Mid Sussex Crime Rate

Mid Sussex is one of the safer districts in the UK, with an overall crime rate of 58.6 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the national average of 91.7. Reflecting this, the area achieves a high safety score of 87/100, well above the UK average of 79. The crime trend in Mid Sussex is currently stable, with a negligible 1.8% decrease over the past year. This consistency, combined with low crime volumes, makes it an attractive and secure location for residents. The following report provides a detailed breakdown of local crime statistics, property crime analysis, and practical safety advice for the Mid Sussex area.

Mid Sussex is an administrative district in West Sussex, predominantly characterised by its affluent residential areas and picturesque commuter towns like Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, and East Grinstead. The area's crime statistics are influenced by its high standard of living and strategic location within the London commuter belt. The proximity to major transport hubs, including Gatwick Airport and the M23 motorway, introduces a transient population that can impact crime figures, particularly regarding vehicle-related offences and theft.

The district's economy is robust, with significant employment in professional services, retail, and tourism, which helps maintain a stable social environment. However, the relative affluence of the area can make it a target for property-related crime such as burglary and vehicle theft. Population density varies from bustling urban centres to quiet rural villages, resulting in a diverse crime profile. Generally, Mid Sussex is considered a very safe and desirable place to live, with local authority initiatives focusing on maintaining community safety and addressing anti-social behaviour in town centres.

In Mid Sussex, violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type, accounting for 33.6% of all reported incidents, with a rate of 19.7 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour (20.6%) and criminal damage and arson (8.5%) are the next most frequent categories. These statistics suggest that social-related issues and opportunistic damage are the primary concerns for the local community.

Property crime in Mid Sussex is recorded at a rate of 18.9 per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 32.3. This includes shoplifting (4.0 per 1,000), other theft (3.8 per 1,000), vehicle crime (2.7 per 1,000), and burglary (2.4 per 1,000). For residents, this means that the statistical risk of property theft or a home break-in is much lower than in many other parts of the country. However, the presence of shoplifting and criminal damage in the top crime types suggests that both residential and commercial properties still benefit from consistent security awareness to deter opportunistic offences.

The crime trend in Mid Sussex is remarkably stable, with a slight decrease of just 1.8% year-over-year. Monthly data shows that the crime rate remained fairly consistent throughout the year, with a minor peak in July 2025 at 5.9 per 1,000 people and a low of 4.4 in December and February. This lack of significant fluctuation suggests that crime levels are well-controlled and that there are no emerging surges in criminal activity. For residents, this stability provides a predictable and secure environment. The consistent performance across the 12-month period reinforces Mid Sussex's reputation as a safe and reliable place to live, with local safety initiatives effectively maintaining the status quo.

Mid Sussex is a standout performer for safety in the region. When compared to the nearby urban centre of Crawley, Mid Sussex offers a much more tranquil and secure environment. It also shows lower crime activity than neighbouring Brighton and Hove. While surrounding areas like Horsham, Tandridge, Reigate and Banstead, and Mole Valley are also very safe, Mid Sussex's combination of a 58.6 crime rate and an 87/100 safety score places it among the most secure districts in the South East. This makes it a preferred choice for those who want proximity to major employment hubs and Gatwick Airport while enjoying a significantly safer residential setting.

While Mid Sussex enjoys a low property crime rate of 18.9 per 1,000 people, residents should not become complacent. Even in safe areas, opportunistic crimes like burglary and vehicle theft still occur, particularly in more affluent neighbourhoods. The limitation of traditional security, such as standard CCTV or DIY alarms, is that they are reactive. They might alert you that a crime has happened, but they rarely intervene to stop it.

For those seeking the highest level of protection, a proactive AI-powered system like scOS is the ideal solution. Unlike traditional cameras that just record, scOS uses multi-camera intelligence to watch your property 24/7. It can distinguish between a neighbour's cat and a potential intruder at the boundary. With features like DVLA vehicle verification and autonomous responses—such as activating lights or speakers—scOS destroys the element of surprise that burglars rely on. In an area as safe as Mid Sussex, a professional-grade system like scOS acts as a powerful deterrent, ensuring your home remains a low-risk target for opportunistic offenders.

How To Keep Safe in Mid Sussex

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Mid Sussex, representing nearly 34% of all reports. While the overall risk is low compared to national averages, personal safety remains a priority. When out in the district's larger towns like Haywards Heath or Burgess Hill, particularly in the evenings, it is wise to stay in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. If you are walking alone, keep your phone accessible but avoid being distracted by it.

With anti-social behaviour and criminal damage also featuring in the top crime types, being vigilant in public spaces is advised. Report any suspicious activity or intimidating behaviour to the local police to help them maintain the area's high safety standards. For homeowners, even with low burglary rates, ensuring that outbuildings and garages are securely locked is important, as these are often targets in more rural parts of the district. By following these simple regional safety tips, residents can help preserve the secure environment that Mid Sussex is known for.