Merton Crime Rate

The urban settlement of Merton is one of the safer areas in London, with an overall crime rate of 78.4 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 urban area.

Crime Breakdown in Merton

In the urban settlement of 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 urban areas 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 area'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 rate in Merton is currently stable, with a minor 3.4% decrease in total offences year-over-year. This consistency is reflected in the monthly data for 2025, where the crime rate per 1,000 people remained within a range of 5.7 to 7.7 throughout the year. This suggests a well-managed security environment without the extreme volatility seen in some other London areas.

The year saw its highest activity in July (7.7), while the lowest rates were recorded in February (5.7) and September (6.0). This fluctuation is common and often relates to seasonal events or changes in footfall. However, the steady rates for most of the year indicate a consistent and stable safety profile. For residents, these consistently low figures and the overall stable trend provide a high degree of reassurance, confirming Merton's reputation as a safe and stable environment compared to many other parts of London.

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 area is generally safe, taking proactive steps to ensure personal safety is always recommended for residents and visitors alike.

When moving around the area, 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.

Crime Timing in Merton

Crime in Merton follows a distinct daily rhythm. The morning and afternoon (6am - 6pm) are key periods for theft and shoplifting, accounting for 45-48% of all such crimes occurring during these hours. This suggests that offenders target personal property and retail businesses when activity is at its highest.

As the day transitions into night, the crime profile shifts significantly. During the night (12am - 6am), vehicle crime becomes the dominant concern, accounting for a staggering 48% of all offences reported in the early hours. This highlights a clear vulnerability for vehicles parked on streets and driveways overnight. Evening hours (6pm - 12am) see a rise in 'other' crimes, including anti-social behaviour and public order offences. By understanding these patterns—daytime for personal theft and night-time for vehicle security—residents can take more effective, targeted precautions to protect their property and maintain the area's high safety standards.

Merton is surrounded by a diverse range of neighbouring urban areas. To the north, Wandsworth has a higher crime rate of 101.3 per 1,000. To the west, Kingston upon Thames is at 89.8. Other nearby areas like Sutton (77.8) and Worcester Park (34.5) offer different safety profiles. Merton's rate of 78.4 per 1,000 remains excellent for a London urban area, 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 an area 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.