Merton Crime Rate

Merton is one of the safer boroughs in London, with an overall crime rate of 78.5 per 1,000 people. This figure is comfortably below the UK average of 91.6, contributing to a high safety score of 83/100. The crime trend in Merton is currently stable, showing a minor 3.4% decrease over the past year. While personal safety scores are high, the property crime rate of 30.8 per 1,000 is close to the national average of 32.2. This suggests that while Merton is generally secure, residents should be mindful of property and vehicle security. The following data provides a comprehensive look at the crime dynamics across the Merton local authority area.

About Merton

Merton is a London borough in South West London, comprising a mix of affluent residential areas, busy commercial centres, and significant green spaces. The borough includes Wimbledon, famous for its tennis championships, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and creates a unique temporary crime profile. Merton is generally considered a suburban borough, but it contains major transport hubs and retail districts like Morden, Colliers Wood, and Wimbledon town centre.

The area is primarily residential, with a diverse population and a range of housing types from grand villas to high-density estates. The borough's transport links to central London via the Northern Line and national rail services make it a popular choice for commuters. Merton's crime statistics are influenced by its residential nature, but its commercial areas and the seasonal influx of visitors during major events like the Wimbledon Championships contribute to local crime patterns, particularly in categories like theft and anti-social behaviour. Understanding Merton's crime rate requires acknowledging this balance between its suburban appeal and its role as a key part of the London conurbation.

Crime Breakdown in Merton

In Merton, the most frequent crime categories are violence and sexual offences, representing 28.0% of all reports, followed by anti-social behaviour at 21.4% and shoplifting at 9.0%. The high rate of anti-social behaviour is a common feature in many London boroughs and often relates to public order issues in busier commercial and transport hubs.

Property crime is a major focus for local residents and homeowners, with a combined rate of 30.8 per 1,000 people. This includes burglary, vehicle crime, and various forms of theft. Vehicle crime is a notable issue, occurring at a rate of 5.9 per 1,000 and accounting for 7.6% of total crime. Burglary, while representing 4.4% of total crime, remains a primary concern for the community, with 761 incidents recorded over the year. The borough's high property values and its position as a desirable residential area can make it a target for opportunistic property offences, necessitating robust security measures for both homes and vehicles.

Crime Trends in Merton

The crime trend in Merton is currently classified as stable, with a minor 3.4% decrease in total offences over the last 12 months. This indicates a consistent safety environment for residents. Monthly data throughout 2025 shows a steady pattern, with the crime rate per 1,000 people mostly fluctuating between 5.7 and 7.7.

The lowest activity was recorded in February (5.7) and September (6.0), while the peak occurred in July (7.7). This slight increase in the summer months is common in many London boroughs and often relates to higher footfall and seasonal events like the Wimbledon Championships. The lack of significant spikes suggests that Merton does not suffer from extreme volatility in its crime levels. For residents, this stability provides a predictable environment, though the property crime rate remains a factor that requires ongoing attention to home and vehicle security.

Merton is surrounded by a diverse range of neighbouring London boroughs. To the south, Sutton has a similar crime rate of 76.0 per 1,000. To the north and east, boroughs like Wandsworth and Lambeth typically face higher crime challenges. Other nearby areas like Kingston upon Thames and Richmond upon Thames also offer competitive safety profiles. Merton's rate of 78.5 per 1,000 remains excellent for a London borough, making it a highly desirable residential choice for those who seek a safer, more stable environment while maintaining excellent connectivity to central London.

Home Security and Protection in Merton

Merton's property crime rate of 30.8 per 1,000 highlights a specific need for high-quality home protection. In an area where burglary and vehicle crime are key concerns, traditional security measures often fall short. A standard alarm or a basic doorbell camera can tell you that a crime has happened, but they rarely prevent it.

For Merton residents, moving from reactive to proactive security is the most effective way to safeguard their homes. scOS is an AI-powered operating system that monitors your property's boundaries in real-time. Unlike conventional systems, scOS uses multi-camera intelligence to distinguish between normal activity and potential threats. By identifying threats early, scOS can autonomously trigger deterrents like lighting and audio warnings before a break-in occurs. In a borough where high property values can attract opportunistic offenders, scOS’s ability to recognise routines and verify vehicle plates provides a level of sophisticated protection that matches the premium nature of Merton's residential areas.

How To Keep Safe in Merton

Violence and sexual offences are the most commonly reported crimes in the Merton area, making up 28% of all incidents. While the borough is generally safe, taking proactive steps to ensure personal safety is always recommended for residents and visitors alike.

When moving around the borough, particularly in busier commercial areas or near transport hubs like Wimbledon or Morden stations, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. If you are out late in the evening, try to travel in groups and stick to well-lit main roads. For those concerned about anti-social behaviour, which is also prevalent, engaging with local neighbourhood watch schemes can provide valuable up-to-date information on specific trends in your immediate area. Finally, ensure that your home and vehicle are always secure, and avoid leaving any valuables on display, as opportunistic property crime remains a factor. Community engagement and staying informed are your best tools for staying safe in Merton.