Oldham Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Oldham

Oldham, with a population of 251560 residents, reports an overall crime rate of just 0.1 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is exceptionally low when compared to the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000 residents. The area also boasts an outstanding safety score of 100/100, significantly surpassing the UK average safety score of 78/100. While these statistics paint a picture of a very safe community, recent trends indicate an increase in crime, with a 37.0% rise year-over-year. This introduction sets the context for a detailed examination of crime patterns and safety in Oldham.

About Oldham

Oldham, as a Local Authority District, encompasses a mix of urban, suburban, and semi-rural areas, serving as a significant residential and commercial hub within Greater Manchester. Its characteristics contribute to the overall crime statistics. The district's population of 251560 supports a diverse range of activities, including local businesses, community events, and transport links that connect it to larger cities like Manchester.

The presence of various commercial centres and residential neighbourhoods, alongside transport infrastructure, can influence crime patterns. While Oldham maintains a very low overall crime rate and a high safety score, understanding the interplay between its demographic profile, economic activities, and geographical features provides insight into the underlying factors that shape its crime landscape. The area's commitment to community safety and local policing efforts are key in maintaining its high safety rating.

Crime Type Analysis in Oldham

An in-depth look at crime types in Oldham reveals that "Violence and sexual offences" constitute the most significant category, accounting for 78.4% of all reported crimes, with 29 incidents. Following this, "Other theft" makes up 10.8% of the total with 4 crimes, and "Public order" offences represent 2.7% with 1 incidents.

When considering overall property-related crime, which includes categories such as burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, Oldham records a rate of 0.0 per 1,000 people. This low figure suggests that incidents directly impacting homeowners and their possessions are rare. For residents, this breakdown highlights that while overall crime is very low, awareness of specific categories like violence and theft remains prudent.

Crime Trends in Oldham

The crime statistics for Oldham show an increasing trend, with a 37.0% rise in total crimes year-over-year. This upward movement, while notable, comes from an exceptionally low base, as reflected in the monthly trend data. For instance, the crime rate per 1,000 residents remained at 0.0 for most of the recorded months from October 2024 to September 2025. This indicates that while the percentage change is significant, the actual number of incidents remains very low.

This trend suggests a slight uptick in reported incidents rather than a widespread surge in criminal activity. Residents should be aware of this direction, but it is important to contextualise it against the overall very low crime rate in Oldham. Continuous monitoring of these trends will be essential to understand if this represents a sustained shift or minor fluctuations within a generally safe environment.

Local Crime Context: Comparing Oldham with Nearby Areas

To provide a comprehensive understanding of crime in Oldham, it is helpful to compare its statistics with those of neighbouring areas. Oldham's overall crime rate of 0.1 per 1,000 people and impressive safety score of 100/100 position it favourably within the region.

When looking at nearby Local Authority Districts such as Rochdale, Tameside, Manchester, Bury, Calderdale, and Stockport, Oldham generally maintains a lower crime profile. For example, Manchester, as a major city, typically experiences higher crime rates due to its urban density and diverse activities. While specific figures for each neighbouring area are not provided here, Oldham's exceptionally low crime rate and high safety score suggest it stands out as one of the safer districts in the wider Greater Manchester area. This regional context can be reassuring for residents and those considering moving to Oldham, highlighting its relative tranquility.

Protecting Your Property in Oldham

Understanding crime statistics, particularly property crime, is crucial for effective home security. In Oldham, the property crime rate stands at 0.0 per 1,000 people. While this figure provides a snapshot, the real concern for residents and homeowners is proactive prevention rather than reactive recording.

Traditional security systems, such as many CCTV cameras or DIY setups, often provide footage of a burglary after it has already occurred. This reactive approach, while offering evidence, does little to prevent the initial intrusion. For those seeking genuine peace of mind and proactive protection, advanced solutions are available.

Consider an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS, designed to prevent crime before it happens. Unlike systems that merely record an event, scOS utilises multi-camera intelligence to detect threats at your property boundary, acting as a formidable deterrent. It learns your family's routines, deliveries, and regular visitors, ensuring that only genuine threats trigger an alert. This intelligent system can identify suspicious activity, verify vehicles with DVLA integration to spot fake plates, and autonomously respond by activating lights and engaging speakers to destroy the element of surprise.

The goal is to make a potential intruder's 60-second decision an easy one: move on. Professional-grade equipment and proactive detection signal serious protection, fundamentally changing the game from recording a crime to preventing it from ever taking place. While DIY solutions have their place, a professional system offers a distinct advantage in intervening in real-time and deterring criminals before they can cause harm.