Oakham Crime Rate

Oakham's crime rate of 48.4 per 1,000 residents is 47% below the UK average, making it one of the safest areas in the UK. While shoplifting has risen by 63.6% YoY, it remains well below national levels. The town's safety score of 89/100 highlights its relatively low crime profile compared to the UK average of 79/100.

Oakham is a historic market town in Rutland, known for its mix of traditional architecture, local businesses, and proximity to rural landscapes. As a built-up area, it serves as a commuter hub for nearby towns and villages. Its relatively low population density compared to larger cities may contribute to lower overall crime rates, though retail activity and community dynamics play a role in shaping specific crime types like shoplifting and anti-social behaviour.

The most surprising finding in Oakham's crime data is the significant rise in shoplifting (+63.6% YoY), despite remaining 19% below the UK average. This may reflect increased foot traffic in local retail areas or seasonal factors. Violence and sexual offences, though 35.5% of all crimes, are 47% below the UK average, likely due to the town's smaller population and community-focused policing. Anti-social behaviour, at 8.7 per 1,000, is also notably lower than the UK average, possibly linked to effective local initiatives. Property crime, while lower than average, remains a concern, with vehicle crime (1.3 per 1,000) and burglary (1.4 per 1,000) both below UK levels, suggesting safer residential areas.

Oakham's crime rate remained stable (-3.1% YoY) over the past year, with theft from the person increasing sharply by 66.7% despite remaining 81% below the UK average. This rise may be linked to seasonal factors or increased public activity in specific areas. Shoplifting also rose by 63.6% YoY, likely due to heightened retail activity during key periods. Other crime types, including burglary and vehicle crime, have decreased, suggesting targeted local efforts have had a positive impact on reducing certain crime categories.

How To Keep Safe in Oakham

Stay vigilant in retail areas, where shoplifting has risen by 63.6% YoY. Avoid walking alone in isolated parking areas at night, as vehicle crime spikes during these hours. Use well-lit routes during evening hours, especially between 6pm and 12am, when theft and other crimes are more common. Engage with local community initiatives to foster safer neighbourhoods and report suspicious activity promptly.

Crime in Oakham peaks during afternoon hours (12pm-6pm), with theft accounting for nearly half of all incidents in this period. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), likely tied to isolated parking areas or low-light conditions. Morning hours (6am-12pm) see lower crime rates, but burglary accounts for 9% of incidents, possibly due to early-morning intrusions. Evening activity (6pm-12am) shows a mixed pattern, with theft and other crimes contributing to moderate levels, though not as pronounced as in larger urban areas.

Compared to nearby areas, Oakham's crime rate is 20% higher than Barleythorpe (40.2 per 1,000) and 39% higher than Langham (Rutland) (34.8 per 1,000). However, both Barleythorpe and Langham have lower crime rates than Oakham, with Langham being the safest neighbour in the region.

For home security in Oakham, consider AI-powered systems that detect threats at the property perimeter before intrusions occur. Given the town's lower burglary rates (1.4 per 1,000), proactive boundary detection can deter potential offenders. Multi-camera monitoring is also effective for areas with rising shoplifting rates, covering retail zones and high-traffic areas. These systems distinguish between household members and intruders, reducing false alarms and enhancing safety.