Medway Crime Rate

Medway's crime rate of 104.3 per 1,000 residents in 2026 is 14.6% above the UK average, yet the area maintains a 'VERY_SAFE' score of 76/100. This apparent contradiction highlights the complexity of the local profile: while certain crime types like 'Other crime' are elevated, overall trends remain stable. The 36.3% surge in robbery and persistent anti-social behaviour in urban centres contrast with lower rates of burglary and vehicle crime, offering a nuanced picture of safety in this diverse local authority.

Medway is a diverse area with a mix of urban and rural characteristics, including historic towns like Chatham and Rochester, as well as newer developments in areas like Cliffe Woods. Its crime profile reflects this duality: while rural parts like Cliffe Woods have much lower crime rates, urban centres face higher incidents of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. The area's proximity to major transport links, such as the M2 and A2, may contribute to higher vehicle crime rates in commuter zones. Meanwhile, the presence of retail and leisure hubs in towns like Gillingham and Rochester likely explains elevated shoplifting and public order offences. Economic factors, such as higher unemployment in certain sub-areas, may also play a role in sustaining anti-social behaviour rates above the UK average. The stability of the overall crime rate, despite some increases in specific categories, suggests a balance between urban pressures and the relative safety of rural pockets.

The most surprising finding in Medway's crime data is the 49% elevation in 'Other crime' compared to the UK average. This category, which includes a range of less-specific offences, is likely driven by the area's mix of urban and rural environments, where unregulated activity in semi-derelict properties or transient populations may contribute. Anti-social behaviour, 34% above the UK average, is likely tied to Medway's urban centres, where higher population density and social mixing can lead to disputes and public disturbances. Criminal damage and arson, 37% above the UK average, may be linked to older housing stock in some areas, where neglect or targeted vandalism is more common. Vehicle crime is 7% below the UK average, due to lower concentrations of commercial vehicle parking compared to other urban areas. However, the 36.3% rise in robbery over the past year remains concerning, reflecting increased opportunism in high-traffic zones during peak hours.

Crime in Medway has remained stable overall (-2.3% year-on-year), but certain trends stand out. Robbery has surged by 36.3% compared to 2025, likely driven by increased opportunism in high-traffic zones during peak hours. This rise contrasts with declines in other areas, such as burglary (-25%) and theft from the person (-19.9%), which may reflect improved policing or community initiatives. Monthly trends show a clear seasonal pattern, with crime peaking in May 2025 (9.9 per 1,000/month) and reaching its lowest in February 2026 (7.6 per 1,000/month). This pattern may be influenced by longer evenings and increased outdoor activity during the spring, as well as the timing of university term breaks in nearby areas.

Compared to nearby areas, Medway's crime rate is 73% higher than Castle Point (60.3 per 1,000) but 4% lower than Southend-on-Sea (108.0 per 1,000). The stark contrast between Medway and Rochford (48.0 per 1,000) likely reflects differences in urbanization and economic activity, with Rochford's lower crime rate possibly tied to its more rural character and smaller population.

For Medway households, where 'Other crime' (3.0 per 1,000, 49% above UK average) is a significant concern, proactive security systems like scOS can help mitigate risk. Its AI-powered boundary detection identifies potential threats near properties, such as loitering individuals or suspicious vehicles, and triggers automated lighting and speaker alerts to deter intruders. DVLA vehicle verification is particularly relevant in Medway, where vehicle crime is slightly below average but 'Other crime' remains elevated. By integrating real-time monitoring with cloud recording, scOS offers a proactive approach to securing homes in an area where opportunistic crimes are more prevalent.

How To Keep Safe in Medway

Residents in Medway should prioritize securing properties against 'Other crime' (49% above UK average), which includes a range of less-specific offences. Ensure homes have robust lighting and consider using motion-activated cameras in high-traffic areas. For vehicle security, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, especially in areas near transport hubs like the M2. Anti-social behaviour, 34% above UK average, is more common in urban centres, so be mindful of public spaces and report disturbances promptly. In areas with elevated criminal damage and arson (37% above UK average), avoid leaving garden tools or flammable materials outside. Community engagement through Neighbourhood Watch can also help maintain the area's relatively high safety score.