Merthyr Tydfil Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil records an overall crime rate of 111.2 per 1,000 residents per year. This figure is higher than the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000. The area achieves a safety score of 75 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average safety score of 78 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety compared to the national picture. In terms of recent trends, Merthyr Tydfil has experienced a stable period, with a slight decrease of 4.4% in total crimes year-over-year. This introduction sets the context for a more detailed examination of crime patterns and safety considerations within the Merthyr Tydfil area.

About Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil is a historic market town and local authority district in South Wales, known for its industrial heritage, particularly coal and iron. Today, it is a predominantly urban area nestled within a valley landscape, transitioning from its industrial past with ongoing regeneration efforts. The town serves as a significant retail and administrative centre for the surrounding communities, attracting both residents and visitors.

Several characteristics contribute to its crime statistics. As an urban centre, Merthyr Tydfil experiences a higher population density and often a more transient population compared to rural areas, which can sometimes correlate with elevated crime rates, particularly in categories like anti-social behaviour and shoplifting due to commercial activity. Major transport hubs, such as the A470, connect the area, potentially facilitating movement for both residents and those with criminal intent. Economic factors, including historical shifts in industry, can also play a role in shaping the social landscape and, consequently, crime rates. The presence of nightlife and various public amenities also contributes to the dynamics of public order offences and violence. Understanding these multifaceted elements provides insight into why Merthyr Tydfil exhibits its current crime rate and safety score.

Crime Type Analysis

An analysis of crime types in Merthyr Tydfil reveals that the three most significant categories are violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and shoplifting. Violence and sexual offences account for a substantial 39.8 per 1,000 residents, representing 35.8% of all recorded crimes. Anti-social behaviour follows with 16.0 per 1,000 residents, making up 14.4% of the total, while shoplifting stands at 11.4 per 1,000 residents, comprising 10.3% of all offences. These figures indicate that residents are most likely to encounter issues related to personal safety and public order.

Property-related crime in Merthyr Tydfil registers at 36.8 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category encompasses a range of offences including burglary (2.9 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (9.8 per 1,000), other theft (6.0 per 1,000), and vehicle crime (5.6 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these statistics highlight the importance of securing personal belongings and properties to mitigate risks associated with theft and damage.

Crime Trends in Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil has experienced a stable crime trend over the last year, with a 4.4% decrease in total crimes year-over-year. This indicates a positive, albeit modest, improvement in the overall crime situation. Analysing the monthly crime rate data per 1,000 residents, there have been fluctuations. For instance, the crime rate saw a notable dip in December 2024 (7.4) and September 2025 (8.2), suggesting periods of lower criminal activity. Conversely, peaks were observed in March 2025 (10.4) and July 2025 (10.6), indicating specific months where crime rates were higher. These patterns suggest that while the long-term trend is stable, residents should remain aware of potential monthly variations in local crime levels.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To provide regional context, Merthyr Tydfil's crime statistics can be compared with several nearby local authority districts. With an overall crime rate of 111.2 per 1,000 and a safety score of 75/100, Merthyr Tydfil sits above the UK average crime rate but slightly below the national average safety score. For comparison, areas such as Blaenau Gwent, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly, Torfaen, Bridgend, and Neath Port Talbot all contribute to the regional crime landscape. Understanding how Merthyr Tydfil compares to these neighbouring areas helps residents gauge local safety within a broader context. While specific crime rates for these areas are not provided here, a general understanding of regional dynamics is crucial for a complete picture of safety.

Enhancing Your Security

Given Merthyr Tydfil's property crime rate of 36.8 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average, proactive home security measures are highly advisable. Traditional security solutions, such as standard CCTV cameras, often only provide footage after a burglary has occurred, acting as a reactive recording device rather than a preventative one. For true peace of mind, consider moving beyond merely documenting crime to actively preventing it.

Advanced systems, like the scOS AI-powered home security operating system, offer a professional-grade alternative by focusing on proactive protection. Instead of notifying you after an intrusion, scOS detects threats at your property boundary using multi-camera intelligence, meaning it watches all cameras simultaneously without ever blinking. This allows for real-time intervention, where lights can activate and speakers engage to destroy the element of surprise, often causing potential intruders to move on. Professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, making that crucial 60-second decision for burglars an easy one: they will likely decide your property is too much effort. While DIY systems have their place, if you seek comprehensive, preventative security that intervenes before crime happens, solutions like scOS offer a distinct advantage over reactive recording.