Port Talbot Crime Rate

About Port Talbot

Port Talbot, a built-up area within Neath Port Talbot, records an overall crime rate of 118.9 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is higher than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a comparatively elevated crime environment for its 29,332 residents. The area holds a safety score of 72 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 78/100. Property crime rates in Port Talbot are also higher than the national average, standing at 34.1 per 1,000 people compared to the UK's 33.2 per 1,000. Over the past year, the crime trend in Port Talbot has remained stable, showing a 3.8% decrease year-over-year, suggesting a slight improvement despite the higher overall rates.

Crime Breakdown in Port Talbot

In Port Talbot, Violence and sexual offences represent the most common crime, accounting for 40.7% of all reported crimes with 1,420 incidents, at a rate of 48.4 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most prevalent, with 483 incidents, making up 13.8% of the total and a rate of 16.5 per 1,000. Public order offences rank third, with 378 crimes, representing 10.8% of the total and a rate of 12.9 per 1,000 people.

Property-related crime in Port Talbot stands at a rate of 34.1 per 1,000 people, which is slightly above the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes shoplifting (12.3 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (8.7 per 1,000), other theft (5.9 per 1,000), vehicle crime (3.1 per 1,000), and burglary (2.6 per 1,000). Bicycle theft (0.8 per 1,000), theft from the person (0.4 per 1,000), and robbery (0.3 per 1,000) are less frequent but still contribute to the overall figure. These statistics highlight a need for residents and homeowners to be particularly vigilant and consider robust security measures to protect their properties and belongings.

Crime Trends in Port Talbot

Port Talbot has experienced a stable crime trend over the last year, with a decrease of 3.8% year-over-year. This slight downward movement is a positive sign, indicating a marginal improvement in the overall crime situation. Examining the monthly crime rates, there was a dip towards the end of 2024, reaching 8.9 per 1,000 in December. However, early 2025 saw some fluctuations, with a peak of 12.1 in May, followed by a decrease towards the end of the period, settling at 8.5 in September 2025. These monthly variations suggest dynamic factors influencing local crime, but the overall annual trend points to a degree of stability with a slight reduction. For residents, this trend offers some reassurance, but continued awareness and security measures are still advisable given the overall crime rate.

Understanding Crime Time Patterns in Port Talbot

Crime patterns in Port Talbot show distinct trends throughout the day. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), theft is a significant concern, accounting for 43% of crimes, likely influenced by commercial activity and people commuting. Vehicle crime also registers at 12%. The afternoon period (12pm-6pm) continues to see high levels of theft at 47%, with burglary also more prevalent at 14%, often coinciding with peak shopping hours and properties being unattended. As evening approaches (6pm-12am), 'other' crime types, potentially including public order and anti-social behaviour, become dominant at 58%, while theft decreases to 19%. This shift aligns with increased socialising and nighttime activities. During the night (12am-6am), vehicle crime is elevated at 31% and burglary at 16%, as properties are often vacant and streets are quieter, providing opportunities for such offences. Understanding these patterns enables residents to enhance their security during vulnerable periods.

Crime in Nearby Areas

Comparing Port Talbot's crime statistics with its nearby built-up areas provides valuable regional context. Port Talbot, with an overall crime rate of 118.9 per 1,000 and a safety score of 72/100, has a higher crime rate than most surrounding areas. Cwmavon, for instance, presents a significantly lower crime rate (58.9 per 1,000) and a higher safety score (85/100), suggesting a much safer environment. Baglan also shows a lower crime rate (73.9 per 1,000) and a higher safety score (82/100) compared to Port Talbot. Bryn (Neath Port Talbot) is another area with a considerably lower crime rate (39.4 per 1,000) and a higher safety score (89/100). Pontrhydyfen, while not directly provided, would likely offer a similar contrast. These comparisons highlight Port Talbot's unique position within the local crime landscape, urging residents to be more proactive with their security.

Protecting Your Home in Port Talbot

Given Port Talbot's property crime rate of 34.1 per 1,000, which is slightly above the UK average, residents should prioritise robust home security. Traditional CCTV systems typically only record a burglary as it happens, offering reactive evidence rather than preventing the crime itself. For those seeking genuine protection, an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS offers a proactive solution. This system is designed to detect threats at your property boundary, intervening before a break-in occurs. With multi-camera intelligence, scOS provides comprehensive surveillance, and its ability to verify DVLA vehicle plates can instantly identify suspicious vehicles. By learning your household's routines, it intelligently filters out false alarms, focusing only on real threats. This allows for an autonomous response, activating lights and engaging speakers to deter intruders within their critical 60-second decision window. This professional-grade approach moves beyond mere monitoring, offering a powerful deterrent that makes potential burglars move on to easier targets.