Torbay Crime Rate

Torbay's crime statistics show a district with a higher-than-average crime rate of 108.6 per 1,000 residents, compared to the UK average of 91.6. This results in a safety score of 74/100, which is below the national average of 79. However, the recent trend direction is stable, with a 4.7% decrease in crime over the past year, indicating a positive shift in the area's safety profile. Property crime in Torbay is relatively in line with national norms, with a rate of 31.4 per 1,000. This report provides a detailed breakdown of the types of crime most prevalent in Torbay and offers practical advice for residents and visitors to maintain their safety and protect their property.

Torbay, often referred to as the English Riviera, is a major seaside destination in Devon comprising the towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. The area's crime statistics are significantly influenced by its high volume of tourism, which peaks during the summer months. The vibrant nightlife and extensive hospitality sector contribute to higher rates of violence and anti-social behaviour, particularly in the town centres. Economic factors, including a reliance on seasonal employment and pockets of deprivation, also play a role in local crime dynamics. Torbay's geography as a coastal area with busy harbours and tourist attractions creates unique challenges for public order. Despite these factors, the area maintains a safety score that, while lower than the UK average, reflects the complexities of a major resort region.

In Torbay, violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type, representing 42.4% of all reported incidents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most frequent at 16.5%, followed by criminal damage and arson at 8.4%. Property-related crime—including burglary, vehicle crime, and various thefts—occurs at a rate of 31.4 per 1,000 residents. This is just below the UK average property crime rate of 32.2. Shoplifting also makes up a significant portion of local crime at 7.5%. For residents and homeowners, this indicates that while personal safety and public conduct are major concerns, property crime rates are relatively in line with national norms. Burglary specifically accounts for 2.5% of total crime, suggesting that residential property risk is a consistent but not dominant factor.

The crime trend in Torbay is currently stable, with a 4.7% reduction in total offences over the past 12 months. Analysis of the monthly data for 2025 shows that the crime rate fluctuated, starting at 8.9 per 1,000 in January and reaching a peak of 10.7 in July. This peak coincides with the height of the summer tourism season. Following this peak, the rates generally declined, reaching 7.8 in December. This downward trajectory overall suggests that the district is becoming safer. For residents, this means that local safety initiatives and policing are having a positive impact, providing a more secure environment for the community.

In the local regional context, Torbay's crime rate of 108.6 per 1,000 is higher than that of nearby Teignbridge, South Hams, Exeter, East Devon, West Devon, and Plymouth. This comparison shows that Torbay acts as a major urban and tourist hub with more concentrated criminal activity than its neighbours. For those living in or visiting the area, this highlights the importance of being safety-conscious while enjoying the benefits of a major resort region.

With a property crime rate of 31.4 per 1,000, Torbay residents should consider security that offers proactive protection. Traditional CCTV systems are reactive; they provide footage of a crime after it has occurred. In a major resort area like Torbay, proactive protection is far more effective. The scOS AI-powered operating system is designed to stop crimes before they happen. By detecting threats at the property boundary and using autonomous responses—such as activating lights or audio alerts—scOS can deter potential intruders. This shift from reactive recording to proactive prevention is essential for maintaining a safe and secure home in Torbay, ensuring your property remains a deterrent rather than a target, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How To Keep Safe in Torbay

The most common crime in Torbay is violence and sexual offences, often occurring in busy urban areas or during late-night hours. To stay safe, consider these localized suggestions:

• Be Mindful in Town Centres: When shopping or socialising in Torquay, Paignton, or Brixham town centres, especially in the evenings, stay in well-lit, busy areas and travel with friends where possible.
• Secure Your Property: Although property crime is in line with national averages, ensure all windows and doors are locked, particularly in holiday homes or lets which can be targeted.
• Report Anti-Social Behaviour: Reporting ASB helps local authorities identify and manage hotspots, preventing more serious crimes from occurring in your neighbourhood.
• Stay Alert During Peak Season: During the busy summer months, be extra vigilant in crowded tourist areas and keep your personal belongings secure.
• Vehicle Vigilance: Don't leave valuables on display in your car. In a major resort area, opportunistic theft can occur if items like bags or electronics are visible.