New Forest Crime Rate

The New Forest is one of the safest local authority areas in the country, with an overall crime rate of 60.8 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.7, resulting in a high safety score of 85/100. The area is currently seeing a positive trend, with crime decreasing by 7.7% year-over-year. Property crime in the New Forest is also notably low at 21.4 per 1,000, which is well below the national average of 32.3. These statistics, based on data from December 2024 to November 2025, show that the New Forest is a low-risk area for both personal and property crime. The following sections provide a more detailed look at the crime landscape across the district and advice for staying safe.

The New Forest is a unique local authority area characterised by its vast ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and picturesque coastline. Unlike many urbanised districts, it is largely rural and protected as a National Park, which significantly influences its crime statistics. The area's economy is heavily driven by tourism, attracting millions of visitors annually to its villages and attractions, which can lead to seasonal fluctuations in certain crime types.

The population is a mix of long-term residents in established towns like Lymington and Totton, and a more transient population of tourists. This high density of visitors, combined with major transport links like the A31 and M27, can attract opportunistic crime. However, the overall lack of major industrial hubs and a generally affluent demographic contribute to a safety profile that is much better than the national average. The New Forest's status as a premier tourist destination means that maintaining public order and safety in its many beauty spots is a key priority for local law enforcement.

In the New Forest, violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type, accounting for 42.0% of all recorded incidents with a rate of 25.5 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by anti-social behaviour (9.9%) and criminal damage and arson (8.9%). These three categories are the primary focus for local policing across the district.

Property crime—which includes burglary, vehicle crime, theft, and criminal damage—has a combined rate of 21.4 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 32.3, indicating that the New Forest is a very safe place for homeowners. Shoplifting is the most frequent property-related offence (8.1%), followed by other theft (6.3%) and burglary (6.0%). Vehicle crime accounts for 4.4% of total offences. For residents, the data suggests that while public-facing offences are the main concern, the risk of property theft is relatively low. However, the presence of shoplifting and other theft highlights the importance of maintaining robust security for both residential and commercial properties to protect against opportunistic crime.

The crime trend in the New Forest is positive, with a 7.7% year-over-year decrease in recorded offences. This indicates a steady improvement in safety across the district. Monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows that the crime rate per 1,000 residents has remained consistently low, mostly fluctuating between 4.3 and 6.1. There was a peak in July 2025 at 6.1, which may be related to the increase in visitors during the peak summer season. However, the rate quickly returned to lower levels in the following months. This sustained downward trajectory suggests that the New Forest is maintaining its status as a very safe community, with local safety measures and policing proving effective. For residents, this means that the area's overall risk remains consistently minimal.

In the regional context, the New Forest is a standout area for safety. While data for nearby major urban centres like Southampton, Eastleigh, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Fareham, Isle of Wight, and Gosport is currently not provided for direct comparison, the New Forest's overall crime rate of 60.8 per 1,000 is exceptionally low for a district with such a high volume of visitors. The 7.7% reduction in crime over the last year further reinforces its status as one of the most secure parts of the South Coast. For those looking for a safe and stable environment in this region, the New Forest is an excellent choice.

With a property crime rate of 21.4 per 1,000, the New Forest is a very safe area for homeowners, but the presence of burglary and vehicle crime means that security should still be a priority. Traditional security systems are reactive; they record footage of a crime while it is happening or alert you after a sensor has been triggered. For those who want to actively prevent crime, proactive protection is a much better alternative.

scOS is an AI-powered home security operating system that identifies threats before they reach your home. By monitoring your property's perimeter in real-time, scOS can detect suspicious activity and take autonomous action—such as turning on lights or playing a warning through speakers—to deter criminals. In the New Forest, where burglary and vehicle crime are notable property-related concerns, scOS provides a constant, intelligent watch that traditional DIY cameras cannot provide. It learns your family's routines and only alerts you to real threats, ensuring your home remains secure. Investing in proactive detection is the most effective way to protect your property and maintain the area's excellent safety record.

How To Keep Safe in New Forest

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in the New Forest, accounting for 42% of all recorded incidents. While the overall rate is significantly below the UK average, personal safety should be a priority for residents and visitors alike.

When exploring the area's towns or natural beauty spots, especially in the evening, try to stay in well-lit areas and on familiar routes. If you are out alone, keep your phone easily accessible and avoid using headphones, as being aware of your surroundings is your best defence. Letting a friend or family member know your plans can also provide an extra layer of security.

For property safety, the data shows that burglary and vehicle crime are notable risks. Always ensure your home and vehicle are securely locked, even when you are nearby. For vehicle owners, especially those visiting tourist spots, never leave valuables on display as this can attract opportunistic thieves. Participating in local safety schemes like Neighbourhood Watch can also help keep the district's crime rate on its current downward path. By staying vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity, residents and visitors can help maintain the New Forest's high safety standards.