Oxford Crime Rate December 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Oxford's crime rate for December 2025 was 8.2 per 1,000 residents, placing it 17.1% above the UK average of 7.0 per 1,000. This figure, while lower than the previous month's 9.1 per 1,000, reflects a persistent challenge for a university city with a high proportion of transient populations and a vibrant retail sector. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 30.8% of all crimes, with 418 incidents reported, a rate of 2.5 per 1,000 that was 3% below the UK average. This may partly explain the overall rate's deviation from the national benchmark, as Oxford's violent crime profile is comparatively balanced. Shoplifting emerged as a significant concern, with 179 cases reported—1.1 per 1,000 residents, 93% above the UK average. The city's academic and tourist draw likely contributes to this trend, as high streets and university precincts remain focal points for such offences. Public order offences also rose to 0.7 per 1,000, 59% above the UK average, possibly linked to the festive season's impact on nightlife and crowded public spaces. These patterns suggest that while Oxford's violent crime rate is somewhat in line with national expectations, property-related offences, particularly shoplifting, demand targeted interventions to address the unique dynamics of a city with a large student population and year-round tourism.

December 2025 saw significant fluctuations in crime categories, with vehicle crime rising by 22.4% to 82 incidents, likely driven by increased festive travel and parking congestion. Conversely, bicycle theft fell by 45.6% to 56 cases, possibly reflecting heightened awareness campaigns or reduced usage during colder weather. Robbery increased by 13.0%, a concerning trend that may partly explain the 100% rise in this category compared to the UK average. Meanwhile, shoplifting remained a persistent issue, with rates 93% above the UK average, highlighting the challenges faced by retail areas during the Christmas shopping peak. The sharp decline in other theft (down 18.7%) suggests that targeted interventions may have had an impact, though the overall property crime rate remains elevated. These shifts underscore the need for adaptive policing strategies that address both seasonal and persistent crime drivers.

Oxford's crime rate in December 2025 stood at 8.2 per 1,000 residents, a 9.7% decrease from the previous month's 9.1 per 1,000. This decline aligns with the end of the holiday shopping season and reduced foot traffic in retail areas. above the UK average. On a daily basis, the area experienced approximately 44 reported crimes, a figure that underscores the persistent need for vigilance in high-traffic zones. Over the course of the month, one crime occurred for every 122 residents, a statistic that, while lower than the previous month, still reflects a higher-than-average burden compared to the UK. With a population of 166,034, the local context suggests that targeted policing in areas prone to shoplifting and public order offences may help sustain this downward trend. The monthly exposure rate also highlights the importance of community engagement in maintaining safety, particularly during periods of reduced visibility and increased seasonal activity.