South Gloucestershire Crime Rate

South Gloucestershire recorded a crime rate of 75.9 per 1,000 residents in February 2026, 16.5% below the UK average. While the area is generally safer than most of the UK, public order crimes are 12% higher than the national average. This contrast highlights the area's unique balance of urban and rural characteristics, where community-focused initiatives coexist with occasional spikes in disorder-related incidents.

South Gloucestershire's crime profile reflects its blend of suburban communities, historic market towns, and proximity to major cities like Bristol. The area's lower-than-average property crime rates—24.6% below the UK average—likely benefit from well-maintained housing stock and strong community cohesion. However, public order crimes, such as anti-social behaviour and disorder, are elevated by 12% compared to the UK average. This may be linked to the presence of mixed-use developments in areas like Yate and Thornbury, where commercial and residential zones intersect. The area's commuter belt status also contributes to shoplifting incidents in retail hubs like Filton and Patchway, though these remain below the UK average. The rise in drugs-related crimes, despite remaining below the UK average, could reflect evolving patterns in illicit activity or increased reporting in specific sub-areas.

The most surprising finding is that public order crimes—such as anti-social behaviour and disorder—are 12% higher than the UK average in South Gloucestershire (7.0 vs 6.3 per 1,000). This may be attributed to the area's mix of urban and semi-rural environments, where transient populations and mixed-use zones can foster occasional disorder. Meanwhile, the sharp 78% year-on-year increase in drugs-related crimes (1.7 per 1,000) remains puzzling, despite remaining below the UK average. This could reflect evolving patterns in illicit activity or increased reporting in specific sub-areas. Violence and sexual offences (30.7 per 1,000) are 4% below the UK average, likely due to the area's lower population density and strong community policing efforts. Shoplifting (7.0 per 1,000) is also 6% below the UK average, suggesting effective retail security measures in areas like Filton and Patchway. The 5% rise in anti-social behaviour, though still below the UK average, may be linked to the area's growing student population in nearby educational institutions, which can contribute to transient social dynamics. Burglary rates, 5% above the UK average (3.5 vs 3.3 per 1,000), may be influenced by the presence of older housing stock in certain parts of the area, where security measures may lag behind newer developments.

Crime in South Gloucestershire rose by 5.7% year-on-year, with a distinct seasonal pattern. Monthly data shows a sharp peak in November 2025 (7.3 per 1,000), likely driven by increased foot traffic during festive events and longer evenings. The 78% increase in drugs-related crimes is particularly striking. This rise may be linked to targeted enforcement efforts or shifts in illicit activity patterns. Meanwhile, anti-social behaviour increased by 28% year-on-year, but still remains 29% below the UK average. The area's lower population density and strong community policing likely contribute to the relatively stable rates of violence and sexual offences, which are 4% below the UK average. Shoplifting has remained stable, suggesting effective retail security measures in key areas like Filton and Patchway.

Compared to nearby areas, South Gloucestershire's crime rate of 75.9 per 1,000 is 24% higher than Stroud (61.4 per 1,000) and 31% higher than Forest of Dean (58.0 per 1,000). However, it is 10% lower than Bath and North East Somerset (83.7 per 1,000). This variation likely reflects differences in urban density, economic activity, and population demographics, with more rural areas like Forest of Dean experiencing lower crime rates due to lower population density.

Home security is essential in South Gloucestershire, particularly in areas with higher burglary rates (3.5 per 1,000, 5% above the UK average). scOS provides proactive boundary detection that identifies threats at the property perimeter before a break-in occurs, reducing the risk of intrusion. Its AI distinguishes household members and regular visitors from potential threats, minimizing false alarms. Automated lighting and speaker activation can deter intruders, offering a proportionate level of protection without compromising the area's low crime rate. For areas with elevated public order issues, scOS's multi-camera monitoring ensures comprehensive coverage, helping residents stay informed about activity around their homes.

How To Keep Safe in South Gloucestershire

Residents in South Gloucestershire should focus on securing properties against burglary, which is 5% above the UK average. Installing robust locks and motion-sensor lighting can deter opportunistic thieves. In areas with higher public order concerns, reporting anti-social behaviour promptly to local authorities can help maintain community safety. Retailers should continue maintaining existing security measures, such as CCTV and staff training, to combat shoplifting, which remains 6% below the UK average. For households in areas with rising drugs-related crimes, staying informed about local initiatives and reporting suspicious activity can contribute to reducing illicit activity in the community.