Southampton Crime Rate

Understanding Crime Statistics in Southampton

Southampton records an overall crime rate of 132.1 per 1,000 residents annually, positioning it above the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. The property crime rate in the area is 43.6 per 1,000, which is also higher than the national average of 33.2 per 1,000. With a safety score of 67 out of 100, Southampton sits below the UK average safety score of 78, indicating a need for residents to be aware of local crime trends. Over the past year, the crime rate in Southampton has remained stable, showing a marginal decrease of 0.6% year-over-year. This introduction provides a snapshot of the current crime landscape, with further sections delving into specific crime types, trends, and comparisons with neighbouring areas.

About Southampton

Southampton, a prominent port city on England's south coast, is a vibrant urban centre with a diverse population of over 259,000 residents. Its characteristics as a major commercial hub, a significant university city, and a popular cruise terminal contribute to a dynamic environment that can influence crime statistics. The city's extensive retail areas, bustling nightlife, and numerous transport links, including a busy port and railway station, attract both residents and a transient population. While these elements foster economic activity and cultural richness, they can also present opportunities for certain types of crime, such as theft and anti-social behaviour. Understanding these underlying factors provides context to the crime rates and safety score observed in the area.

Crime Type Analysis in Southampton

An analysis of crime types in Southampton reveals that Violence and sexual offences constitute the most significant category, accounting for 42.7% of all reported crimes, with a rate of 56.4 per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting follows as the second most prevalent crime, making up 10.0% of the total at 13.3 per 1,000, reflecting challenges faced by local businesses. Anti-social behaviour ranks third, representing 9.6% of crimes with a rate of 12.7 per 1,000, impacting community well-being.

Focusing on property-related crime, Southampton recorded a rate of 43.6 per 1,000 residents. This encompasses a range of offences including burglary (4.5 per 1,000), vehicle crime (6.4 per 1,000), other theft (7.0 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson (8.5 per 1,000), bicycle theft (1.5 per 1,000), robbery (1.3 per 1,000), and theft from the person (1.1 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these figures highlight the importance of securing properties and being vigilant, particularly against theft and vehicle-related offences, which collectively form a substantial portion of the area's crime profile.

Crime Trends in Southampton

Over the past year, Southampton has experienced a stable crime trend, with a minor year-over-year decrease of 0.6%. This indicates that the overall crime situation has remained relatively consistent. Examining the monthly crime rate per 1,000 residents provides further insight into these patterns. The crime rate fluctuated throughout the year, with notable figures such as 11.3 in October 2024, dipping to 10.1 in February 2025, and then seeing a slight increase to 12.1 in July 2025. This fluctuation, while not indicative of a dramatic shift, suggests seasonal variations or specific local events may influence crime levels. Residents should be aware that while the overall trend is stable, monthly figures can see minor peaks and troughs, making ongoing vigilance important.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

When comparing Southampton's crime statistics with its neighbouring local authority districts, a regional context emerges. Southampton's overall crime rate of 132.1 per 1,000 is higher than that of Eastleigh, Fareham, New Forest, Winchester, Gosport, and Test Valley. For instance, areas like New Forest and Test Valley typically exhibit lower crime rates due to their more rural or suburban characteristics. Winchester, while having its own urban centre, often presents a different crime profile. Eastleigh, Fareham, and Gosport, as more urbanised areas in proximity, might share some similarities in crime challenges but generally maintain lower rates than Southampton. This comparison is vital for residents to understand Southampton's position within the wider region and to inform decisions regarding safety and property protection.

Protecting Your Property in Southampton

Given Southampton's property crime rate of 43.6 per 1,000 residents, proactive home security measures are a crucial consideration for homeowners and residents. Traditional security cameras often only provide footage after a burglary has occurred, acting as a reactive recording device rather than a preventative one. If you are seeking to genuinely prevent crime at your property, consider systems that offer proactive protection.

An AI-powered home security operating system like scOS is designed to detect threats at your property boundary before a break-in can even happen. Unlike conventional DIY systems that might notify you after the fact, scOS intervenes in real-time. By watching all cameras simultaneously, learning your routines, and activating lights or speakers to engage intruders, it aims to destroy the element of surprise that burglars rely on. Most burglars make a decision within 60 seconds; visible, professional-grade deterrence makes them move on. While basic DIY solutions have their place, a professional system focused on prevention can significantly enhance your property's security and offer true peace of mind against the types of property crime seen in Southampton.