Huddersfield Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Huddersfield

Huddersfield, with a population of 143,774, reports an overall crime rate of 121.8 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is notably higher than the national average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a greater incidence of crime compared to many other areas across the UK. The area achieves a safety score of 69 out of 100, which, while above average, is still below the UK average safety score of 78. In terms of recent activity, Huddersfield has experienced a stable crime trend, showing a minor decrease of 3.6% 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.

Crime Breakdown in Huddersfield

An analysis of crime types in Huddersfield reveals that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 7,923 incidents, or 55.1 per 1,000 residents, representing 45.2% of all crimes. This is followed by public order offences with 1,716 reported crimes (11.9 per 1,000), and anti-social behaviour with 1,359 incidents (9.4 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 Huddersfield, the property crime rate stands at 34.3 per 1,000 people per year, which is slightly higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This suggests that residents may face a marginally elevated risk regarding crimes directly impacting their homes and possessions. Specific figures show 682 burglaries (4.7 per 1,000) and 647 vehicle crimes (4.5 per 1,000), highlighting areas where vigilance remains important for local residents.

Crime Trends in Huddersfield

Huddersfield has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a slight decrease of 3.6% 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 10.9 in October 2024 and generally remaining within a similar range. There was a noticeable dip in February 2025, reaching 9.0 per 1,000, before rising again in March and April to 10.5 and 11.1 respectively. The summer months of May and June saw rates of 11.1 and 11.0, suggesting a slight increase during this period, before stabilising around 10.3 and 10.4 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.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Huddersfield

Crime patterns in Huddersfield show distinct variations throughout the day, influenced by the rhythms of urban life. During the morning hours (6am - 12pm), theft-related offences are prominent, accounting for 50% of crimes, likely coinciding with the opening of commercial areas and increased public activity. The afternoon (12pm - 6pm) sees a similar trend, with theft remaining dominant at 52%, reflecting peak shopping hours and busy streets. As evening approaches (6pm - 12am), the crime landscape shifts significantly; other crime types become the most frequent at 46%, while theft drops to 24%, suggesting a change in activity as nightlife begins. Night-time (12am - 6am) presents a different risk profile, with vehicle crime peaking at 35% and burglary at 23%, indicating that properties are more vulnerable when residents are typically asleep and streets are quieter. These patterns highlight the importance of tailored vigilance depending on the time of day.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When considering Huddersfield's crime statistics, comparing them to nearby areas provides valuable regional context. Huddersfield, as a larger urban settlement within Kirklees, has an overall crime rate of 121.8 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average. Nearby Netherton (Kirklees), Kirkheaton, Scapegoat Hill, and Elland offer a diverse comparison. Generally, smaller, more residential areas like Kirkheaton and Scapegoat Hill might typically experience lower crime rates compared to Huddersfield due to differences in population density, commercial activity, and nightlife. Elland, a slightly larger town, might have a crime profile more akin to some of Huddersfield's suburban areas. Understanding these local variations helps residents contextualise Huddersfield's safety score of 69/100 and provides a clearer picture of regional safety.

Protecting Your Property in Huddersfield

Given Huddersfield's property crime rate of 34.3 per 1,000 people, which is slightly above the UK average, residents may 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.