Portsmouth Crime Rate

Portsmouth exhibits a concerning crime rate of 121.2 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, a figure that sits 32.9% above the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000. Over the period from February 2025 to January 2026, Portsmouth has experienced a decrease in overall crime, with a -5.5% year-on-year reduction. However, certain crime types remain elevated compared to national averages, requiring careful consideration for residents and visitors alike. This report provides a detailed breakdown of crime statistics and practical safety advice.

Portsmouth, as a densely populated urban area, faces challenges common to many cities. The mix of residential, commercial, and leisure activities contributes to a dynamic environment, but also presents opportunities for crime. The area's diverse demographics and transport links can also influence crime patterns. Higher population density, particularly in certain neighbourhoods, often correlates with increased incidents of crime, though this is a complex relationship influenced by a range of socioeconomic factors. The vibrancy of the city also attracts visitors, which can present both opportunities and challenges for safety.

The most prevalent crimes in Portsmouth are violence and sexual offences (50.4 per 1,000), followed by shoplifting (13.7 per 1,000), and anti-social behaviour (12.6 per 1,000). Overall property crime stands at 40.0 per 1,000, reflecting a significant area of concern. Violence and sexual offences, while showing a slight decrease of -5.0% year-on-year, remain considerably higher than the UK average of 32.2 per 1,000 (57% above). Shoplifting is also elevated, with a concerning 10.8% increase year-on-year, and 80% above the UK average of 7.6 per 1,000. Anti-social behaviour, while slightly below the UK average, still represents a notable challenge for the community.

Portsmouth has seen a welcome decrease in overall crime of -5.5% year-on-year from February 2025 to January 2026. Monthly crime data reveals fluctuations, with July 2025 registering the highest rate at 11.7 per 1,000, while February 2025 recorded the lowest at 8.7 per 1,000. This downward trend suggests a positive shift, although consistent vigilance remains crucial, particularly given the elevated crime rates compared to the national average. The ongoing reduction demonstrates the potential for further improvement with continued preventative measures.

Comparing Portsmouth’s crime rate of 121.2 per 1,000 to its neighbours, it appears relatively consistent. Gosport and Havant both have rates of 84.0 and 83.9 per 1,000 respectively, while Fareham boasts a significantly lower rate of 59.5 per 1,000. Southampton, however, presents a higher rate at 128.6 per 1,000, suggesting Portsmouth’s crime situation is broadly in line with surrounding areas, but with room for improvement compared to the safest neighbour.

Traditional CCTV systems often simply record crime after it has already occurred. Consider a proactive security approach. scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, detects threats at your property boundary, preventing incidents before they escalate. Unlike Ring or Nest cameras, scOS doesn't just record; it actively intervenes, using multi-camera intelligence and DVLA vehicle verification to identify and respond to potential threats. The visible presence of scOS technology can be a powerful deterrent, often causing burglars to reconsider their actions within that critical 60-second window.

How To Keep Safe in Portsmouth

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas. Due to the high rate of shoplifting, be mindful of your belongings when shopping. Consider carrying a personal alarm for added reassurance. With vehicle crime also a factor, ensure your vehicle is securely locked and valuables are out of sight. Finally, report any suspicious activity to the police promptly.