Oxford Crime Rate February 2025 | Monthly Statistics

Oxford's crime rate in February 2025 stood at 8.2 per 1,000 residents, 22.4% above the UK average of 6.7. This marks a continuation of trends observed in Oxford, a university city with a dynamic mix of academic, tourist, and residential populations. The most prevalent crime categories were violence and sexual offences (30.7% of total crimes), shoplifting (17.7%), and other theft (9.2%). These figures reflect the area's unique characteristics: high foot traffic on university campuses, retail hubs in the city centre, and a transient population that may contribute to property-related offences. Seasonally, February—a winter month with low outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—typically sees reduced crime in outdoor spaces but may see increased indoor incidents or disturbances linked to colder weather. The sharp rise in shoplifting, 126% above the UK average, is consistent with Oxford's retail presence, particularly in areas like the High Street and Covered Market. Meanwhile, the lower-than-average rate for anti-social behaviour (48% below UK average) may suggest effective community policing or the influence of the university's structured environment. These patterns highlight the interplay between Oxford's geography, demographics, and seasonal rhythms in shaping crime profiles.

February 2025 saw the most dramatic month-on-month increase in burglary, rising 61.5% from 39 to 63 incidents. This surge, while not uncommon in winter months, is notable given Oxford's generally lower burglary rates compared to other UK cities. The rise may be linked to increased indoor activity during colder weather or targeted efforts by offenders in residential areas near university campuses. Anti-social behaviour also increased by 40%, from 60 to 84 incidents, potentially reflecting the return of students to campus after winter break or heightened tensions in shared housing environments. Conversely, possession of weapons fell by 42.1% (19 to 11), a decline that may align with seasonal patterns of reduced public gatherings and fewer alcohol-related incidents in colder weather. Shoplifting remained the most egregious outlier compared to the UK average, with rates 126% above the national figure. This is likely driven by Oxford's tourism and retail sectors, where high foot traffic and the presence of both international and domestic shoppers create opportunities for theft. The 30.7% share of violent crimes, though 6% above the UK average, appears manageable given the city's relatively low population density and strong community policing initiatives. These shifts underscore the need for targeted interventions in retail zones and student accommodation areas.

Oxford's crime rate in February 2025 (8.2 per 1,000) represents a 7.1% increase from the previous month's rate of 7.6, highlighting a growing trend that has persisted over recent months. On a daily basis, the city experienced approximately 48 crimes per day in February—a figure that, while not alarming in isolation, reflects the cumulative effect of multiple crime types across the area. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 123 residents, a monthly aggregate that contextualises the scale of incidents for local residents. When viewed through the lens of population size (166,034), this rate is significantly higher than the UK average but must be interpreted alongside Oxford's unique characteristics. The city's high concentration of students, combined with its status as a major tourist destination, may contribute to elevated rates of property crime and anti-social behaviour compared to more rural or industrial areas. However, the lower-than-average rates for anti-social behaviour and criminal damage suggest that local initiatives—such as community engagement programmes and targeted policing in high-risk areas—may be having a measurable impact. Residents should be aware that while the overall rate is above the UK average, the city's crime profile is shaped by specific factors that differ from national trends.