Salcombe Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Salcombe

Salcombe reports an overall crime rate of 42.2 per 1,000 people per year, which is considerably lower than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. With a strong safety score of 89 out of 100, surpassing the national average of 78, Salcombe is recognised as a very safe community. The latest figures show a positive decreasing trend, with a 12.3% reduction in total crimes year-over-year. This report offers a detailed analysis of crime statistics in Salcombe, including prevalent crime types, temporal patterns, and comparisons with nearby areas to provide a comprehensive understanding of local safety.

Crime Type Analysis in Salcombe

In Salcombe, Violence and sexual offences are the most frequent crime type, accounting for 38.0% of all incidents with 19 reported crimes (16.1 per 1,000 residents). This is followed by Anti-social behaviour, which constitutes 22.0% of crimes (11 incidents, 9.3 per 1,000), and Other theft, making up 14.0% of the total (7 incidents, 5.9 per 1,000).

Property-related crime in Salcombe stands at 14.3 per 1,000 residents, which is considerably lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This category includes burglary (2.5 per 1,000), other theft (5.9 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (3.4 per 1,000), shoplifting (1.7 per 1,000), and vehicle crime (0.8 per 1,000). For local residents and homeowners, these figures suggest that while property crime rates are low, awareness and preventive measures against theft and burglary remain important.

Crime Trends in Salcombe

Salcombe has experienced a positive decreasing crime trend over the past year, with a 12.3% reduction in total crimes year-over-year. Examining the monthly crime rate per 1,000 residents, the data shows fluctuations. Crime rates began at 1.7 in October 2024, remaining stable in November, then dipping to 0.8 in December. Rates generally remained low through early 2025, with a notable peak of 15.2 occurring in August 2025. This downward trend suggests an improvement in local safety, despite occasional monthly variations.

Time Patterns of Crime in Salcombe

Crime in Salcombe exhibits distinct temporal patterns. Morning hours (6am-12pm) are marked by a significant presence of theft and burglary, with some vehicle crime and other crime types. Into the afternoon (12pm-6pm), theft remains highly prevalent, with a notable amount of burglary and other crime, and some vehicle crime. As the evening progresses (6pm-12am), burglary becomes more significant, though theft, vehicle crime, and other crime types are still observed. Night-time (12am-6am) sees a high concentration of burglary, with vehicle crime, theft, and other offences also occurring.

Crime in Nearby Areas

Comparing Salcombe to its neighbouring areas offers valuable regional context. With an overall crime rate of 42.2 per 1,000 and a strong safety score of 89/100, Salcombe generally presents a similar safety profile to nearby communities such as Malborough, West Charleton, Kingsbridge, and South Milton. While specific crime figures may vary slightly between these settlements, Salcombe consistently maintains a relatively low crime rate within the wider South Hams district. This comparison helps residents understand Salcombe's safety standing relative to its immediate surroundings.

Protecting Your Property in Salcombe

With a property crime rate of 14.3 per 1,000 residents in Salcombe, considering robust home security is a prudent step. Traditional CCTV systems typically record events after they've happened, meaning you only get footage of a burglary in progress. For truly proactive protection, an AI-powered system like scOS offers a significant advantage.

scOS is designed to prevent crime before it occurs by detecting threats at your property boundary. Utilising multi-camera intelligence, it simultaneously monitors all cameras, ensuring comprehensive coverage and can even verify vehicles instantly with DVLA data. Its ability to learn your routines means it only alerts on genuine threats. Upon detection, scOS initiates an autonomous response, activating lights and engaging speakers to deter intruders, disrupting their plans within seconds. This professional-grade deterrence signals serious protection, offering a preventive solution that goes beyond merely recording incidents.