Rural North Hertfordshire Crime Rate

Rural North Hertfordshire maintains a strong safety profile with an 86/100 safety score, significantly higher than the UK average of 78. The overall crime rate is 59.4 per 1,000 residents, which is well below the national average of 93.1. However, the area has seen an increasing trend, with a 11.7% rise in total offences over the last year. This suggests that while the settlement remains a safe place to live, there is a gradual increase in local activity that residents should monitor. The data below provides a comprehensive look at the specific crime types and patterns within this region.

Crime Breakdown in Rural North Hertfordshire

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type in Rural North Hertfordshire, making up 33.3% of all reports. Anti-social behaviour is also significant at 19.4%, followed by other theft at 8.7%. When considering property crime as a whole—including burglary, vehicle crime, and theft—the rate is 21.5 per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK average property crime rate of 32.9. For residents, this means that while the area is generally secure, there is a consistent level of theft and criminal damage (8.5%) that requires basic security awareness. The broad range of crime types reflects the diverse nature of this rural settlement.

Rural North Hertfordshire Crime Trends

The crime rate in Rural North Hertfordshire has increased by 11.7% year-over-year. Monthly data shows a relatively stable pattern, with rates mostly hovering between 4.2 and 5.6 per 1,000 residents. The highest activity was recorded in November 2024 (5.6), while February 2025 (3.6) was the quietest month of the year. This steady, slightly increasing trend suggests that while there are no major spikes in activity, the overall volume of crime is gradually rising. Residents should remain vigilant and maintain good security practices to counter this slow upward movement.

How To Keep Safe in Rural North Hertfordshire

Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type in the region. To stay safe in this rural setting, consider these targeted suggestions.

1. When out walking or exercising in more isolated rural areas, always carry a mobile phone and let someone know your planned route and return time.
2. Ensure that your home's exterior is well-lit, particularly around entry points and outbuildings, to deter unauthorised access.
3. Be aware of your surroundings when using public transport hubs or walking home late at night; stick to familiar, well-lit paths.
4. Join local community groups or social media pages that share information about suspicious activity in the rural community.
5. Trust your instincts; if you feel uncomfortable in a particular area or situation, move toward a more populated location as quickly as possible.

Crime Timing in Rural North Hertfordshire

Crime in this area follows distinct cycles throughout the day. Theft is the primary daytime concern, peaking at 46% of crimes in the afternoon and 43% in the morning. As evening approaches, the risk shifts toward anti-social behaviour and other offences, which account for 41% of evening reports. Overnight, the focus changes significantly; vehicle crime becomes the most prominent threat, representing 40% of all crimes between 12am and 6am. Burglary also remains a consistent risk throughout the day and night, peaking at 26% during the early morning hours. These trends suggest that while theft is a daytime issue, vehicle security is the most critical concern for residents during the night.

Regional Perspective

Rural North Hertfordshire serves as a safer alternative to some of the more densely populated urban centres in the county. With a crime rate of 59.4, it is more active than the smallest surrounding villages but offers a more tranquil environment than the larger market towns. This settlement covers a broad area, and its safety score of 86 highlights its status as a highly desirable and secure region within the local authority. For those looking for a balance between rural living and reasonable safety, this area provides a consistent and reliable environment compared to the national average.

Proactive Security in Rural Areas

In Rural North Hertfordshire, where the property crime rate is 21.5 per 1,000 people, proactive security is a vital asset. Traditional CCTV systems often only record footage of a burglary after the fact, providing little consolation to the homeowner. For real protection, you need a system that can intervene before a crime is committed.

scOS uses AI-powered multi-camera intelligence to watch your property boundary 24/7. It is designed to detect threats in real-time, distinguishing between normal rural activity and suspicious loitering. For residents in this area, the system's ability to provide an autonomous response—such as activating deterrent lights or speakers—is key to stopping intruders. Most criminals will move on if they realise a property is professionally protected. By focusing on prevention rather than just recording, scOS helps maintain the high safety standards that Rural North Hertfordshire residents expect. Moving to a proactive security model is the most effective way to secure your home and family.