Kirklees Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Kirklees

Kirklees, with a population of 447,847, reports an overall crime rate of 100.1 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is slightly above the national average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a marginally higher incidence of crime compared to other areas across the UK. The area achieves a safety score of 75 out of 100, which is respectable, though slightly below the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent activity, Kirklees has experienced a stable crime trend, showing a minor decrease of 3.7% year-over-year. This stability suggests that while crime levels are consistent, there has been a slight positive shift in the past year, offering a nuanced picture of safety for residents.

About Kirklees

Kirklees is a large metropolitan borough in West Yorkshire, encompassing a diverse landscape from bustling urban centres like Huddersfield and Dewsbury to quieter suburban and rural communities. Its varied characteristics contribute significantly to its crime statistics. The presence of major transport hubs, a mixed residential and commercial infrastructure, and a substantial student population in areas like Huddersfield can influence crime patterns, particularly related to theft and anti-social behaviour. Economic factors, including areas of deprivation alongside more affluent neighbourhoods, can also play a role in the overall crime rate. The high population density in its towns, coupled with a transient population in some areas, creates a complex environment that shapes the local crime landscape and safety perceptions.

Crime Breakdown in Kirklees

An analysis of crime types in Kirklees reveals that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 20,030 incidents, or 44.7 per 1,000 residents, representing 44.7% of all crimes. This is followed by anti-social behaviour with 4,197 reported crimes (9.4 per 1,000), and public order offences with 4,150 incidents (9.3 per 1,000). These three categories collectively form a significant portion of the area's criminal activity.

Property-related crime, a key concern for residents and homeowners, combines several categories including burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, other theft, and shoplifting. In Kirklees, the property crime rate stands at 28.8 per 1,000 people per year, which is notably lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This suggests that while overall crime is slightly higher, residents may face a comparatively lower risk regarding crimes directly impacting their homes and possessions. However, specific figures show 1,856 burglaries (4.1 per 1,000) and 2,164 vehicle crimes (4.8 per 1,000), highlighting areas where vigilance remains important for local residents.

Crime Trends in Kirklees

Kirklees has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a slight decrease of 3.7% year-over-year. This indicates a consistent, albeit gently declining, level of criminal activity. Examining the monthly trend data provides further insight into these patterns. The crime rate per 1,000 residents fluctuated throughout the year, starting at 8.8 in October 2024 and generally remaining within a similar range. There was a noticeable dip in February 2025, reaching 6.9 per 1,000, before rising again in March and April to 8.6 and 8.5 respectively. The summer months of May and June saw rates of 8.9 and 9.1, suggesting a slight increase during this period, before stabilising around 8.6 per 1,000 towards September 2025. This overall stability, despite minor monthly variations, suggests that residents can expect a largely consistent crime environment, with no significant escalations or drastic improvements in the immediate past year.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When comparing Kirklees to its neighbouring local authority districts, a broader regional context for crime rates emerges. Kirklees’s overall crime rate of 100.1 per 1,000 residents is slightly higher than the national average. In comparison, nearby Calderdale, Barnsley, Oldham, Bradford, Wakefield, and Rochdale present a diverse picture. For instance, Calderdale and Bradford, being significant urban centres, may exhibit different crime profiles due to their varied populations and economic activities. Barnsley and Wakefield, while also urban, might share some socio-economic characteristics with parts of Kirklees. Rochdale and Oldham, further west, provide additional benchmarks for regional comparison. Understanding these regional variations can help residents contextualise Kirklees's safety score of 75/100. While some neighbouring areas might have lower or higher overall crime rates, Kirklees maintains a moderate position, offering a benchmark for those evaluating the broader safety landscape of West Yorkshire.

Protecting Your Property in Kirklees

Given Kirklees's property crime rate of 28.8 per 1,000 people, which is below the UK average, residents may still wish to consider robust home security measures. Traditional security systems often provide footage after a burglary has occurred, acting reactively rather than proactively. If you are seeking real protection, consider systems designed to prevent crime before it happens. AI-powered home security operating systems, such as scOS, offer a different approach by detecting threats at your property boundary, not just at the point of entry.

These advanced systems leverage multi-camera intelligence to monitor all areas simultaneously, identifying potential intruders without human error. Features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly flag suspicious vehicles with fake plates, while pattern learning distinguishes between family, deliveries, and genuine threats, reducing false alarms. The goal is to deter criminals within their crucial 60-second decision-making window. With autonomous responses like activating lights and engaging speakers, scOS aims to destroy the element of surprise, making burglars move on. Investing in professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, moving beyond simply recording a crime to actively preventing it.