South Oxfordshire Crime Rate

South Oxfordshire remains one of the safest districts in the country, as reflected by its high safety score of 89/100. The area's overall crime rate is 46.5 per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.7. Recent data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows a positive trend, with total crime decreasing by 5.1% year-over-year. Property crime is also notably low at 16.3 per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 32.3. While violence and anti-social behaviour are the most commonly reported issues, the low rates of burglary and vehicle crime highlight South Oxfordshire as a secure and stable region for its 156,470 residents.

South Oxfordshire is a predominantly rural and affluent district, characterised by its historic market towns such as Henley-on-Thames, Thame, and Didcot, alongside numerous picturesque villages. The area’s characteristics significantly influence its crime statistics; its high levels of affluence and desirable residential properties can occasionally attract opportunistic property crime. Major transport links, including the M40 and rail hubs in Didcot, provide easy access for commuters but also potentially for transient populations. The district hosts significant employment sectors in science and technology, particularly around the Culham and Harwell Science Zones. Tourism also plays a role, especially during major events like the Henley Royal Regatta, which can lead to temporary fluctuations in anti-social behaviour and theft. Overall, the combination of a largely stable, high-income population and a proactive community spirit contributes to the area's strong safety score and relatively low crime rates compared to more urbanised local authorities.

In South Oxfordshire, the most frequent crime type is violence and sexual offences, which accounts for 40.5% of all reported incidents, with 2,949 recorded cases. This is followed by anti-social behaviour at 11.3% and criminal damage and arson at 8.2%. These figures indicate that while personal safety is the primary statistical focus, the majority of police activity is related to social conduct and non-property offences.

Property-related crime—including burglary, vehicle crime, theft, and shoplifting—maintains a significant presence with a combined rate of 16.3 per 1,000 residents. Within this category, 'other theft' (581 cases) and shoplifting (530 cases) are the most frequent, often concentrated in the district's commercial and retail centres. Burglary rates are relatively low at 1.9 per 1,000 people, representing 4.2% of total crime. For homeowners, this means that while the risk of a break-in is much lower than the national average, protecting property against opportunistic theft and vehicle crime (389 cases) remains a priority. The data suggests that residential security is generally high, but vigilance in town centres and regarding vehicle safety is still necessary.

The crime trend in South Oxfordshire is positive, with a 5.1% decrease in total crime over the last 12 months. Monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 shows the crime rate remaining relatively stable, with minor fluctuations between 3.4 and 4.6 per 1,000 residents each month.

The highest rate was recorded in July 2025 at 4.6, which is typical for the summer months when social activity increases. However, the year ended with a lower rate of 3.6 in November. This consistent and decreasing trend suggests that South Oxfordshire is successfully managing its safety profile. For residents, this reinforces the district's status as a safe place to live. Continued vigilance is always advised, but the long-term data indicates a community that is becoming increasingly secure. The stability of the monthly figures is a strong sign of a safe and well-policed local authority area.

South Oxfordshire is a standout district for safety within the region. When compared to nearby urban centres like Oxford and Reading, which often experience higher crime rates due to their larger populations and commercial density, South Oxfordshire offers a much more secure environment. It also compares favourably to neighbouring West Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. While it may have slightly more recorded activity than its most rural neighbour, the Vale of White Horse, it remains an exceptionally safe area. The district's mix of market towns and rural villages provides a high level of safety that is superior to the UK average, making it a highly desirable location for those prioritising security.

With a property crime rate of 16.3 per 1,000, South Oxfordshire is a safe district, but the presence of opportunistic theft and vehicle crime indicates that offenders are active. Traditional security systems like basic CCTV or Ring cameras are reactive; they record footage of a crime while it happens. In an area this safe, the goal of security should be to maintain that status by preventing even the rarest of incidents.

A proactive AI-powered system like scOS is the modern solution for high-safety areas. By using multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's boundary 24/7, scOS can detect a potential intruder before they attempt a break-in. Features like autonomous light and sound deterrence can warn off a curious individual before they even reach your door. For South Oxfordshire residents, scOS provides a level of intelligent protection that traditional systems cannot, ensuring that your home remains as secure as the statistics suggest it should be. This proactive approach is particularly effective in rural or semi-rural settings where police response times can vary.

How To Keep Safe in South Oxfordshire

South Oxfordshire is a very safe district, but the most prevalent crime type is violence and sexual offences (40.5%). This is often related to domestic or private incidents, but general safety awareness is always good across the local authority area.

• Vehicle Security: Vehicle crime accounts for 5.3% of local incidents. Always ensure your car is locked, windows are closed, and no valuables are left on display, particularly when parked in town centres or at rural trailheads.
• Theft Prevention: Other theft accounts for 8.0% of local incidents. Ensure personal belongings are not left unattended in public spaces and secure any items kept in gardens or outbuildings.
• Home Security Awareness: While burglary is low (4.2%), ensure your home is well-secured. Use motion-sensor lights on driveways and near entry points to deter opportunistic intruders.
• Report ASB: Anti-social behaviour makes up 11.3% of local crime. Reporting incidents to the local council or police helps ensure that public spaces in our market towns remain welcoming for everyone.
• Join Neighbourhood Watch: Engaging with your neighbours and joining a local watch scheme is one of the most effective ways to maintain South Oxfordshire's high safety standards across its many communities.