Whitby Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Whitby, within the Scarborough district, reveal a crime rate of 85.4 incidents per 1,000 residents over the period of January 2025 to December 2025. This is slightly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. While the overall safety score stands at 80 out of 100, indicating a relatively safe area, there has been an upward trend in crime, increasing by 8.7% year-on-year. This increase warrants closer examination of the specific crime types contributing to this rise and understanding the factors influencing safety within the community. A breakdown of the data shows the most prevalent offences relate to violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and criminal damage.

Whitby, within the Scarborough district, exhibits a concerning crime profile. The highest reported crime types are violence and sexual offences (567 incidents), accounting for 38.2% of all recorded crimes, followed by anti-social behaviour (399 incidents, 26.9%). Criminal damage and arson contribute significantly (116 incidents), alongside shoplifting (112 incidents) and public order offences (84 incidents). While burglary is relatively low compared to other areas, it still represents a concern. The prevalence of these crimes likely stems from a combination of factors including the town’s popularity as a tourist destination, which can attract petty crime, and the socio-economic conditions affecting some residents. The close-knit community and historic nature of Whitby contribute to a complex social landscape influencing crime patterns.

Crime rates in Whitby have been steadily increasing, with an 8.7% year-on-year rise as of December 2025. This upward trend is evident when reviewing the monthly crime data. While January 2025 saw a relatively low rate of 7.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, the rate spiked to 10.1 per 1,000 in July 2025, before falling slightly in subsequent months. The fluctuations likely reflect seasonal variations in tourism and other local factors. However, the overall trajectory remains concerning, demanding proactive community engagement and targeted crime prevention strategies.

How To Keep Safe in Whitby

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s advisable to be particularly vigilant when out alone, especially at night. Avoid walking in poorly lit or isolated areas. Due to the frequency of anti-social behaviour, report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly. With criminal damage and arson being a concern, ensure your property is well-secured and any potential fire hazards are addressed. Finally, be mindful of your belongings in public spaces to avoid becoming a target for theft.

Criminal activity in Whitby exhibits varying patterns throughout the day. Burglaries are most frequently reported during the afternoon (12pm - 6pm), with a notable concentration during the morning hours (6am - 12pm). Vehicle crime tends to peak during the overnight hours (12am - 6am). Theft is most prevalent during commercial hours, spanning from the morning to the afternoon. Public order offences and other crimes are more common during the evening hours (6pm - 12am), suggesting a correlation with increased social activity. These trends highlight the importance of targeted preventative measures at different times of the day.

Comparing Whitby's crime rate to neighbouring areas, Sleights records a significantly higher rate of 32.3 per 1,000, while Sneatonthorpe, Fylingthorpe, and Robin Hood's Bay report virtually no recorded crime. This disparity highlights the unique challenges Whitby faces, potentially influenced by its popularity as a tourist destination and its distinct demographic profile. The lower crime rates in the surrounding areas offer a contrasting perspective, but it’s important to consider the differing characteristics and population densities of each location.

Traditional CCTV systems often provide recordings after a crime has occurred. In Whitby, where crime rates are rising, a proactive approach is crucial. scOS offers a different paradigm – it prevents crime before it happens. Using AI, scOS monitors all cameras simultaneously, instantly verifying vehicles with DVLA records and learning your family's routines. For example, if an unfamiliar vehicle approaches your property, scOS will immediately activate lights and speakers, creating a deterrent effect. The visible presence of professional-grade security signals a serious commitment to protection, potentially influencing a burglar’s decision-making process within that critical 60-second window. Reading crime statistics is one thing; actively protecting your property is another.