Selby Crime Rate

Crime in Selby

Selby is a relatively safe district within North Yorkshire, maintaining an overall crime rate of 72.7 per 1,000 people. This figure is notably lower than the UK national average of 93.1, contributing to a strong safety score of 83/100. The area is currently experiencing a positive trend, with crime decreasing by 5.3% year-over-year. Property crime in Selby stands at 19.5 per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 32.9. These statistics indicate that residents of Selby enjoy a more secure environment than many other parts of the UK, with both personal and property-related risks being comparatively low.

About Selby

Selby is a district in North Yorkshire defined by its mix of historic market towns, rural villages, and significant industrial sites, including major power generation facilities. The area serves as a key transport hub, with the East Coast Main Line and proximity to the A1(M) and M62 making it a popular residential choice for commuters to Leeds and York.

These transport links can contribute to the area's crime profile by allowing for greater mobility of both residents and transient individuals. The local economy is diverse, blending traditional agriculture with modern logistics and energy sectors. Population density varies significantly between the town of Selby and the surrounding rural parishes, which influences the distribution of crime. The presence of a bustling town centre with its associated retail and evening economy naturally attracts higher levels of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting compared to the quieter, more secluded villages in the district.

Crime Breakdown in Selby

In Selby, the most prevalent crime types are violence and sexual offences, which make up 35.9% of all reported incidents. Anti-social behaviour is also significant at 27.5%, followed by criminal damage and arson at 8.2%. Together, these categories represent the majority of police activity in the district, often concentrated in more populated areas.

Property crime, encompassing burglary, theft, and vehicle-related offences, occurs at a rate of 19.5 per 1,000 people. This is well below the national UK average of 32.9. Burglary and vehicle crime each account for 3.8% of the total crime in the area, while 'other theft' stands at 5.6%. For homeowners and residents, this means that while the general risk of property crime is lower than in many other parts of the country, criminal damage remains a notable concern. Maintaining basic security and being aware of opportunistic theft in public spaces are the most effective ways to mitigate these risks.

Crime Trends in Selby

The crime trend in Selby is currently decreasing, with total incidents down by 5.3% over the past 12 months. Monthly data for 2025 shows that the crime rate peaked in the summer months of June and July at 6.9 per 1,000.

Following this peak, the rate began to decline, reaching 5.8 per 1,000 by October 2025. This downward trajectory is a positive sign for the district, indicating that safety is improving. The early months of the year also showed lower activity, with February recording a low of 5.1 per 1,000. For residents, this overall reduction in crime suggests that local community safety strategies are effective and that Selby is maintaining its reputation as a secure place to live in North Yorkshire.

Nearby Areas Comparison

Selby is situated in a region that bridges North Yorkshire and the more urbanised West Yorkshire. While Selby itself maintains a crime rate of 72.7 per 1,000 people, it is often viewed as a safer alternative to the nearby cities of York and Leeds. The district's mix of rural and market town environments generally results in lower crime concentrations than these larger hubs. For those looking for a residential area with good connectivity but a lower statistical exposure to crime, Selby presents a strong option within the regional context of the North of England. Its declining crime trend further enhances its appeal compared to areas where crime may be rising.

Proactive Protection for Selby Homes

With a property crime rate of 19.5 per 1,000, Selby is a safe area, yet property owners should remain mindful of the risk of burglary and criminal damage. Traditional security systems, such as Ring or Nest, are reactive; they record footage of an incident as it happens, often after the intruder has already entered the property. For real protection, a proactive system like scOS is recommended.

scOS uses AI to monitor your property boundaries in real-time, detecting potential threats before they escalate. Its multi-camera intelligence watches all angles simultaneously, identifying suspicious activity and triggering autonomous responses like activating lights or speakers. This destroys the element of surprise that most opportunistic criminals rely on. In a commuter-heavy area like Selby, where homes may be left unattended during the day, having a system that actively prevents crime rather than just recording it provides superior peace of mind. Professional-grade AI deterrence is the most effective way to ensure your home remains safe.

How To Keep Safe in Selby

The most common crime type in Selby is violence and sexual offences. While these figures often include non-random incidents, it is important to stay vigilant in public spaces. Here are some safety tips for Selby residents.

1. When using Selby town centre during the evening, stay in well-lit areas and stick to main pedestrian routes when walking to your car or the train station.
2. Be aware of your surroundings in busy shopping areas, especially during peak times when anti-social behaviour or opportunistic theft is more likely to occur.
3. If you are a commuter, ensure your vehicle is parked in a secure, well-lit location and that no valuables are left on display, even for short periods.
4. Report any instances of anti-social behaviour or criminal damage to the local police; this information helps them target patrols to the most affected areas.
5. Trust your instincts. If a situation or a specific area feels unsafe, move towards a more populated place or a business with visible staff and CCTV.