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by Violence and sexual offences, which make up 19.7% of crimes with 8,156 incidents (36.6 per 1,000). Theft from the person is the third most common offence, with 4,328 crimes, representing 10.4% of the total and a rate of 19.4 per 1,000.

Property-related crime in Islington is a significant concern, with a combined rate of 87.2 per 1,000 people. This category includes burglary (7.8 per 1,000), theft from the person (19.4 per 1,000), other theft (17.6 per 1,000), shoplifting (14.4 per 1,000), vehicle crime (10.5 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (7.6 per 1,000), robbery (6.2 per 1,000), and bicycle theft (3.8 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these figures highlight the importance of vigilance, particularly in safeguarding personal belongings in public spaces and ensuring the security of properties and vehicles. The prevalence of theft-related offences suggests a need for proactive measures to deter opportunistic criminals.

Crime Trends in Islington

Islington's crime statistics indicate a stable trend, with a 4.4% change year-over-year when comparing the most recent 12-month period to the previous one. Examining the monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents, there have been some fluctuations. Rates were 16.4 in October 2024, dipping slightly to 14.8 in December 2024, before a slight rise to 15.1 in January 2025. February 2025 saw the lowest rate at 13.5 per 1,000, followed by an increase to 15.6 in March and a peak of 16.6 in May. The latter part of the year, from June to September 2025, shows rates generally hovering between 15.1 and 16.5 per 1,000. This stable trend suggests that while there isn't a significant increase or decrease in overall crime, residents should remain aware that crime levels have not seen a substantial reduction. Understanding these monthly patterns can help residents to be more mindful of potential risks throughout the year.

Comparison with Nearby Areas

When considering crime and safety in Islington, it is helpful to compare its statistics with neighbouring areas. Islington's overall crime rate of 185.9 per 1,000 is notably higher than the UK average. Nearby, the City of London, Hackney, Camden, Haringey, Westminster, and Tower Hamlets all present their own unique crime profiles. Given Islington's urban nature and high population density, it shares certain challenges with these central London boroughs, such as higher rates of theft and anti-social behaviour compared to more suburban or rural locations. For instance, Westminster, a major tourist and commercial hub, often experiences high rates of theft. Hackney and Camden, also densely populated and vibrant areas, contend with similar issues. Haringey and Tower Hamlets, while distinct, contribute to the regional context of crime within the capital. This comparison helps to provide a broader understanding of Islington's position within the wider London crime landscape for residents and those considering moving to the area.

Enhancing Protection in Islington

Given Islington's property crime rate of 87.2 per 1,000 residents, considering robust home security is a pertinent concern for homeowners and residents. While traditional security measures like CCTV cameras can record incidents, they often provide footage of a burglary rather than preventing it. For those seeking to genuinely deter criminals and prevent crime before it happens, a proactive approach to security is essential.

Modern, AI-powered home security operating systems like scOS are designed to offer a different level of protection. Instead of merely documenting a break-in, scOS detects threats at your property boundary, acting as a powerful deterrent. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures comprehensive coverage, watching all cameras simultaneously without missing a beat. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly identify fake plates, adding an extra layer of security. Furthermore, scOS learns your household routines, distinguishing between family, deliveries, and genuine threats, only alerting you when necessary. This autonomous response, which can include activating lights and engaging speakers, aims to destroy the element of surprise that burglars rely on. Most burglars decide within 60 seconds whether to proceed; visible, professional-grade deterrence makes them move on. While DIY systems have their place, professional solutions like scOS offer a significant advantage by intervening in real-time, fundamentally changing the game from recording crime to actively preventing it.