Leeds Crime Rate

Leeds recorded a crime rate of 128.7 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This figure is higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a greater prevalence of criminal activity within the city. While fluctuations occur year-on-year, recent data indicates a slight stabilisation of crime rates, decreasing by 2.7% compared to the previous year. Understanding the nuances of these statistics is crucial for residents and visitors alike.

Leeds’s status as a major urban centre, with a diverse population of 845,189, contributes to its crime statistics. The city’s vibrant nightlife, extensive retail areas, and significant student population can create environments conducive to certain types of crime. Factors such as socioeconomic conditions within different neighbourhoods, the prevalence of transient populations, and the density of commercial activity all play a role in shaping the overall crime landscape. The varying levels of deprivation across the local authority district also impact reported crime levels, demonstrating a complex interplay of social and economic elements.

The most prevalent crimes in Leeds are violence and sexual offences, accounting for approximately 39.6% of all reported incidents (43,039 crimes). Shoplifting is also a significant concern, representing 9.5% of reported crimes (10,320 incidents), reflecting the city’s extensive retail sector. Anti-social behaviour accounts for 8.5% (9,259 crimes), highlighting challenges related to public order. Overall property crime, encompassing burglary, theft, and criminal damage, stands at a rate of 47.6 per 1,000 residents. This figure underscores the need for vigilance and preventative measures throughout the city.

While Leeds has seen a decrease in overall crime, certain trends warrant attention. The rise in online scams and cybercrime requires increased public awareness and preventative measures. Furthermore, the impact of socioeconomic factors on crime rates necessitates targeted interventions and support programs for vulnerable communities. Continuous monitoring of these trends is essential for proactive crime prevention strategies.

Compared to neighbouring local authority areas, Leeds’s crime rate is slightly higher than the average for West Yorkshire. While some surrounding areas experience lower levels of violent crime, Leeds’s density and commercial activity contribute to a higher incidence of shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. Understanding these comparative statistics can help residents and visitors contextualise the city’s safety profile.

Protecting yourself and your property in Leeds requires a layered approach. Homeowners should ensure doors and windows are secure, consider installing an alarm system, and be vigilant about neighbourhood watch schemes. For individuals, carrying personal alarms, avoiding isolated areas, and staying aware of their surroundings are essential preventative measures. Community engagement and proactive policing initiatives also play a vital role in maintaining safety and security throughout Leeds.

How To Keep Safe in Leeds

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, being aware of your surroundings, especially at night, is paramount. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas and consider using well-populated routes. Due to the high rate of shoplifting, be mindful of your belongings when shopping, particularly in crowded stores. Reporting suspicious activity to the police can help prevent further incidents. Finally, securing your home and belongings remains crucial to deter burglary and theft.