Northumberland Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Northumberland

Northumberland's overall crime rate stands at 91.1 per 1,000 residents per year, which is notably lower than the national average of 93.4 per 1,000. This contributes to a strong safety score of 79 out of 100, placing it above the UK average safety score of 78/100. In a positive development, the area has seen a decreasing trend in crime, with a 5.6% reduction year-over-year. These figures provide a foundational understanding of the local crime landscape, offering insights into both the general safety and specific patterns observed across Northumberland. This detailed analysis will delve into various crime types, historical trends, and comparisons with neighbouring areas.

About Northumberland

Northumberland, as a large and diverse local authority district, presents a unique set of characteristics that influence its crime statistics. The area is predominantly rural with significant stretches of coastline, national parks, and agricultural land, which typically experience lower crime rates compared to densely populated urban centres. However, it also encompasses market towns and smaller urban settlements that serve as commercial and residential hubs. Tourism plays a significant role, particularly along the coast and in historical areas, leading to a transient population during peak seasons which can sometimes correlate with specific types of offences such as theft. The overall lower population density across much of the county, coupled with strong community ties in many villages and towns, often contributes to a generally lower prevalence of certain crimes. Economic factors, including employment opportunities and local deprivation levels in specific pockets, can also play a part in shaping the crime landscape, contributing to the nuanced picture of safety and security in Northumberland.

Crime Type Analysis in Northumberland

The crime profile in Northumberland is significantly influenced by specific offence categories. The most prevalent crime type is Violence and sexual offences, accounting for 10,835 incidents, representing 35.9% of all reported crimes and a rate of 32.7 per 1,000 residents. This is followed by Anti-social behaviour, with 5,543 recorded crimes, making up 18.4% of the total and a rate of 16.7 per 1,000. Criminal damage and arson constitute the third most common category, with 2,836 incidents, 9.4% of the total, and a rate of 8.6 per 1,000.

When considering property-related crime, which is often a key concern for residents and homeowners, Northumberland records a rate of 28.4 per 1,000 people. This is notably lower than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. Within this category, Burglary accounts for 1,069 crimes (3.2 per 1,000), Vehicle crime for 920 crimes (2.8 per 1,000), and Other theft for 1,610 crimes (4.9 per 1,000). Shoplifting is also significant with 2,650 incidents (8.0 per 1,000). While these figures indicate a relatively lower risk compared to national averages, residents should remain vigilant, particularly regarding the security of their homes and vehicles. Understanding these specific crime patterns allows for more targeted prevention efforts, helping to safeguard personal property and maintain community safety.

Crime Trends in Northumberland

Northumberland has experienced a positive shift in its crime landscape, demonstrating a decreasing trend with a significant 5.6% reduction in overall crime year-over-year. This downward trajectory offers reassurance to residents regarding the improving safety of the area. Examining the monthly trend data reveals fluctuations but an overall move towards lower crime rates. For instance, in late 2024, crime rates per 1,000 residents saw a dip from 7.8 in October to 6.6 in December, continuing to a low of 6.4 in February 2025. While there was a slight increase in spring and summer months, peaking at 8.6 in August 2025, the overall annual change remains positive. This pattern of seasonal variation, with generally lower rates in winter and early spring, followed by slight increases in warmer months, is not uncommon. For residents, this sustained decrease in crime suggests that ongoing community safety initiatives and policing efforts are having a measurable impact, contributing to a more secure environment across Northumberland.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

Northumberland's crime statistics can be further understood by comparing them with neighbouring areas, providing valuable regional context. For instance, areas such as Newcastle upon Tyne, Gateshead, and Sunderland, being more urban and densely populated, typically exhibit different crime profiles, often with higher rates in certain categories due to their metropolitan characteristics. In contrast, North Tyneside and South Tyneside, while also urbanised, may present varying crime challenges depending on their specific demographics and economic activities. The Scottish Borders, sharing a boundary with Northumberland, offers a different comparison, often reflecting a more rural crime landscape akin to parts of Northumberland itself. This regional analysis highlights that Northumberland generally maintains a favourable position in terms of safety compared to its more urbanised southern neighbours, while sharing some similarities with its rural Scottish counterpart. These comparisons help residents gauge Northumberland's relative safety within the wider North East and border regions.

Protecting Your Property in Northumberland

The property crime rate in Northumberland, at 28.4 per 1,000 people, is lower than the national average, yet safeguarding your home remains a priority. While traditional security measures like standard CCTV record incidents after they occur, true peace of mind comes from preventing crime before it happens. Many homeowners only find out about a burglary after the fact, when they review footage. However, a proactive approach can fundamentally change this dynamic.

Consider security systems that don't just record a burglary but actively prevent it. Professional-grade solutions, such as an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS, detect threats at your property boundary. This intelligence allows for intervention in real-time, engaging lights and speakers to deter potential intruders before they even reach your door. Unlike basic DIY cameras that notify you after an event, advanced systems provide multi-camera intelligence, learning your routines and distinguishing real threats from everyday occurrences. The goal is to make that critical 60-second decision for a potential burglar an easy one: move on. Investing in professional, proactive protection ensures your property signals serious security, reducing the likelihood of becoming a target.