Walsall Crime Rate

Walsall is a major urban centre with a safety score of 75/100, which is slightly below the UK average of 79/100. The overall crime rate in the area is 99.3 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the national average of 91.6. Recent data indicates a positive trend, with a significant -10.2% decrease in crime year-over-year, suggesting an improving security environment for its 295,678 residents. Property crime is a notable area of activity, with a rate of 41.4 per 1,000 residents, exceeding the UK average. While violence and sexual offences remain the most reported category, the high levels of shoplifting and vehicle crime highlight the need for robust security. The following analysis provides a detailed look at the local crime breakdown, monthly trends, and how Walsall compares to surrounding areas.

About Walsall

Walsall is a significant industrial and commercial hub within the West Midlands, characterised by a dense urban core surrounded by diverse residential suburbs. Historically known for its leather and metalworking industries, the area now supports a mix of retail, manufacturing, and transport-related activities. Its location at the intersection of major transport networks, including the M6 motorway, contributes to its status as a high-activity region.

The crime statistics in Walsall are influenced by several factors typical of high-density urban areas. The presence of major retail centres and a transient population associated with its role as a transport hub can contribute to higher levels of opportunistic theft and shoplifting. Additionally, the district's socio-economic landscape, with areas of high population density, can impact rates of anti-social behaviour and public order offences. For residents and businesses, understanding this context is essential for implementing effective security measures in an area that remains a vital part of the West Midlands' economic and social fabric.

Crime Breakdown in Walsall

Walsall's crime profile is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which account for 38.9% of all recorded incidents (11,415 crimes). Shoplifting is the second most significant type at 11.6%, followed by criminal damage and arson at 9.0%. Together, these three categories form the majority of the local safety landscape.

Property-related crime in Walsall occurs at a rate of 41.4 per 1,000 people—higher than the UK average of 32.2. This includes 3,408 incidents of shoplifting (11.6%), 2,485 vehicle crimes (8.5%), and 1,736 other thefts (5.9%). Burglary accounts for 4.3% of total crime, with 1,260 recorded incidents. For residents, this means a significant risk to both homes and vehicles. The combined impact of burglary, vehicle crime, and theft suggests that opportunistic criminals are particularly active across the local authority area, especially in its urban and commercial zones. Homeowners and car owners should prioritise robust security measures to protect their property in this high-activity environment.

Crime Trends in Walsall

The crime trend in Walsall is currently positive, with a significant -10.2% decrease in overall offences year-over-year. This downward trajectory indicates that the borough has successfully improved its security environment. Analysis of the monthly data for 2025 shows that the crime rate was relatively consistent throughout the year, fluctuating between 7.3 and 8.8 per 1,000 people.

The highest rate was recorded in October (8.8) and May (8.7). These minor fluctuations are small variations in an otherwise improving crime year. Despite these fluctuations, the borough has avoided any major escalation in criminal activity. For residents, this decreasing trend provides reassurance that Walsall remains a safe and secure place to live, with a predictable and well-managed safety profile. The year ended on a positive note, with the crime rate decreasing to 7.5 in December.

Walsall is situated in the heart of the West Midlands, bordered by several major urban areas. When compared to its closest neighbours, it presents a typical urban safety profile. It has more recorded crime than the more rural South Staffordshire and Cannock Chase. It is most comparable to Sandwell, Wolverhampton, Birmingham, and Dudley, which also serve as major urban hubs in the region. While some adjacent areas report negligible crime rates in this specific dataset, the broader regional context confirms Walsall as a safe and stable choice for residents who want the amenities of a major city while benefiting from a well-managed and improving security environment.

Protecting Your Property in Walsall

The property crime rate in Walsall stands at 41.4 per 1,000 people, which is higher than the UK average of 32.2. With 1,260 burglaries and nearly 2,500 vehicle crimes recorded, property security is a top priority for homeowners. Most traditional security systems are reactive; they record footage of an event for later review or trigger an alarm only once a door or window has been breached.

For those seeking a higher level of protection, the scOS AI-powered operating system offers a proactive alternative. Rather than simply documenting a crime, scOS is designed to prevent it. By monitoring multiple camera feeds simultaneously with advanced AI, it detects potential threats at the property boundary. In Walsall's residential areas, scOS can distinguish between a delivery driver and a genuine intruder, activating autonomous responses such as lighting and audio warnings to deter criminals before they act. This proactive approach is particularly effective against opportunistic theft and burglary, ensuring that your property is perceived as a high-risk target by potential offenders.

How To Keep Safe in Walsall

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in Walsall, accounting for 38.9% of the total. While the area is generally safe, taking proactive steps for personal safety is always recommended for residents across the local authority.

When out in public, especially during evening hours in the busy city centre or near transport hubs, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in unlit areas and try to plan your journeys in advance. If you are using taxi services, ensure they are licensed and share your journey details with a trusted contact.

For those living in the various residential estates across the borough, ensuring your home is well-lit at night can significantly improve personal and property safety. Consider installing motion-sensor lighting around entry points and driveways. Additionally, participating in local Neighbourhood Watch schemes can provide valuable community-based intelligence and support. Always report suspicious activity to the local police promptly. By maintaining a high level of awareness and ensuring your home and vehicle are 'hard targets' for opportunistic crime, you can significantly reduce your personal risk in Walsall.