South Oxfordshire Crime Rate

South Oxfordshire is a very safe district with a crime rate of 46.5 per 1,000 residents, which is nearly half the UK average of 91.6. The area maintains an impressive safety score of 89/100, reflecting its secure and stable nature. Recent data shows that the crime trend is stable, with a minor 4.6% decrease year-over-year. The local crime profile is primarily led by violence and sexual offences and anti-social behaviour, while criminal damage and arson and various forms of theft also feature in the top categories. Property-related crime is a tangible factor across the district, with a rate of 16.3 per 1,000. This analysis explores the specific crime types, regional trends, and safety context of South Oxfordshire to help residents understand their local security environment.

South Oxfordshire is a predominantly rural and affluent district, characterised by historic market towns like Henley-on-Thames, Thame, and Wallingford, alongside numerous picturesque villages. Its economic profile is strong, with high employment rates and a significant presence in science and technology sectors. The area's transport links, including the M40 and proximity to the Great Western Main Line, make it a popular residential choice for professionals. These characteristics generally contribute to a lower crime rate than more densely populated urban centres. However, its affluence can sometimes attract property-related crime, particularly in more isolated rural locations. The district also experiences seasonal fluctuations in crime linked to major events and tourism, such as the Henley Royal Regatta. The transient population during these periods can influence local statistics, particularly in categories like anti-social behaviour and theft. Overall, the combination of a stable, prosperous population and professional-led demographics helps maintain South Oxfordshire's status as a high-safety area within the Thames Valley region.

South Oxfordshire's crime profile is led by violence and sexual offences (40.7%), anti-social behaviour (11.3%), and criminal damage and arson (8.2%). Property-related crime overall—including burglary, various thefts, and vehicle offences—stands at a rate of 16.3 per 1,000 residents. Other theft (8.0%) and shoplifting (7.2%) are also significant factors. Burglary itself accounts for 4.4% of total crime, with a rate of 2.0 per 1,000. For residents, this indicates that while personal safety and community conduct are the primary statistical concerns, property-targeted offences are a consistent regional factor. Homeowners should be aware that theft and burglary combined represent a tangible risk, particularly in an affluent area where high-value items may be targeted. Proactive security measures are advisable across the district to protect residential properties and businesses from opportunistic crime.

South Oxfordshire's crime trend is currently stable, with a slight 4.6% reduction in reported incidents year-over-year. Monthly data for 2025 shows a consistent pattern with no major spikes. The highest crime rate was recorded in July at 4.6 per 1,000, while the lowest rate occurred in December at 3.4. For most of the year, the rate fluctuated narrowly between 3.6 and 4.4. This stability suggests a predictable and secure environment for the district's residents. The lack of significant seasonal variations, other than a minor mid-summer increase, indicates that South Oxfordshire is maintaining its status as a high-safety region. Residents can be reassured that the local safety profile remains strong and consistent.

South Oxfordshire is situated in a region with generally low crime rates. When compared to its neighbours, it maintains a strong safety profile. While this specific dataset lists zero crimes for neighbouring Oxford, Reading, West Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Wokingham, and the Vale of White Horse, South Oxfordshire's rate of 46.5 per 1,000 remains exceptionally low by national standards. For those considering the Thames Valley region, South Oxfordshire offers a secure residential environment that is significantly safer than many other parts of the UK, with market towns and rural villages that consistently report low levels of serious crime.

In South Oxfordshire, the property crime rate is 16.3 per 1,000, with theft, shoplifting, and criminal damage being significant considerations. While the burglary rate is low at 2.0 per 1,000, the affluent nature of the district means that residential properties can still be attractive targets for opportunistic criminals. Traditional security systems are often reactive—they record footage of a crime that has already occurred. For South Oxfordshire residents, proactive protection is a more effective strategy. The scOS AI-powered operating system is designed to stop crime before it happens. By using multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's perimeter, scOS can identify potential threats in real-time. It can distinguish between a resident and a stranger loitering near an outbuilding or entrance, triggering autonomous responses like lighting or audio alerts to deter an intruder before they reach your home. This professional-grade deterrence is essential for preventing burglary and theft, ensuring your property remains a hard target.

How To Keep Safe in South Oxfordshire

Violence and sexual offences are the most common reports in South Oxfordshire. To help maintain your personal safety and the security of your property across the local authority area, consider the following tips:

• Stay aware of your surroundings when walking in town centres or through rural areas, particularly in the evening. Stick to well-lit routes and avoid isolated shortcuts.
• If you are out late, use a personal safety app or let someone know your expected arrival time.
• Given that theft and burglary are regional factors, ensure your home and any outbuildings are fully secured with high-quality locks.
• Install motion-sensor lighting around your property. This not only improves your own safety but also acts as a deterrent for potential intruders.
• Report any anti-social behaviour to the local police. This information helps them allocate patrols and maintain the community's safety across the district.
• In rural locations, ensure farm equipment and vehicles are securely stored and marked, as these can be targets for theft.