Waterbeach Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire, reveal a crime rate of 53.2 per 1,000 residents annually, spanning data collected from January 2025 to December 2025. This figure is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a relatively safer environment compared to many areas across the country. However, it's important to note that crime rates have been increasing, with a significant year-on-year rise of 15.0%. Understanding the nuances of these figures, including the specific types of crime prevalent, is crucial for assessing the overall safety and well-being of the community.

In Waterbeach, violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type, accounting for 41.2% of reported incidents. These were followed by anti-social behaviour (15.8%) and criminal damage and arson (12.0%). Overall property crime, at 17.4 per 1,000 residents annually, represents a significant portion of the area's crime profile. Vehicle crime and other theft also contribute to this figure, indicating a vulnerability to opportunistic offences. The relatively low rate of burglary (1.3 per 1,000) suggests that while property crime exists, it is not predominantly focused on dwelling break-ins. Understanding the demographics and local activities within Waterbeach is crucial for interpreting these statistics; a close-knit community can both deter and be affected by these trends.

The 15.0% year-on-year increase in crime across Waterbeach is a concerning trend. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 reveals fluctuations throughout the year. Peaks were observed in February (5.8 per 1,000/month) and July (6.6 per 1,000/month), while lower rates were recorded in March (2.4 per 1,000/month) and October (4.3 per 1,000/month). While December shows a return to earlier monthly rates (3.6 per 1,000/month), the overall upward trajectory demands attention and proactive community safety measures. This increase underscores the need for residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

How To Keep Safe in Waterbeach

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences in Waterbeach, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night. Avoid walking through poorly lit areas and consider travelling in groups when possible. Due to the significant anti-social behaviour incidents, report any suspicious activity to the authorities promptly. With vehicle crime being a factor, ensure your vehicle is locked and any valuables are out of sight. Finally, be mindful of your belongings in public spaces to minimise the risk of theft.

Crimes in Waterbeach tend to follow a pattern influenced by daily routines. Burglaries are most likely to occur in the morning (6am-12pm) and afternoon (12pm-6pm). Theft is more common during commercial hours, particularly in the afternoon. Vehicle crime is notably higher overnight (12am-6am), suggesting opportunistic targeting. Evening hours (6pm-12am) see a rise in public order offences and, to a lesser extent, theft, potentially linked to increased social activity.

When comparing Waterbeach to its neighbours, the crime rate presents a varied picture. Landbeach and Horningsea both report a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000, indicating exceptionally low levels of recorded crime. Milton (South Cambridgeshire) experiences a significantly higher rate at 118.1 per 1,000, highlighting a stark contrast. Cottenham’s rate of 54.9 per 1,000 is closer to Waterbeach’s, suggesting a similar level of risk within the surrounding region. These comparisons demonstrate the localised nature of crime and the importance of considering specific area characteristics.

Traditional CCTV systems often serve as a reactive measure – recording incidents after they’ve occurred. However, in an area like Waterbeach, where crime rates are on the rise, proactive protection is essential. Consider a system like scOS, which uses AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary before they escalate. scOS’s multi-camera intelligence constantly monitors your property, verifying deliveries and recognising family members, only alerting you to genuine risks. The DVLA vehicle verification feature can instantly identify suspicious vehicles, and the autonomous response system—activating lights and speakers—creates a powerful deterrent. While DIY security systems have their place, scOS's professional-grade equipment and AI-powered prevention offer a significantly enhanced level of protection, making that critical 60-second decision for potential intruders – they move on.