Vale of Glamorgan Crime Rate

The Vale of Glamorgan maintains a strong safety profile, recording an overall crime rate of 72.3 per 1,000 people. This figure is significantly lower than the UK national average of 91.6, earning the district a safety score of 83/100. Recent data from January to December 2025 shows that crime is on a decreasing trend, with a 6.5% drop year-over-year. Property crime in the Vale is also relatively low at 23.6 per 1,000, compared to the national average of 32.2. For its 135,743 residents, these statistics highlight the area as one of the more secure regions in Wales, offering a balanced environment where safety has improved steadily over the last 12 months.

The Vale of Glamorgan is a diverse local authority area combining prosperous coastal towns, rural villages, and industrial zones. Its crime statistics are influenced by its role as a major residential and tourism hub for South Wales. The area features high-density urban centres like Barry and Penarth, which experience higher footfall and nightlife activity, alongside the more transient populations associated with Cardiff Airport and various transport links to the capital. Economic factors vary across the district, with some areas of significant affluence contrasting with pockets of industrial heritage. The mix of residential suburbs and popular coastal attractions means that crime patterns often fluctuate seasonally, particularly in areas frequented by visitors. This demographic and geographical variety contributes to a safety profile that is generally robust, benefiting from both close-knit rural communities and proactive policing in more urbanised sectors.

Crime in the Vale of Glamorgan is primarily driven by violence and sexual offences, which account for 37.5% of all reported incidents (3,685 crimes). Anti-social behaviour is the second most frequent at 12.5%, followed by public order offences at 10.8%. When looking at property-related crime—which includes burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and shoplifting—the area has a combined rate of 23.6 per 1,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the UK average of 32.2. Within the property crime category, shoplifting is the most prominent, representing 9.8% of total offences, while criminal damage and arson account for 8.7%. For residents and homeowners, this indicates that while violent crime is the most recorded category, opportunistic property crimes like shoplifting and vehicle theft (4.9%) remain a persistent concern. The relatively low burglary rate (2.6%) is a positive indicator for residential security, but the overall property crime volume suggests a need for consistent vigilance.

The crime trend in the Vale of Glamorgan is currently decreasing, showing a positive 6.5% drop in total offences over the last year. Detailed monthly data for 2025 reveals a relatively stable pattern throughout the year; the crime rate peaked in May at 6.6 per 1,000 people, with other smaller peaks in March (6.3) and July (6.4). The year ended on a low note, with December recording the lowest rate of 5.3 per 1,000. This consistent decrease toward the end of the year is a very encouraging indicator for the area's safety. The overall trajectory suggests that the Vale of Glamorgan is becoming increasingly secure, with local law enforcement and community safety initiatives effectively reducing criminal activity and providing a safer environment for its residents across both urban and rural communities.

In the context of the South Wales region, the Vale of Glamorgan's crime rate of 72.3 per 1,000 stands in contrast to several neighbouring local authorities. Cardiff, Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly, Neath Port Talbot, and Merthyr Tydfil all reported rates of 0.0 per 1,000 in this specific dataset, suggesting exceptionally low reported activity or differing reporting metrics in those jurisdictions. Despite appearing higher in this immediate local comparison, the Vale of Glamorgan remains significantly safer than the UK national average. For those looking to settle in South Wales, the district offers a high standard of living with a safety record that is robust by national standards, even if some immediate neighbours show lower statistical figures.

With a property crime rate of 23.6 per 1,000, residents of the Vale of Glamorgan enjoy a level of security that is better than many parts of the UK. However, the prevalence of shoplifting and criminal damage suggests that opportunistic incidents remain a factor. Traditional security measures, such as basic CCTV or doorbell cameras, are often reactive—they provide evidence only after a crime has been committed. For homeowners in the Vale who want a more robust solution, scOS offers a proactive alternative. This AI-powered operating system uses multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's boundaries in real-time. Rather than just recording a break-in, scOS can distinguish between a routine delivery and a suspicious intruder. When a threat is detected, the system can autonomously trigger deterrents like lighting and speakers, stopping a burglar before they even reach your door. In an area where opportunistic theft and vehicle crime are persistent, having an AI system that provides active deterrence is the most effective way to ensure your home remains a hard target.

How To Keep Safe in Vale of Glamorgan

Violence and sexual offences represent the most common crime type in the district. To stay safe in public, particularly in busier town centres like Barry or Penarth during evening hours, always plan your route in advance and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Avoid walking alone in isolated coastal areas or unlit footpaths after dark.

Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue, often reported in the evenings. Staying connected with local community groups or Neighbourhood Watch schemes can help in addressing these concerns effectively. Property crime is another area for vigilance; with shoplifting being a common property-related issue, ensure that personal items are not left unattended in public spaces. Vehicle crime is a persistent risk; always ensure your vehicle is locked, parked in a well-lit driveway or garage, and that no valuables are left inside. During the day, double-check that all ground-floor windows and doors are secure, as opportunistic thieves often look for easy entry points. Finally, reporting any suspicious activity to South Wales Police can help ensure resources are directed where they are needed most across the district.