Tonbridge and Malling Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime Statistics in Tonbridge and Malling

Tonbridge and Malling presents a reassuring picture regarding crime, with an overall crime rate of 66.8 per 1,000 people per year. This figure is notably lower than the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000, indicating a comparatively safer environment. The area boasts an impressive safety score of 85 out of 100, which stands well above the national average of 78. In terms of recent trends, the area has experienced a stable period, with a slight decrease of 3.4% in its year-over-year crime rate. This overview sets the context for a more detailed examination of specific crime types and patterns within Tonbridge and Malling.

About Tonbridge and Malling

Tonbridge and Malling is a diverse local authority district in Kent, characterised by a blend of historic market towns, such as Tonbridge and West Malling, and extensive rural landscapes. Its geographical position within the commuter belt, with good transport links to London, influences its demographic and economic profile. The area is predominantly residential, with a significant proportion of residents commuting for work, which can leave properties unoccupied during daytime hours. Local activities largely revolve around community events, historical sites, and the natural environment, contributing to a generally settled and family-oriented atmosphere. The population is relatively affluent and stable, with a strong sense of community in many of its smaller villages and towns.

These characteristics contribute to Tonbridge and Malling's comparatively lower crime rate and higher safety score. The presence of established communities and a generally stable economic environment tend to correlate with reduced levels of certain crime types. While the area benefits from its quieter nature, the existence of key transport routes and commercial centres means that it is not entirely immune to opportunistic crime, particularly property-related offences. Understanding this interplay between the area's characteristics and its crime statistics is key to appreciating the overall safety and specific challenges within Tonbridge and Malling.

Crime Type Analysis

An analysis of crime types in Tonbridge and Malling reveals that 'Violence and sexual offences' constitute the most prevalent category, accounting for 35.2% of all reported crimes, at a rate of 23.5 per 1,000 residents. Following this are 'Anti-social behaviour' (17.6%, 11.8 per 1,000) and 'Criminal damage and arson' (10.9%, 7.3 per 1,000). While these categories are significant, the overall property-related crime rate in Tonbridge and Malling stands at 23.8 per 1,000 people, which is considerably lower than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. This encompasses crimes such as burglary (1.7 per 1,000), vehicle crime (3.7 per 1,000), other theft (4.5 per 1,000), shoplifting (5.8 per 1,000), bicycle theft (0.3 per 1,000), robbery (0.3 per 1,000), and theft from the person (0.2 per 1,000). For residents and homeowners, this data suggests that while personal safety remains a key concern, the risk to property is comparatively lower than the national picture, offering a degree of reassurance regarding their homes and possessions.

Crime Trends in Tonbridge and Malling

Over the past year, Tonbridge and Malling has experienced a stable crime trend, with a modest year-over-year decrease of 3.4%. This suggests a consistent effort in maintaining safety within the community. Looking at the monthly crime rates per 1,000 people, the figures have generally remained within a narrow range. From October 2024 (5.6) through to September 2025 (5.1), there have been minor fluctuations. Notably, February 2025 recorded a lower rate of 4.7, while March 2025 saw a slight increase to 6.4. Similarly, July 2025 also registered a slightly higher rate at 6.1. These patterns indicate that while crime levels are generally well-managed, there are occasional seasonal or specific peaks. For residents, this stable trend means that the area's safety profile has not significantly deteriorated, providing a degree of predictability in the local crime landscape.

Comparison with Nearby Areas

To provide regional context, it is helpful to compare Tonbridge and Malling's crime statistics with those of its neighbours. With an overall crime rate of 66.8 per 1,000 people, Tonbridge and Malling stands as a relatively safe area. When looking at Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells, these areas often present similar, generally lower crime profiles, reflecting their affluent and suburban characteristics. In contrast, areas like Gravesham, Dartford, and parts of Bromley, which may have more urbanised centres or different socio-economic factors, often report higher crime rates. Maidstone, being a larger town, typically falls somewhere in between, with a mix of urban and semi-rural challenges. This comparison highlights that Tonbridge and Malling maintains a favourable position within the wider region, generally offering a more secure environment than many of its surrounding districts.

Protecting Your Home and Property

Given Tonbridge and Malling's property crime rate of 23.8 per 1,000 people, which is below the national average, it remains crucial for residents to consider robust home security measures. The focus should always be on proactive prevention rather than reactive recording. Traditional security cameras, such as Ring or Nest, primarily provide footage after an incident has occurred, documenting a burglary rather than preventing it. Similarly, many DIY systems only notify you after a break-in, leaving you to react to an event that has already happened.

For those seeking genuine peace of mind and advanced protection, an AI-powered home security operating system like scOS offers a significant advantage. scOS is designed to prevent crime before it happens by detecting threats at your property boundary, not after an intruder has gained entry. Its multi-camera intelligence ensures all cameras are watched simultaneously, never missing a moment, and features like DVLA vehicle verification can instantly catch fake plates. By learning your family's routines and distinguishing between genuine threats and everyday occurrences, scOS minimises false alarms. This proactive approach, coupled with autonomous responses like activating lights and engaging speakers, creates an element of surprise that often deters potential burglars within their crucial 60-second decision-making window. Choosing professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, making your property a less appealing target and enhancing safety in the context of local crime statistics.