Brockenhurst Crime Rate

Brockenhurst’s crime profile is defined by a striking contrast: while its overall crime rate is 31% below the UK average, shoplifting stands out as 82% above the national rate. This built-up area within the New Forest balances safety with specific challenges tied to its retail and commuter character. With a safety score of 86/100, it is a very safe place, but targeted advice for shoplifting and public order issues is essential.

Brockenhurst is a built-up area within the New Forest, characterized by a mix of residential communities, retail centers, and proximity to natural landscapes. Its crime profile is influenced by its role as a commuter hub and tourist destination. The presence of retail areas likely contributes to shoplifting rates, while the area's rural-urban blend may affect patterns of property crime and public order issues.

The most surprising finding is that shoplifting in Brockenhurst is 82% above the UK average (13.6 vs 7.5 per 1,000), despite the area’s overall safety. This could be attributed to the concentration of retail outlets, which attract higher foot traffic and create opportunities for opportunistic theft. Public order crimes, 13% above the UK average, may reflect the social dynamics of a mixed-use area with both residential and commercial zones. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour has surged by 325% YoY, though it remains below the UK average. This sharp increase might be linked to seasonal events or changes in local demographics. The area’s property crime rate is slightly below the UK average, likely due to strong community engagement and low burglary rates, which have fallen by 54% YoY.

Crime in Brockenhurst has decreased by 14.1% YoY, with the most notable decline in burglary (-54%) and vehicle crime (-29.4%). However, anti-social behaviour has surged by 325% YoY, though it remains 67% below the UK average. The monthly trend shows a sharp peak in March 2025 (10.5 per 1,000/month) followed by a decline, likely due to seasonal factors such as reduced tourism and lower outdoor activity during winter. The drop in October 2025 (2.0 per 1,000/month) may reflect fewer events and holidays.

How To Keep Safe in Brockenhurst

For residents concerned about shoplifting, consider securing high-value items in retail areas and using anti-theft tags. Public order issues, which are 13% above the UK average, may require vigilance in mixed-use zones. For vehicle crime, park in well-lit areas and use immobilizers. Given Brockenhurst’s overall safety, these targeted steps can further reduce risk without overcomplicating daily life.

Crime in Brockenhurst shows distinct patterns across the day and week. Vehicle crime peaks at night (12am–6am), likely due to unsecured parking in residential areas. Theft is most common in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), aligning with retail activity and higher pedestrian movement. Burglary occurs most frequently in the evening (6pm–12am), possibly tied to returning residents or increased outdoor activity. Weekend nights see a notable rise in crime, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, suggesting that nightlife or event-related activity may contribute to spikes in anti-social behaviour and public order issues.

Brockenhurst’s crime rate (62.5 per 1,000) is 40% higher than Sway’s (44.5 per 1,000), likely due to differences in population density and economic activity. Sway’s lower rate may reflect a smaller, more rural population with fewer commercial zones. Both areas share similar geographic features, but Brockenhurst’s retail and commuter functions contribute to its higher crime profile.

For Brockenhurst households, addressing shoplifting—82% above the UK average—requires proactive measures, scOS’s AI-powered boundary detection identifies threats before they reach your property, reducing opportunities for opportunistic theft. DVLA vehicle registration checks flag suspicious vehicles automatically, while multi-camera monitoring ensures no blind spots. These features are especially relevant in an area where retail density drives shoplifting rates. With everything included at £19/month, it offers a practical solution to the local crime profile.