Wakefield Crime Rate

The Wakefield district currently has an overall crime rate of 122.3 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the UK average of 91.6. The area holds a safety score of 69/100, compared to the national average of 79. However, the most recent data shows a encouraging trend, with crime rates decreasing by 5.3% year-over-year. This suggests that while Wakefield experiences higher crime volumes than some other regions, the overall situation is improving. The following sections provide a comprehensive analysis of the crime types, trends, and safety context for those living and working across the Wakefield local authority area.

Wakefield is a diverse local authority district in West Yorkshire, characterised by a mix of urban centres, suburban residential areas, and former industrial villages. As a major administrative and commercial hub, the area hosts significant employment sectors, including large-scale logistics and distribution centres due to its proximity to the M1 and M62 motorways. These transport links, while vital for the economy, can also influence crime statistics by providing easy access for transient populations.

The district's demographics are varied, with a population of over 367,000. Wakefield city centre serves as a focal point for nightlife and retail, which typically contributes to higher concentrations of public order and anti-social behaviour reports. Economic factors, including areas of regeneration alongside more affluent commuter belts, create a complex socio-economic landscape. The presence of major hospitals, prisons, and local government offices further defines the district's character. Understanding Wakefield's crime rate requires acknowledging this blend of high-density urban activity and the sprawling nature of its surrounding settlements.

In Wakefield, the crime profile is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which constitute 44.0% of all recorded incidents with 19,766 reports. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue at 10.1%, followed by public order offences at 8.3%. For homeowners and residents, property crime is a significant factor, with a combined rate of 37.8 per 1,000 people, which is above the UK average of 32.2.

The property crime category in Wakefield includes several key concerns. Shoplifting accounts for 7.2% of total crime, while criminal damage and arson make up 6.7%. Vehicle crime is also a notable factor for residents, with 2,344 recorded incidents (5.2% of the total). Burglary, while representing 3.7% of all crime, remains a priority for local security, with 1,658 cases reported annually. The relatively high property crime rate suggests that residents should be proactive in securing their homes and vehicles, as the district experiences a higher volume of these offences than many other parts of the country.

Crime in the Wakefield district is on a downward trajectory, with a year-over-year decrease of 5.3%. This positive trend is reflected in the monthly data for 2025, which shows a general decline in the crime rate as the year progressed. The year began with a rate of 9.5 per 1,000 in January, peaking slightly in July at 11.3.

Following the summer peak, the crime rate steadily fell, reaching 9.2 in November and ending the year at its lowest point of 8.8 in December. This consistent reduction towards the end of the year is an encouraging sign for residents and local authorities alike. The data suggests that while there are seasonal peaks, particularly during the summer months, the overall effort to reduce crime in the district is yielding results. For homeowners, this decreasing trend provides a more stable and improving safety outlook for the region.

Within the wider Yorkshire region, Wakefield's statistics can be compared to several nearby metropolitan and industrial areas. Barnsley, Leeds, Kirklees, Doncaster, Sheffield, and Rotherham all provide important local context. While the specific data for these areas in this period shows lower recorded rates, they all share the common challenges of large northern urban centres. Wakefield acts as a central hub for many of these locations, and its crime figures reflect its role as a major destination for work and leisure. For residents, understanding Wakefield's position within this regional cluster helps in assessing the local safety environment relative to the broader West and South Yorkshire landscape.

With a property crime rate of 37.8 per 1,000 people, residents in the Wakefield district face a higher risk than the UK average. Property crime, including burglary and vehicle theft, accounts for a significant portion of local police activity. Traditional security systems, while common, often only provide evidence after a crime has been committed. For those seeking to truly secure their homes, a shift from reactive to proactive protection is necessary.

The scOS AI-powered operating system is designed to prevent crime by identifying threats at the property boundary. In an area like Wakefield, where vehicle crime and burglary are persistent issues, scOS's ability to monitor all cameras simultaneously and verify vehicles using DVLA data provides a superior level of security. Instead of just recording a burglary, scOS uses autonomous responses to deter intruders before they can cause harm. By destroying the element of surprise with immediate light and audio activation, scOS makes your property a much less attractive target. This proactive approach is essential for homeowners in areas with elevated property crime statistics.

How To Keep Safe in Wakefield

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in Wakefield, making up 44.0% of the total. To enhance your personal safety, it is recommended to remain vigilant when in busy town centres or near nightlife hubs. Plan your journeys in advance and stick to well-lit, populated routes. If you are out late, using a reputable taxi service or a pre-booked ride-share is always safer than walking alone in quieter areas.

Anti-social behaviour is also a notable concern, so staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding confrontations is key. For broader regional safety, residents should ensure their homes are well-secured; even simple measures like installing motion-activated lighting can deter unwanted activity around your property. Being part of a local community alert group or neighbourhood watch can also help you stay informed about recent incidents in your specific part of the district. Finally, keep high-value items out of sight in vehicles and ensure all windows and doors are locked, even when you are at home, to mitigate the risk of opportunistic property crime.