Downham Market Crime Rate

Downham Market Crime Overview

Downham Market is one of the safest towns in Norfolk, with an overall crime rate of 49.7 per 1,000 people. This is substantially lower than the UK national average of 91.6, earning the town an excellent safety score of 89/100. The area is significantly safer than the UK average safety score of 79/100. Furthermore, Downham Market is experiencing a strong downward trend in crime, with a 15.9% decrease in total offences over the past year. This suggests that the town is not only safe but continues to improve. With its 13,836 residents, the town offers a secure, community-focused environment. The following sections provide a deeper look into specific crime types and the times they are most likely to occur.

Crime Breakdown in Downham Market

Downham Market presents a relatively low crime profile, with violence and sexual offences being the most common category, accounting for 33.2% of all reports (228 incidents). Anti-social behaviour is the second most frequent issue at 19.8%, followed by criminal damage and arson at 10.5%. For property owners, the overall property crime rate is 16.0 per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 32.2. This property crime figure includes 11 burglaries, 17 vehicle crimes, and 57 shoplifting incidents. While these numbers are low, the presence of criminal damage and theft highlights the need for continued vigilance. Homeowners in Downham Market benefit from a safe environment, but taking basic security precautions remains important to protect against the 221 property-related offences that occur annually.

Crime Trends in Downham Market

The crime data for Downham Market shows a very positive trend, with a 15.9% year-over-year decrease in total offences. Analysis of the 2025 monthly data reveals that the crime rate reached its lowest points in February and December, both at 3.3 per 1,000 people. There was a notable peak in May at 5.6, followed by a general decline throughout the summer and autumn. The significant drop in crime over the year indicates that Downham Market is becoming increasingly safe. For residents, these statistics reflect a town that is successfully managing its security and maintaining its reputation as a peaceful place to live.

How To Keep Safe in Downham Market

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Downham Market, though the overall numbers are low. To maintain your personal safety in the town, consider the following advice:

1. When walking through the town centre at night, stick to well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. The town is generally quiet, but staying visible is always a good precaution.
2. Be mindful of your belongings during the afternoon (12pm-6pm), as this is the peak time for theft-related offences in the town's commercial areas.
3. Report any anti-social behaviour to the local police. ASB makes up nearly 20% of local crime, and community reporting helps keep the town's streets pleasant for everyone.
4. Ensure your home's exterior is well-lit. Simple measures like motion-sensor lights can be a great deterrent for the small number of opportunistic offences that occur.
5. If you are a business owner, be aware that shoplifting is most common during the afternoon hours. Having visible security can help reduce these incidents.

Crime Timing in Downham Market

Crime in Downham Market follows a predictable daily cycle. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) is the peak time for theft, which accounts for 55% of all recorded offences during this period. This is likely linked to the town's retail and commercial activity. As evening approaches (6pm-12am), there is a shift toward anti-social behaviour and public order offences, which make up 63% of reports. Night-time (12am-6am) sees a higher proportion of burglary (11%) and vehicle crime (23%) relative to other offences, although the total number of incidents remains low. This data suggests that while daytime concerns are focused on retail theft, property and vehicle security are more relevant during the night. Residents can use this information to better secure their homes and cars during the most vulnerable hours.

Nearby Area Comparison

In comparison to its immediate rural neighbours, Downham Market has a higher crime rate, which is expected for a market town serving as a local hub. Surrounding villages like Denver, Wimbotsham, Barroway Drove, and Stow Bridge all report crime rates of 0.0 per 1,000 people. While these rural parishes are exceptionally quiet, Downham Market's rate of 49.7 is still very low by national standards. For those looking for a balance between town amenities and a high level of safety, Downham Market compares very favourably to larger urban areas in the region, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere despite its status as a central settlement.

Home Security in Downham Market

The property crime rate in Downham Market is a low 16.0 per 1,000 people, reflecting the town's generally secure nature. However, with 221 property-related offences occurring annually, residents should not be complacent. Traditional security systems like standard CCTV are reactive, meaning they only provide evidence after a crime has been committed. For those who want to ensure their home remains one of the safest in the area, a proactive approach is recommended.

scOS is an AI-powered security operating system that focuses on prevention rather than just recording. It monitors your property's boundaries in real-time, identifying potential threats before they reach your door. If an intruder is detected, scOS can autonomously activate deterrents like lights and speakers, removing the element of surprise. This proactive stance is highly effective; most opportunistic criminals will move on if they realise they have been spotted by an intelligent system. For Downham Market residents, scOS offers the highest level of protection, ensuring that the town's low burglary rate remains a reality for their own homes.