Portsmouth Crime Rate

Understanding Crime in Portsmouth

Portsmouth records an overall crime rate of 124.9 per 1,000 residents per year, positioning it above the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. The city's safety score is 69 out of 100, which is lower than the UK average of 78, indicating a need for residents to be aware of local crime patterns. In terms of recent trends, Portsmouth has experienced a stable period, with a marginal year-over-year change of -0.6%. This data provides a foundational understanding of the crime landscape in Portsmouth, setting the stage for a more detailed analysis of specific crime types and trends.

About Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a prominent port city and naval base, characterised by its island location and high population density. Its urban environment encompasses a mix of residential areas, a vibrant commercial centre, and significant industrial and maritime infrastructure, including the historic dockyard. The presence of a large university and a substantial military population contributes to a dynamic, and at times, transient population. These factors, alongside its role as a major transport hub, can influence the city's crime statistics. The dense urban setting and diverse population often correlate with higher rates of certain crime types, particularly those related to public order and theft in busy areas.

Crime Type Analysis in Portsmouth

An analysis of crime types in Portsmouth reveals that Violence and sexual offences constitute the most significant category, accounting for 42.4% of all crimes at a rate of 53.0 per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting is the second most prevalent, making up 10.3% of offences (12.9 per 1,000), followed closely by Anti-social behaviour at 10.1% (12.6 per 1,000). These figures highlight areas where community attention and prevention efforts are particularly crucial.

Considering property-related crime, which includes burglary, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, other theft, and robbery, Portsmouth records a rate of 40.1 per 1,000 residents. This is notably higher than the UK average property crime rate of 33.2 per 1,000. For residents and homeowners, this elevated rate underscores the importance of robust security measures to protect homes, vehicles, and personal belongings. Specific attention to securing properties against burglary (3.2 per 1,000) and preventing vehicle crime (4.8 per 1,000) and other theft (7.0 per 1,000) is advisable.

Crime Trends in Portsmouth

Portsmouth has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a minimal year-over-year decrease of 0.6%. This indicates that the overall crime rate has remained largely consistent. Examining the monthly trend data reveals some fluctuations within this stable period. For instance, crime rates per 1,000 residents were higher in October 2024 (11.5), May 2025 (11.1), and July 2025 (11.7), suggesting potential seasonal or event-driven peaks. Conversely, lower rates were observed in February 2025 (8.7) and December 2024 (9.4). This stable but fluctuating pattern implies that while there hasn't been a significant shift in overall safety, residents should remain aware of these monthly variations, which could be influenced by factors such as weather, holidays, or local events.

Comparing Portsmouth with Nearby Areas

When placed in regional context, Portsmouth's crime statistics can be compared to several nearby areas. Gosport, Havant, and Fareham are generally more residential and may present different crime profiles, often with lower overall rates due to varying population densities and urban characteristics. The Isle of Wight, being a more rural and insular area, typically experiences significantly lower crime rates. Eastleigh and Southampton, as larger urban centres, often share some similarities with Portsmouth in terms of crime challenges, particularly concerning public order and theft in commercial zones. Southampton, in particular, as another major port city, might face comparable issues. Understanding these regional differences helps residents contextualise Portsmouth's crime rate and provides a broader perspective on safety within the wider Hampshire region.

Protecting Your Property in Portsmouth

Given Portsmouth's property crime rate of 40.1 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average, proactive home security is a critical consideration for residents. Traditional security measures, such as basic CCTV cameras, often only provide footage of a burglary after it has occurred, offering a reactive record rather than genuine prevention. For those seeking to truly safeguard their property, a shift towards proactive, intelligent security is essential.

Systems like scOS offer an advanced approach by leveraging AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary, stopping incidents before they escalate into a break-in. Unlike DIY systems that merely notify you after the fact, scOS intervenes in real-time, utilising multi-camera intelligence to watch all angles simultaneously. With features like DVLA vehicle verification and pattern learning, it intelligently distinguishes between genuine threats and routine activities, minimising false alarms. The autonomous response, involving activated lights and speakers, is designed to destroy the element of surprise, making burglars reconsider their intentions within that crucial 60-second decision window. Investing in professional-grade equipment that signals serious protection can significantly deter potential criminals, offering a superior level of security compared to simply recording a crime.