Richmond upon Thames Crime Rate

Richmond upon Thames is one of the safest and most desirable boroughs in London, with an overall crime rate of 75.1 per 1,000 people. This figure is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.7, contributing to a high safety score of 84/100. The area's crime profile is stable, showing a modest 3.6% decrease over the past year. This consistency makes it an attractive location for families and professionals seeking a secure suburban environment within the capital. While property crime rates are slightly above the national average, largely driven by vehicle crime, the borough remains a low-risk area for most types of offences. The following analysis breaks down the specific crime types and trends to provide a clear picture of the local safety environment.

About Richmond upon Thames

Richmond upon Thames is one of London's most affluent and desirable boroughs, characterised by its extensive green spaces, historic landmarks, and high-quality residential areas. Home to Richmond Park, Kew Gardens, and Hampton Court Palace, the area attracts significant tourism, which can influence certain crime statistics like shoplifting and opportunistic theft. The borough is primarily residential but features vibrant commercial centres in Richmond, Twickenham, and Teddington.

The demographic profile is largely affluent and family-oriented, with a high proportion of professional residents. These factors contribute to a safety score that is significantly higher than the London and UK averages. However, the borough's wealth and high vehicle ownership also make it a potential target for property-related offences, particularly vehicle crime and burglary. The presence of major transport hubs and its proximity to Heathrow also result in a transient population that can impact public order and anti-social behaviour figures. Overall, Richmond upon Thames' crime rate reflects its status as a safe, prosperous suburban borough that manages the challenges of being a major metropolitan destination.

Crime Breakdown for Richmond upon Thames

In Richmond upon Thames, violence and sexual offences represent the largest category of reported crime, accounting for 22.3% of all incidents, or 16.8 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is a close second at 20.7%, while vehicle crime is the third most common at 10.8%. These figures highlight that while the borough is generally very safe, public order and vehicle-related issues are the most frequent concerns for the local community.

Property crime in Richmond upon Thames occurs at a rate of 34.6 per 1,000 people, which is slightly above the UK average of 32.3. This total includes vehicle crime (10.8%), shoplifting (8.2%), and burglary (6.5%). For residents and homeowners, this suggests that property security is a relevant consideration, particularly given the borough's high vehicle crime rate. Burglary alone accounts for 955 incidents annually, indicating that even in an affluent area, homes remain targets. The prevalence of shoplifting and other theft (7.3%) further underscores the importance of vigilance in commercial areas and the need for robust home and vehicle protection.

Crime Trends in Richmond upon Thames

The crime trend in Richmond upon Thames is currently stable, with a year-over-year decrease of 3.6%. This suggests that the borough is successfully maintaining its high safety standards and that there have been no significant surges in criminal activity over the last twelve months.

Looking at the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025, the crime rate has remained remarkably consistent, typically hovering between 5.1 and 7.5 per 1,000 residents. The lowest point of activity was recorded in February 2025 (5.1), while the middle of the year saw a slight increase, peaking at 7.5 in May. This minor seasonal rise in the spring and summer months is often linked to increased public activity in the borough's many parks and open spaces. Despite these small monthly fluctuations, the overall stability of the figures indicates that the risk levels for residents remain low and predictable throughout the year.

Richmond upon Thames is situated in a relatively low-crime part of London. When compared to similar nearby areas like Kingston upon Thames, Wandsworth, Hounslow, and Merton, it holds a strong position as a safe borough. While some surrounding areas like Hammersmith and Fulham and Kensington and Chelsea also report low crime figures in this period, Richmond's rate of 75.1 is particularly impressive given its significant residential and tourist populations. This regional context highlights the borough as a secure choice for those looking to live in South West London, balancing high-quality urban living with a generally safe and stable environment.

Homeowners in Richmond upon Thames benefit from a borough that is generally safe, yet the property crime rate of 34.6 per 1,000 still necessitates effective security. Traditional security measures, such as basic alarms or DIY cameras, are often reactive. They notify you after a window has been smashed or a car has been broken into, providing footage of the event but failing to prevent the loss.

For those seeking a higher level of protection, the scOS artificial intelligence system offers a proactive solution. Rather than just recording, scOS uses AI to monitor your property's boundaries in real-time. It learns to recognise your family and routines, ensuring that you are only alerted to genuine threats. If an unidentified individual enters your property boundary, the system can autonomously activate deterrents like lighting or speakers. This immediate response often convinces potential burglars or car thieves to move on before they even attempt a crime. In a borough where vehicle crime is a notable factor, scOS provides the professional-grade security needed to maintain peace of mind.

How To Keep Safe in Richmond upon Thames

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in the borough, particularly in busier urban areas. To stay safe, it is recommended to stay alert when walking in the evenings, particularly near transport hubs or areas with high nightlife activity. Always use well-lit pedestrian routes and avoid poorly lit parks or alleyways. When using public transport late at night, wait in well-lit areas and try to travel with others if possible.

Vehicle crime is also a notable factor, so car owners should take extra care to secure their vehicles. Always ensure that your car is locked and that no valuables are left on display, even for short periods. If possible, park in a well-lit driveway or a secure garage. Anti-social behaviour is also present, so being mindful of your surroundings in public spaces is advised. If you witness persistent issues, reporting them to the local council or police helps ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed. Finally, always keep your personal belongings secure and out of sight when in busy tourist areas to prevent opportunistic theft.