Highfields Caldecote Crime Rate

Highfields Caldecote's crime profile is defined by a stark contrast: burglary rates are 57% above the UK average, yet the area's overall crime rate is 40% below national levels. This duality highlights the need for targeted security measures. With a safety score of 86/100, the area remains very safe, but the sharp 300% rise in ‘Other crime’—a category likely encompassing unclassified offences—raises questions about emerging trends.

Highfields Caldecote is a built-up area within South Cambridgeshire, characterised by a mix of residential properties and proximity to Cambridge. Its moderate population density and commuter-oriented infrastructure likely influence its crime profile. The area's proximity to major roads and retail hubs may contribute to property crime, while its suburban nature may temper rates of violent crime compared to denser urban centres.

The most notable finding is that burglary in Highfields Caldecote is 57% above the UK average (5.2 vs 3.3 per 1,000), despite an overall decline of 35% year-on-year. This suggests targeted efforts may be addressing repeat offenders. The area’s property crime rate (18.3 per 1,000) is 42.6% below the UK average, likely due to lower rates of vehicle crime and criminal damage. Violence and sexual offences. of all crimes, remain 31% below the UK average—possibly due to the area’s suburban character and lower population density. Anti-social behaviour is also lower than average, reflecting a community with strong local ties. However, the sharp 300% rise in ‘Other crime’—a category likely encompassing unclassified offences—raises concerns about emerging patterns, though its rate remains below the UK average.

Crime in Highfields Caldecote has decreased by 5.4% year-on-year, but this masks significant subcategory shifts. ‘Other crime’ has surged by 300%, though its rate remains below the UK average. This spike may reflect unclassified incidents or emerging patterns not yet fully understood. Meanwhile, burglary has fallen 35% YoY, possibly due to targeted policing or increased home security. The monthly trend shows a peak in June 2025 (6.9 per 1,000), likely linked to extended evenings and outdoor activity, followed by a sharp decline in October 2025 (2.8 per 1,000), tied to reduced foot traffic during that period.

How To Keep Safe in Highfields Caldecote

Residents should prioritise securing homes against burglary, given the local rate of 5.2 per 1,000—57% above the UK average. Install motion-sensor lights near entry points and use timers to simulate occupancy when away. For vehicle crime, which has risen 83% YoY, always lock vehicles even in short-term parking. Avoid leaving valuables visible in cars. For ‘Other crime’—a sharp 300% increase—stay informed about local incidents and report suspicious activity promptly to maintain community vigilance.

Crime in Highfields Caldecote follows distinct temporal patterns. Burglary peaks in the afternoon (37%) and evening (30%), aligning with times when residents are likely away from home, such as during work hours or evening social activities. Vehicle crime rises sharply at night (41%), possibly linked to increased traffic in residential areas or unsecured vehicles. Theft is most common in the morning (28%) and afternoon (29%), potentially tied to retail activity or daily routines. ‘Other crime’ spikes dramatically in the evening (40%), suggesting unclassified offences may be more prevalent during hours when visibility and community presence are lower.

Compared to nearby areas, Highfields Caldecote has a 7% higher crime rate than Cambourne (54.6 vs 51.0 per 1,000) and a 52% higher rate than Hardwick (South Cambridgeshire) (54.6 vs 36.0 per 1,000). These differences may reflect varying population densities or local amenities. Hardwick’s lower crime rate suggests it may have stronger community engagement or fewer commercial hubs.

For Highfields Caldecote residents, burglary remains the most pressing concern, with rates 57% above the UK average, scOS offers proactive boundary detection using AI to distinguish between normal activity and potential intruders. When a threat is detected, automated lighting and audio deterrents activate, reducing the likelihood of successful entry. This system is particularly effective in areas with higher burglary rates, as most opportunistic offenders abandon attempts within the first minute if detected. Cameras connected via ethernet ensure uninterrupted monitoring, and the system learns household patterns to avoid false alarms.