Oxted Crime Rate

Oxted's crime profile reveals a sharp 300% YoY increase in robbery, despite an overall stable crime rate (-3.9% YoY) and a safety score of 87/100. This 1% excess in shoplifting (7.6 vs 7.5 per 1,000 UK average) and the area's 33.4% lower crime rate than the UK average highlight a complex mix of localised spikes and strong overall safety.

Oxted is a built-up area in Tandridge, characterised by a mix of residential and commercial properties. Its proximity to London and Surrey's transport networks likely influences crime patterns, with retail centres contributing to shoplifting rates. The area's moderate population density and established community structures may help mitigate more severe crimes, though localised spikes in specific categories require attention.

The most surprising finding in Oxted's crime data is that shoplifting is 1% above the UK average (7.6 vs 7.5 per 1,000), a slight but notable excess. This could be attributed to the presence of retail outlets and high foot traffic in local centres, which create opportunities for opportunistic theft. Meanwhile, violence and sexual offences are 46% below the UK average (17.4 vs 32.1 per 1,000), likely due to the area's community-oriented environment and lower population density compared to urban centres. Anti-social behaviour, though 28% below the UK average (10.6 vs 14.7), has risen by 10% YoY, possibly linked to seasonal factors or local events. The sharp 300% YoY increase in robbery (0.3 vs 1.2 per 1,000 UK average) remains unexplained by the data but may reflect isolated incidents or targeted activity. Property crime rates are 22.8% below the UK average, with burglary and vehicle crime both showing declines, suggesting effective local deterrents or lower exposure to high-risk environments.

Oxted's crime rate has remained stable (-3.9% YoY) over the past 12 months, but robbery has surged by 300% YoY, despite remaining 74% below the UK average. The monthly trend shows a peak in May 2025 (6.9 per 1,000) and trough in November 2025 (3.5 per 1,000), likely influenced by seasonal factors such as tourism and university term patterns. While most crime types have declined or remained stable, the sharp rise in robbery remains unexplained by the data, highlighting the need for further local analysis.

How To Keep Safe in Oxted

For residents concerned about shoplifting, consider securing high-value items in retail stores with scOS's perimeter detection. During evenings, when vehicle crime peaks (48% of night-time crimes), avoid leaving cars unattended in poorly lit areas. For robbery prevention, remain vigilant in public spaces, though Oxted's 74% lower rate than the UK average suggests such incidents are rare. Community engagement through Neighbourhood Watch can further bolster safety in this already very safe area.

Crime in Oxted follows distinct temporal patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (52% of afternoon crimes) and evening (21%), aligning with retail activity and after-work hours. Vehicle crime spikes at night (48% of night-time crimes), likely due to unattended parking in residential areas. Burglary is most common in the afternoon (16%) and evening (14%), possibly tied to absenteeism during work hours. Other crimes, such as public order issues, are more prevalent in the evening and night, reflecting social activity patterns. These trends suggest that targeted measures during high-risk periods could help reduce exposure to property crime and theft.

Compared to nearby areas, Oxted has an 113% higher crime rate than Limpsfield (28.5 per 1,000) and a 54% higher rate than South Godstone (39.4 per 1,000). Woldingham (24.3 per 1,000) remains the region's safest area, with Oxted's rate 149% higher. These differences may reflect varying population densities and local economic factors.

For Oxted residents, shoplifting (7.6 per 1,000, 1% above UK average) is a key concern, requiring proactive security measures, scOS's AI-powered perimeter detection can distinguish between regular visitors and potential threats, reducing false alarms. Its automated lighting and speaker activation disrupt intruders before entry, aligning with Oxted's need to deter opportunistic theft. The system's integration with existing cameras ensures coverage without gaps, addressing the 12.5% of crimes linked to retail activity.