Southampton Crime Rate

Southampton has an overall crime rate of 130.9 per 1,000 residents, which is notably higher than the UK average of 91.7. This is reflected in a safety score of 67/100, placing the city below the national average for security. The recent trend data shows that the crime environment is stable, with a 1.7% decrease in total offences year-over-year. As a major port and university city, Southampton faces the typical challenges of a busy urban hub, including significant levels of violent crime and shoplifting. This report examines the statistics from December 2024 to November 2025 to provide a detailed understanding of the local safety landscape for residents and businesses.

Southampton is a major port city on the south coast of England, serving as a significant economic hub for the region. Its characteristics as a major cruise ship terminal, a university city with two large institutions, and a regional shopping destination (centred on Westquay) all influence its crime statistics. The city has a high transient population of students and tourists, which can contribute to higher reporting of certain crime types. The vibrant night-time economy, particularly in the city centre and around the universities, is a factor in anti-social behaviour and violent offences. Furthermore, as a major transport hub with significant industrial and commercial zones, Southampton faces the typical criminal challenges of a large, active urban environment with high footfall and diverse economic activities.

In Southampton, violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes, accounting for 42.6% of all incidents (55.8 per 1,000 residents). Shoplifting is the second most common, representing 9.8% of the total, followed closely by anti-social behaviour at 9.7%. Public order offences also make up a significant portion of local crime at 7.8%.

Property-related crime in Southampton is a notable concern for residents, with a combined rate of 43.6 per 1,000 people. This total includes burglary (3.5% of total crime), vehicle crime (5.2%), and other theft (5.3%). For homeowners, the data suggests that while violent crime is the most frequent category, the risk of property theft and vehicle-related offences is substantial. The high rate of shoplifting indicates a significant level of business-related crime in the city's commercial districts. Overall, the statistics highlight the need for residents to be aware of their personal safety in public and to employ effective security measures to protect their homes and vehicles.

The crime trend in Southampton is currently stable, with a 1.7% decrease in total offences over the past 12 months. Analysis of the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025 reveals a relatively consistent pattern. Crime rates were at their lowest in February 2025 and November 2025 (both at 10.1 per 1,000 residents). The rate peaked in the summer, reaching a high of 12.1 in July 2025. This summer peak is common in urban areas and may be linked to increased footfall from tourists and students. Overall, the data suggests that crime levels in Southampton are remaining consistent with the previous year's figures, with minor seasonal fluctuations throughout the year.

When compared to the surrounding Hampshire region, Southampton's crime rate of 130.9 per 1,000 residents highlights its position as a major urban centre. Nearby local authorities such as Eastleigh, Fareham, New Forest, Winchester, Gosport, and Test Valley all have reporting lags showing 0.0 in the current data period. Historically, these surrounding areas experience much lower crime rates than the city of Southampton itself. For those living or working in the region, Southampton offers a safety profile typical of a large port city, where the concentration of commerce, nightlife, and transport hubs leads to higher crime volumes than the more suburban or rural neighbouring districts.

With a property crime rate of 43.6 per 1,000 residents, Southampton homeowners face a statistically significant risk of burglary, theft, and vehicle crime. Traditional security measures, such as basic CCTV or DIY alarms, are often reactive—they provide evidence after the damage has been done. In a busy city like Southampton, where opportunistic theft is a known issue, reactive recording is rarely enough to prevent loss.

scOS offers a proactive alternative by using AI-powered multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's boundaries in real-time. It can distinguish between residents, delivery drivers, and genuine threats, triggering autonomous responses like high-intensity lighting and audible warnings to deter criminals before they can act. For Southampton residents, moving from reactive recording to proactive prevention is the most effective way to secure their homes and vehicles against the local prevalence of property-related offences. By stopping threats at the perimeter, scOS provides a level of security that traditional systems simply cannot match, ensuring that your home remains a safe haven.

How To Keep Safe in Southampton

The most common crime type in Southampton is violence and sexual offences, which accounts for over 42% of local incidents. To enhance your personal safety in this major port city, consider the following practical steps:

1. Be vigilant when visiting busy shopping areas like Westquay or the city centre, and keep your personal belongings secure to prevent opportunistic theft.
2. Stick to well-lit, busy streets when walking at night, especially in areas with a high concentration of bars and restaurants.
3. If you are a student or visitor, familiarise yourself with the city's safe routes and use licensed taxi services for late-night travel.
4. When using public transport or visiting transport hubs like the ferry terminals or train stations, be mindful of your surroundings and keep your bags zipped and close to your body.
5. Consider joining a local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to stay informed about crime trends in your specific part of the city and to share safety tips with neighbours.