Houghton-le-Spring Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Houghton-le-Spring

Houghton-le-Spring, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 11,399, experiences an overall crime rate of 117.1 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is higher than the UK average crime rate of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a greater incidence of crime compared to the national benchmark. The property crime rate stands at 46.0 per 1,000 people, also exceeding the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. Houghton-le-Spring holds a safety score of 75 out of 100, which is slightly below the UK average of 78, suggesting a moderate level of perceived safety. The crime trend is stable, with a slight increase of 2.2% year-over-year. This introduction provides an overview of the crime statistics in Houghton-le-Spring, setting the context for a more detailed analysis.

Crime Type Analysis in Houghton-le-Spring

An analysis of crime types in Houghton-le-Spring reveals that Violence and sexual offences are the most significant concern, with 406 incidents, accounting for 30.4% of total crimes at a rate of 35.6 per 1,000 people. Anti-social behaviour is the second most frequent, with 222 crimes, representing 16.6% of the total at 19.5 per 1,000. Shoplifting ranks third, with 161 occurrences, comprising 12.1% of crimes at a rate of 14.1 per 1,000.

Property-related crime in Houghton-le-Spring, which includes burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft, registers a rate of 46.0 per 1,000 people. This category specifically includes 81 burglaries (7.1 per 1,000), 69 vehicle crimes (6.0 per 1,000), and 52 other theft offences (4.6 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, these statistics highlight the importance of securing properties and vehicles against opportunistic thieves. While violence and anti-social behaviour are prominent, the consistent presence of property crime underscores the need for vigilance and robust security measures to protect personal belongings and premises.

Crime Trends in Houghton-le-Spring

Houghton-le-Spring has experienced a stable crime trend, with a slight increase of 2.2% year-over-year. This indicates that the overall crime rate has remained relatively consistent, with a minor upward shift compared to the previous 12-month period. Reviewing the monthly crime rate per 1,000, there have been fluctuations. The rate was 10.4 in October 2024, rising to 11.4 in November, then dropping to 7.3 in December 2024. After a dip to 8.3 in February 2025, rates generally increased, peaking at 10.9 in June 2025, before settling at 10.2 in September 2025. Despite these monthly variations, the overall stability suggests that the area maintains a consistent safety environment, though residents should remain aware of the slight upward trend.

Crime Time Patterns in Houghton-le-Spring

Crime in Houghton-le-Spring displays distinct patterns throughout the 24-hour cycle. During the morning (6am-12pm), miscellaneous crime is most common at 41%, with theft at 26% and burglary at 17%. This often coincides with the start of the working day. The afternoon (12pm-6pm) sees theft and burglary both notable at 29%, suggesting properties may be more vulnerable when unoccupied. As evening progresses (6pm-12am), miscellaneous crime becomes dominant at 55%, with burglary and vehicle crime also present, possibly linked to social activities. Overnight (12am-6am), vehicle crime rises to 35%, alongside miscellaneous crime at 36% and burglary at 25%, indicating heightened risk for parked vehicles and properties during these quieter hours. Understanding these rhythms can help residents enhance their security measures.

Crime Comparison with Nearby Areas

To provide a comprehensive understanding of local safety, Houghton-le-Spring's crime statistics can be compared with several neighbouring areas. Fence Houses, East Rainton, Hetton-le-Hole, and Shiney Row and Penshaw are all nearby settlements that offer relevant comparisons. These areas, while geographically close, may exhibit different crime profiles due to varying demographics, urban planning, and local activities. By examining Houghton-le-Spring's data alongside these neighbours, residents can gain valuable regional context. This helps to illustrate how safety levels can differ even within a relatively small geographical radius, aiding in a more informed perspective on local crime rates.

Protecting Your Home in Houghton-le-Spring

With Houghton-le-Spring experiencing a property crime rate of 46.0 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the national average, it is prudent for residents to consider robust home security. Traditional security solutions often provide reactive measures, such as recording footage after a break-in. For truly effective protection, the emphasis should be on preventing crime before it occurs.

AI-powered home security operating systems, like scOS, are designed to offer proactive defence. These systems detect threats at your property's boundary, utilising multi-camera intelligence to monitor simultaneously and learn your routines. This allows for precise alerts and autonomous responses, such as activating lights or engaging speakers, which can deter potential intruders before they even attempt a break-in. In the crucial 60 seconds a burglar takes to decide, visible and intelligent deterrence can make them move on. While basic DIY systems can notify you, professional-grade, AI-driven security actively intervenes, providing a significant advantage in safeguarding your property against the prevalent property crime rates in Houghton-le-Spring.