Torbay Crime Rate

Torbay currently has a safety score of 74/100, which is below the UK national average of 79. The overall crime rate for the district is 109.0 per 1,000 residents, a figure that is notably higher than the UK average of 91.7. However, it is important to note that the crime trend in Torbay is stable, with a year-over-year decrease of 4.8%. As a major tourist destination, Torbay's statistics are often influenced by the high volume of seasonal visitors, which can inflate the number of incidents per resident. This report explores the detailed breakdown of crime types, seasonal trends, and provides essential safety advice for those living in or visiting the English Riviera.

About Torbay

Torbay, often referred to as the English Riviera, is a unique local authority district comprising the seaside towns of Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham. Its crime statistics are heavily influenced by its status as a premier UK tourist destination. The area experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in population, with millions of visitors arriving during the summer months. This influx increases population density and supports a vibrant nightlife and hospitality sector, which can contribute to higher rates of anti-social behaviour and public order offences.

Economically, Torbay has a mix of tourism-led businesses, fishing industries in Brixham, and a large service sector. The high concentration of retail and entertainment venues in the town centres naturally leads to more recorded incidents compared to purely residential districts. Additionally, the transient nature of a seasonal workforce and tourist population can influence crime rates. While the overall crime rate is 109.0 per 1,000, it is important to view this in the context of a region that serves a much larger effective population than its resident count suggests.

Crime Breakdown in Torbay

The most significant crime type in Torbay is violence and sexual offences, which accounts for 41.5% of all reported crime, with a rate of 45.2 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue at 16.9%, followed by criminal damage and arson at 8.4%. These figures reflect the challenges faced by popular coastal resort areas, particularly regarding public order and evening economy activity.

Property crime in Torbay occurs at a rate of 31.8 per 1,000 people, which is slightly lower than the UK average of 32.3. This category includes burglary, vehicle crime, shoplifting, and various forms of theft. Burglary and vehicle crime each account for 2.5% of the total crime, which is relatively low for an area with this level of overall activity. However, shoplifting remains a concern for local businesses, making up 7.5% of recorded incidents. For residents, the data suggests that while property-related crime is slightly below the national average, the high levels of anti-social behaviour and violence in central areas mean that personal safety and public awareness are the primary concerns. Protecting homes and businesses from criminal damage remains a priority for the local community.

Crime in Torbay follows a very clear seasonal pattern, typical of a major seaside resort. The overall trend is stable, with a 4.8% decrease compared to the previous year. Looking at the monthly data for 2025, the crime rate began the year at 8.9 in January and remained relatively consistent until the spring. A significant increase occurred in May, jumping to 10.4, and peaked in July at 10.7 per 1,000 residents.

This summer surge aligns with the peak tourist season when the population of the area increases dramatically. After the summer high, the rate began to decline, reaching 8.6 by November. This data suggests that while the permanent resident population experiences a relatively consistent level of safety, the summer months bring a higher volume of incidents. For locals, this means that while the overall trajectory is slightly downward, the need for vigilance increases significantly during the warmer months and school holidays.

Torbay's crime rate of 109.0 per 1,000 residents is the highest in the immediate region, which is expected given its status as the primary urban and tourist hub. Nearby areas such as Teignbridge, South Hams, Exeter, East Devon, West Devon, and Plymouth all show significantly lower crime intensities in current comparative data. While Exeter and Plymouth are also urban centres, the specific seasonal pressures and high density of the Torbay coastal strip result in a more concentrated volume of recorded incidents. For those looking for quieter, lower-crime environments, the surrounding Devon districts offer a more rural and less active alternative to the bustling atmosphere of the Torbay towns.

With a property crime rate of 31.8 per 1,000 residents, Torbay homeowners face risks that are largely in line with the national average. However, the high levels of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage in the area mean that property protection should go beyond simple surveillance. Traditional security systems, such as basic CCTV or doorbell cameras, are reactive; they provide you with a video of a crime after it has already occurred, which often does little to prevent the damage.

For true security in Torbay, a proactive approach is required. scOS is an AI-powered operating system that transforms standard security into an active defence. By identifying threats at the property boundary, scOS can intervene before a break-in or act of vandalism takes place. Its multi-camera intelligence and autonomous responses—such as triggering deterrent lights or audio warnings—remove the element of surprise that criminals rely on. In a region where seasonal fluctuations can lead to varying levels of street activity, having a system that recognises your family and routines while remaining alert to real threats provides superior peace of mind.

How To Keep Safe in Torbay

The most common crime in Torbay is violence and sexual offences, which are often concentrated in the busy town centres and nightlife areas, particularly during the summer. To stay safe, always be aware of your surroundings when in crowded places. If you are enjoying the local nightlife, stay with your group and plan your journey home using reputable local taxi firms.

Anti-social behaviour is also a significant factor in the area. Avoid engaging in confrontations and report any disruptive activity to the local authorities. During the peak tourist season, be extra vigilant with your personal belongings in high-footfall areas like the seafronts and shopping districts to prevent opportunistic theft.

For residents, ensuring your home is visible and well-lit can deter criminal damage. Consider installing motion-activated lighting around the perimeter of your property. Staying connected with local community safety newsletters can also help you stay informed about specific trends or issues in your particular part of the Bay.