South Gloucestershire Crime Rate

Crime statistics for South Gloucestershire show an overall crime rate of 73.5 per 1,000 people, which is comfortably below the UK average of 91.7. This positive data is reflected in a safety score of 82/100, surpassing the national average of 79/100. The recent trend direction for the area is stable, with a modest 3.3% increase in incidents over the past year. These figures suggest that South Gloucestershire remains a relatively safe local authority area, benefiting from its mix of suburban and rural environments. While certain types of crime persist, the overall risk to residents is lower than in many other parts of the United Kingdom, providing a reassuring context for those living and working in the region.

South Gloucestershire is a diverse local authority area that combines bustling suburban settlements with extensive rural landscapes. It serves as a major economic hub for the South West, hosting significant employers in the aerospace, defence, and technology sectors, such as the MoD at Filton and various business parks. The area's demographics are influenced by its role as a key commuter belt for Bristol, leading to high levels of car ownership and residential density in towns like Yate and Bradley Stoke. Transport links, including the M4 and M5 motorways and major rail hubs like Bristol Parkway, contribute to a transient population and high volumes of traffic. These economic and geographic factors, alongside a mix of affluent residential pockets and large commercial zones, shape the local crime profile, which generally remains more favourable than neighbouring urban centres.

In South Gloucestershire, the crime landscape is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which constitute 40.2% of all reports. Anti-social behaviour and public order offences are the next most frequent, making up 13.5% and 9.4% respectively. These figures highlight that personal and social conduct issues are the primary focus for local police. Property crime in the district occurs at a rate of 23.6 per 1,000 people. This total includes burglary (4.3%), vehicle crime (3.7%), shoplifting (9.2%), and other forms of theft and criminal damage. For residents, while the overall risk is lower than in major cities, the prevalence of shoplifting and burglary suggests that both business and home security remain important considerations for maintaining a safe environment.

The crime trend in South Gloucestershire is currently stable, showing a 3.3% increase in total crimes compared to the previous year. A look at the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 reveals a steady pattern with a slight upward trajectory towards the end of the period. The year started with a rate of 5.7 per 1,000 in December, reaching a low of 5.1 in February 2025. Rates then hovered around the 6.0 mark for much of the spring and summer before increasing to 6.8 in October and peaking at 7.3 in November. This year-end rise suggests that the winter months may see a slight increase in reported incidents. For residents, this stable trend indicates a consistent safety environment, though the recent uptick highlights the need for continued awareness of property and personal security.

South Gloucestershire sits in a region with varied crime profiles. Most notably, it is significantly safer than the adjacent City of Bristol, which serves as the region's main urban hub and experiences much higher crime rates. Other nearby areas, such as Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, and Stroud, also report very low crime statistics, often with rates near 0.0 per 1,000 in specific datasets. Newport and the Forest of Dean similarly show lower crime levels compared to major urban centres. This positioning makes South Gloucestershire part of a generally safe corridor in the South West, offering a more tranquil residential environment while remaining close to the economic opportunities of Bristol.

With a property crime rate of 23.6 per 1,000 people, South Gloucestershire is safer than many areas, but property protection remains a priority for its many suburban residents. Traditional security systems like Ring or Nest are often reactive, providing footage only after an incident has occurred. For homeowners seeking a higher level of security, proactive protection is a more effective choice. The scOS AI-powered operating system is designed to prevent crime before it happens. By using multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's boundaries, scOS can distinguish between a delivery person and a potential threat. If a genuine threat is detected, the system can autonomously activate lights or speakers to deter the individual. This immediate intervention is crucial, as most burglars will move on if they encounter a professional, proactive security presence that eliminates the element of surprise.

How To Keep Safe in South Gloucestershire

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in South Gloucestershire, making up over 40% of the total. While the area is generally safe, residents should remain aware of personal safety. When walking in suburban areas or between towns, stick to well-lit paths and avoid secluded areas after dark. If you are using public transport, particularly late at night, try to wait in well-lit areas and stay near other people. In residential neighbourhoods, being part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme can foster a sense of community and help residents look out for one another. Additionally, ensure that your home is well-lit externally, as good lighting is a simple but effective way to deter anti-social behaviour and opportunistic crime around your property. Broadly across the local authority, staying informed about local police updates can help you remain aware of any specific issues in your immediate vicinity.