Royston (North Hertfordshire) Crime Rate

Royston (North Hertfordshire) experienced a crime rate of 57.5 incidents per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a comparatively safer environment. However, understanding the specific types of crime and trends is crucial for residents. The data reveals a decrease in overall crime rates, which is a positive development, but certain categories require ongoing attention. Examining these statistics in detail allows for a more nuanced understanding of safety within Royston and informs strategies for continued improvement.

Royston (North Hertfordshire) experienced 673 crimes between January 2025 and December 2025. The most prevalent offences were violence and sexual offences (325 crimes), accounting for 36.7% of all recorded incidents. Anti-social behaviour followed, with 224 reported crimes (25.3%), and other theft constituted 57 crimes (6.4%). Vehicle crime (52), criminal damage and arson (49), and shoplifting (48) also represented significant proportions of reported incidents. While burglary (41) and public order offences (39) were less frequent, they still contributed to the overall crime picture. The diverse range of offences highlights the varied challenges faced by the community within Royston, impacting different aspects of daily life and reflecting a complex interplay of social and economic factors.

Crime rates in Royston have shown a positive downward trend, decreasing by -8.2% year-on-year. This decline is reflected in monthly data, with crime rates steadily decreasing from 5.1 per 1,000 in January 2025 to a low of 3.4 per 1,000 in December 2025. While fluctuations occur month-to-month – notably a slight increase in June and July – the overall trajectory demonstrates a welcome improvement in community safety. This decrease could be attributed to increased police presence, community initiatives, or a combination of factors contributing to a safer environment.

How To Keep Safe in Royston

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, be mindful of your surroundings, especially when out alone at night. Report any suspicious behaviour to the authorities promptly. With vehicle crime a notable concern, ensure your vehicle is locked and alarms are activated when parked. Consider installing security cameras or motion-sensor lights around your property to deter potential thieves. Finally, be aware of anti-social behaviour in public spaces and report incidents to the relevant authorities to help maintain a safe and respectful community.

Crimes in Royston tend to fluctuate throughout the day. Burglary incidents are most frequently reported during the afternoon (12pm-6pm), while theft is more common during commercial hours. Vehicle crime is notably higher during the overnight period (12am-6am), suggesting a potential correlation with reduced visibility and activity. Violence and sexual offences show a peak in the evening (6pm-12am), particularly on weekend nights, underscoring the importance of increased vigilance and preventative measures during these times.

Royston’s crime rate of 57.5 per 1,000 residents differs significantly from its neighbours. Kneesworth and Therfield report no recorded crime, demonstrating exceptionally low levels of incidents. Bassingbourn, however, experiences a considerably higher rate of 75.7 per 1,000, highlighting a disparity in safety across the North Hertfordshire region. Melbourn, with a rate of 43.6 per 1,000, presents a middle ground, suggesting varying local factors influencing crime rates within the area.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively preventing threats at your property line is another. Consider a proactive security solution like scOS, which uses AI to detect potential threats before they escalate. scOS's DVLA vehicle verification instantly flags suspicious vehicles, while its multi-camera intelligence system watches your property continuously. The visible deterrence of professional-grade equipment and autonomous responses – lights activating, speakers engaging – can often make that 60-second decision easy for potential intruders: they move on. This preventative approach offers a significant upgrade over reactive security measures.