Monmouthshire Crime Rate

Monmouthshire recorded a crime rate of 40.6 per 1,000 residents in February 2026, 55% below the UK average. This exceptionally low rate, combined with a safety score of 91/100, positions it as one of the UK’s most secure areas. While violence and sexual offences remain the most common category, their incidence is 56% below the national average, highlighting a unique balance of community safety and proactive policing.

Monmouthshire’s diverse landscape—ranging from the historic town of Abergavenny to the rural tranquility of the Usk Valley—shapes its crime profile. Abergavenny’s higher crime rate (58.9 per 1,000) likely reflects its role as a tourist hub, where transient populations may contribute to anti-social behaviour and public order incidents. Conversely, rural areas like Gilwern (16.9 per 1,000) experience lower crime due to sparse populations and limited opportunities for property crime. Monmouth, the largest town, sees a 12% higher rate than the overall average, possibly due to its role as a commercial and administrative centre, attracting more foot traffic and associated petty crime.

The most surprising finding is that violence and sexual offences, though the most common category (34.6% of all crimes), remain 56% below the UK average. This suggests effective community policing and strong social cohesion. Anti-social behaviour (19.0% of crimes) is 48% below the national average, likely due to Monmouthshire’s emphasis on Neighbourhood Watch schemes. Public order incidents (10.4% of crimes) are 33% below the UK average, possibly linked to the area’s low population density and limited nightlife. Vehicle crime, at 3.3% of all crimes, is 71% below the UK average, reflecting sparse commuter traffic and secure rural parking infrastructure.

Crime in Monmouthshire has decreased by -49.4% year-on-year, with a sharp decline in burglary (-65.6%) and vehicle crime (-55.1%). Monthly data reveals a seasonal pattern, peaking in July 2025 (7.8 per 1,000/month) likely due to increased outdoor activity and tourism, then dropping to a record low in November 2025 (0.1 per 1,000/month). This aligns with reduced foot traffic during winter and holiday closures. The steep drop in burglary may be attributed to improved home security awareness and the area’s low population density, which limits opportunities for opportunistic theft.

Monmouthshire’s crime rate (40.6 per 1,000) is significantly lower than nearby areas like Torfaen (62% higher) and Blaenau Gwent (88% higher), which face greater economic challenges and higher population density. Even the closest comparator, Caerphilly (38% higher), shows a marked contrast, possibly due to its urban sprawl and industrial history. Abergavenny, within Monmouthshire, has a 45% higher rate than the overall average, reflecting its role as a tourist destination, while rural areas like Gilwern remain exceptionally safe, with crime rates 140% below Monmouthshire’s average.

In Monmouthshire’s low-crime environment, proactive security measures like scOS can maintain existing safety standards. With vehicle crime at 1.4 per 1,000/year—71% below the UK average—scOS’s DVLA vehicle registration verification helps flag stolen or cloned plates, a rare but growing threat in rural areas. For homes, scOS’s AI perimeter monitoring complements Monmouthshire’s low burglary rate (1.3 per 1,000/year), offering real-time alerts for any unusual activity. Its behavioural pattern learning reduces false alarms, ideal for areas with regular deliveries. At £19/month, scOS provides proportionate protection without overcomplicating a landscape already marked by community-driven safety.

How To Keep Safe in Monmouthshire

Given Monmouthshire’s low crime rate, focus on preventing opportunistic property crime. Secure vehicles in rural areas, as vehicle crime is 71% below the UK average but still occurs. In towns like Monmouth, use Neighbourhood Watch registration to stay informed about local safety updates. For homes, ensure windows and doors are locked during the day, as anti-social behaviour incidents often involve minor disturbances. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars, especially in areas like Abergavenny, which sees higher foot traffic. Regularly check for unsecured outdoor spaces, as rural burglaries, though rare, may target isolated properties.