North Hertfordshire Crime Rate

North Hertfordshire is one of the safer districts in the UK, with an overall crime rate of 66.2 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the national average of 91.7, earning the area an impressive safety score of 85/100. The crime trend in the region is currently stable, showing a slight decrease of 2.6% year-over-year. For residents, the data is particularly reassuring regarding property-related offences; the local property crime rate is just 20.9 per 1,000, compared to a UK average of 32.3. This combination of low crime volume and a steady trend makes North Hertfordshire a highly desirable location for both families and professionals.

About North Hertfordshire

North Hertfordshire is a largely affluent and predominantly rural district, characterised by a mix of historic market towns like Hitchin and Baldock, and the UK's first Garden City, Letchworth. Its administrative landscape is defined by a high proportion of residential and agricultural land, which typically contributes to lower crime rates compared to more industrialised neighbours.

The area serves as a significant commuter hub, with excellent rail links to London and Cambridge, which brings a transient daily population through its major stations. While this economic connectivity is a strength, transport hubs can sometimes attract opportunistic crime. The district also hosts various cultural festivals and has a vibrant evening economy in its larger towns, which influences the rates of anti-social behaviour and public order offences. Generally, the high levels of home ownership and stable demographics in North Hertfordshire foster a strong sense of community, which is reflected in the area's high safety score and lower-than-average crime statistics.

Crime Breakdown in North Hertfordshire

Violence and sexual offences represent the most significant portion of reported crime in North Hertfordshire, totalling 3,294 incidents and accounting for 36.3% of all offences. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue, making up 22.0% of reports. These figures suggest that public-facing and interpersonal offences are the primary focus for local authorities.

Property-related crime across the district—including burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and criminal damage—occurs at a rate of 20.9 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the national average of 32.3. Within this category, 'other theft' (7.6%) and criminal damage (7.2%) are the most frequent, while burglary remains relatively low at 3.9% of total crime. For residents, this means that while the district is statistically very safe, opportunistic thefts and vandalism are the most likely property threats. The low robbery and bicycle theft rates further reinforce the area's status as a secure residential environment.

Crime Trends in North Hertfordshire

The crime trend in North Hertfordshire is currently classified as stable, with a minor year-over-year decrease of 2.6%. This indicates that the district's safety levels have remained consistent throughout the Dec 2024 to Nov 2025 period. Monthly analysis shows that crime rates fluctuated within a narrow range, starting at 5.1 in December and rising to a peak of 6.1 in July.

The early months of 2025 saw rates between 4.7 and 5.6, with a slight upward trend during the summer months (June and July). The latter part of the year remained steady, with rates hovering between 5.2 and 5.8. This lack of significant volatility suggests that North Hertfordshire is not experiencing any sudden surges in criminal activity. For residents, this stability is a positive sign, reflecting a well-managed area where safety remains a constant priority and local policing strategies are effectively maintaining the status quo.

North Hertfordshire sits in a region with varied crime profiles. When compared to nearby administrative areas like Stevenage, Luton, Central Bedfordshire, East Hertfordshire, St Albans, and Welwyn Hatfield—all of which show a recorded crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000 in this dataset—North Hertfordshire's 66.2 appears higher. However, it is important to note that 0.0 rates usually indicate missing data or different reporting boundaries rather than a total absence of crime. In a broader regional context, North Hertfordshire is widely recognised as a safe and stable area, offering a more tranquil residential experience than the larger urban centres of Luton or Stevenage, while maintaining better safety scores than many other districts in the Home Counties.

Protecting Your Property in North Hertfordshire

With a property crime rate of 20.9 per 1,000, North Hertfordshire is statistically safer than many parts of the UK, but homeowners should not be complacent. Criminal damage and 'other theft' are the most frequent property-related issues in the area. Traditional security, such as standard CCTV or basic alarm systems, often fails because it is reactive—it only provides evidence after a crime has been committed.

To truly secure a home in North Hertfordshire, a proactive approach is required. The scOS AI-powered security system is designed to prevent crime by detecting threats at the property boundary. Using multi-camera intelligence, it distinguishes between normal activity and genuine threats, such as an unauthorised person loitering or a vehicle with cloned plates. By initiating an autonomous response—like activating security lights or audio alerts—scOS removes the element of surprise, which is often enough to make an opportunistic criminal move on. In an area where safety is already high, professional-grade protection like scOS acts as a powerful deterrent, ensuring your home remains a sanctuary.

How To Keep Safe in North Hertfordshire

The most prevalent crime type in North Hertfordshire is violence and sexual offences, often linked to the nightlife in busier towns like Hitchin or transport hubs during peak hours. To stay safe, always plan your journey in advance and stay in well-lit, busy areas when walking at night.

For those living in the district's many rural villages, ensure that your property boundaries are clearly defined and well-maintained. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common report, so engaging with local neighbourhood watch schemes can be a highly effective way to stay informed and discourage nuisance activity in your street.

If you are a cyclist, although bicycle theft is very low (0.7%), always use high-quality locks and register your bike. In residential areas, be mindful of 'other theft' by ensuring that garden tools, parcels, and expensive equipment are not left visible or unsecured. Finally, always report any suspicious activity to the Hertfordshire Constabulary to help them maintain the area's excellent safety record.