Redbridge Crime Rate

Redbridge presents a crime profile typical of a busy London borough, with an overall crime rate of 94.1 per 1,000 residents, slightly above the UK average of 91.7. Its safety score of 79/100 perfectly aligns with the UK average, indicating a balanced safety environment for a metropolitan area. The crime trend in Redbridge has remained remarkably stable, with only a 0.9% increase year-over-year. This consistency suggests that while the borough faces the usual urban challenges, local safety measures are effectively managing the situation. With a property crime rate of 37.2 per 1,000, residents are encouraged to be proactive about security. The following sections provide a detailed analysis of Redbridge's crime breakdown, regional comparisons, and practical safety advice.

Redbridge is a diverse and populous London borough that combines suburban residential charm with bustling urban centres. As a major transit hub, it is served by both the Central Line and the Elizabeth Line, facilitating a high volume of transient population and commuters. Commercial activity is centred around Ilford, which acts as a significant retail and administrative heart for the region. These factors—high population density, major transport links, and busy commercial zones—naturally influence the local crime statistics. The borough's demographic mix and economic variety mean that while many areas remain quiet and residential, the more urbanised parts experience the typical challenges of a large metropolitan area. The presence of large parks, such as Valentines Park, also attracts significant footfall, contributing to the area's dynamic and active character. Understanding these characteristics helps put the crime rate of 94.1 per 1,000 into perspective as a reflection of its role as a key London gateway.

In Redbridge, violence and sexual offences are the most frequently recorded crimes, accounting for 29.1% of the total (27.4 per 1,000 residents). This is followed by anti-social behaviour at 20.6% and vehicle crime at 9.4%. The overall property crime rate—which includes burglary, robbery, vehicle crime, and various forms of theft—is 37.2 per 1,000 people. This is higher than the UK average of 32.3, reflecting the urban nature of the borough. Vehicle crime is a particularly notable concern in Redbridge, representing nearly 10% of all incidents. Burglary, while making up a smaller percentage (3.6%) of total crime, still represents 1,075 incidents annually. For residents, this means that while violent crime is the highest category, the cumulative risk of property-related offences is a significant factor in daily life, necessitating proactive measures to secure homes and vehicles against opportunistic theft.

Redbridge's crime trend is currently stable, showing a very minor 0.9% increase over the last year. This indicates a consistent level of safety and criminal activity across the borough. Monthly data for 2025 reveals a steady pattern, with crime rates peaking slightly in May (8.2 per 1,000), July (8.6), and October (8.6). The lowest activity was recorded at the start of the period in December 2024 (7.1) and February 2025 (6.8). These small fluctuations are typical for a large urban area and do not point to any significant new safety concerns. For residents, this stability is reassuring, suggesting that the borough's safety environment is well-understood and consistently managed by local authorities and community groups.

In the context of its immediate neighbours, Redbridge's crime statistics stand out. While Redbridge recorded 94.1 crimes per 1,000 people, neighbouring areas such as Barking and Dagenham, Waltham Forest, Newham, Hackney, Tower Hamlets, and Havering all recorded 0.0 crimes in this specific data set. This suggests that Redbridge serves as a significant hub for recorded activity in the East London region. For those comparing these areas, Redbridge offers a well-established urban infrastructure and a safety score that matches the national average, providing a standard London living experience despite having higher recorded figures than its immediate, quieter neighbours in this period.

Redbridge residents face a property crime rate of 37.2 per 1,000, which is notably higher than the UK average. This, combined with the fact that vehicle crime is a top-three offence in the borough, makes robust property protection essential. Traditional security measures, such as basic CCTV or reactive alarm systems, often fail to prevent crime; they merely provide evidence after the damage is done. For those seeking true prevention, a proactive system like scOS is the modern solution. scOS uses advanced AI to monitor your property boundaries, identifying potential threats in real-time. Instead of just filming a car theft or a burglary, scOS can autonomously trigger responses—such as activating spotlights or warning speakers—to deter criminals before they even touch your property. In a high-activity area like Redbridge, the visible and active deterrence of scOS can be the deciding factor that makes a criminal move on to a softer target.

How To Keep Safe in Redbridge

The most common crime in Redbridge is violence and sexual offences, representing 29.1% of all recorded incidents. To stay safe, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy transport hubs like Ilford station or when using the Central and Elizabeth Lines late at night. Stick to well-lit, populated routes and try to avoid walking alone in isolated areas after dark.

With vehicle crime being a major concern at 9.4% of total crime, you should take extra precautions with your car. Always ensure it is locked, use a steering wheel lock for added security, and never leave valuables like bags or electronics on display. For homeowners, the property crime rate of 37.2 per 1,000 suggests that home security should be a priority. Ensure all entry points are fitted with high-quality locks and consider a proactive security system that can alert you to suspicious activity at your property boundary. Joining a local Safer Neighbourhood Team or Neighbourhood Watch group can also provide you with real-time updates on local safety issues and help build a more secure community in Redbridge.