Crime Statistics

Watford (Watford) Crime Rate

+3.1%year-over-year

Crime is stable and MODERATE in Watford (Watford)

Watford (Watford) has a crime rate of 99.5 per 1,000 and a safety score of 78/100. Explore crime statistics and trends to enhance safety in Watford (Watford).

Overall Crime Rate

99.5
Crimes per 1,000 people
stable trend

Property Crime Rate

35.8
Property crimes per 1,000 people
Includes burglary, theft, vandalism

How Watford (Watford) Compares to UK Average

Overall Crime:99.5vs 93.4 UK avg
+6.1 per 1,000 people
Property Crime:35.8vs 33.2 UK avg
+2.6 per 1,000 people

Watford (Watford)'s crime rate is higher than UK average

Based on population of 139,690 over 12 months

This area spans multiple local authorities

Watford, Three Rivers

Crime Statistics Summary for Watford (Watford)

Data last updated: September 2025. Source: Police.uk, ONS, Home Office.

Crime rates per 1,000 people in Watford (Watford)
Overall Crime Rate99.5 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate35.8 per 1,000 people
UK Average Crime Rate93.4 per 1,000 people
UK Average Property Crime Rate33.2 per 1,000 people
Safety Score78 out of 100
Population139,690
Trendstable
Comparisonhigher than UK average
Crime Breakdown by Type in Watford (Watford)
Crime TypeTotal CountPer 1,000 PeoplePercentage of Total
Violence and sexual offences4,54232.533%
Anti-social behaviour2,85520.421%
Shoplifting1,1398.28%
Other theft1,0787.78%
Criminal damage and arson9506.87%
Vehicle crime8686.26%
Public order8125.86%
Burglary4062.93%
Drugs3432.52%
Other crime2241.62%
Theft from the person2061.51%
Robbery1801.31%
Bicycle theft1741.21%
Possession of weapons1200.91%

Introduction to Crime in Watford (Watford)

The Built-Up Area of Watford (Watford), with a population of 139,690, records an overall crime rate of 99.5 per 1,000 residents per year. This places its crime rate slightly above the UK average of 93.4 per 1,000. However, the area boasts a safety score of 78 out of 100, which aligns perfectly with the UK average safety score, indicating a reassuring level of security for its residents. Crime trends in Watford (Watford) have remained stable over the past year, showing a modest year-over-year change of 3.1%. This overview provides essential context for understanding the detailed crime data, trends, and safety aspects within this specific urban area.

Watford (Watford) Safety Score

78
Safe
Safety Score out of 100

Watford (Watford) has a relatively good safety score compared to the UK average (78).

0-20
20-40
40-60
60-80
80-100

Most Common Crimes in Watford (Watford)

#1

Violence and sexual offences

Percentage:33%
Per 1,000:32.5
Total:4,542
#2

Anti-social behaviour

Percentage:21%
Per 1,000:20.4
Total:2,855
#3

Shoplifting

Percentage:8%
Per 1,000:8.2
Total:1,139
#4

Other theft

Percentage:8%
Per 1,000:7.7
Total:1,078
#5

Criminal damage and arson

Percentage:7%
Per 1,000:6.8
Total:950

Protect Against These Threats

scOS security systems are designed to detect and deter the most common crimes in your area, providing 24/7 autonomous protection.

Protect Against These Threats

Crime Breakdown in Watford (Watford)

Within the Built-Up Area of Watford (Watford), an examination of crime types reveals Violence and sexual offences as the most frequent category, accounting for 4,542 incidents, or 32.7% of all crimes, at a rate of 32.5 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common, with 2,855 incidents making up 20.5% of the total and a rate of 20.4 per 1,000. Shoplifting ranks as the third most prevalent crime type, with 1,139 reported cases, representing 8.2% of the total. The overall property crime rate for Watford (Watford) stands at 35.8 per 1,000 people per year. This comprehensive figure includes crimes such as burglary (406 incidents), theft from the person (206 incidents), criminal damage and arson (950 incidents), bicycle theft (174 incidents), vehicle crime (868 incidents), other theft (1,078 incidents), and robbery (180 incidents). For residents and property owners, these statistics underscore the importance of robust security measures to safeguard against these common property-related offences.

Crime Types Breakdown

Violence and sexual offences
4,542 incidents (32.5 per 1,000)
Anti-social behaviour
2,855 incidents (20.4 per 1,000)
Shoplifting
1,139 incidents (8.2 per 1,000)
Other theft
1,078 incidents (7.7 per 1,000)
Criminal damage and arson
950 incidents (6.8 per 1,000)
Vehicle crime
868 incidents (6.2 per 1,000)
Public order
812 incidents (5.8 per 1,000)
Burglary
406 incidents (2.9 per 1,000)
Drugs
343 incidents (2.5 per 1,000)
Other crime
224 incidents (1.6 per 1,000)
Theft from the person
206 incidents (1.5 per 1,000)
Robbery
180 incidents (1.3 per 1,000)
Bicycle theft
174 incidents (1.2 per 1,000)
Possession of weapons
120 incidents (0.9 per 1,000)

Crime Rate Trend

↓ 3.6% change(over 12 months)
Watford (Watford)
UK Average

Compare Watford (Watford) with similar populations

Watford (Watford) has a 6.5% higher crime rate than the UK average.

Crime Trends in Watford (Watford)

Watford (Watford) has experienced a stable crime trend over the last year, with a year-over-year change of 3.1%. A closer look at the monthly crime rates per 1,000 residents reveals a pattern of fluctuation. The rates started at 8.4 in October 2024, saw a dip to 7.2 in December, and then generally increased, peaking at 10.2 in July 2025. Following this summer peak, crime rates decreased to 8.1 by September 2025. This stable trend with seasonal variations suggests that while overall crime levels are not dramatically changing, residents might observe higher activity during warmer months, such as mid-summer. Understanding these patterns can help residents to be more aware and take appropriate precautions during periods of historically higher crime rates.

When Do Crimes Happen in Watford (Watford)?

Understanding peak crime times helps you stay vigilant and secure your property when it matters most.

Simulated Data

This heatmap shows estimated crime patterns based on Watford (Watford)'s crime statistics, crime type distribution, and general knowledge of when different crimes typically occur. This is not real historical data for specific times.

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Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
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Crime Likelihood:
Very Low
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

Pro Tip: Burglaries peak on weekday evenings (6pm-midnight) and during work hours (10am-3pm) when homes appear empty. scOS smart security stays alert around the clock — detecting threats instantly, whether you're home or away.

What Types of Crime Happen When in Watford (Watford)?

Different crimes occur at different times. This breakdown shows which crime types dominate each time period.

Based on Crime-Type Weighted Model

Morning

6am - 12pm

Theft49%
Other26%
Vehicle Crime18%
Burglary7%
Violence0%

Morning hours see elevated theft and vehicle crime as daily activities commence.

Afternoon

12pm - 6pm

Theft54%
Other27%
Burglary12%
Vehicle Crime6%
Violence0%

Afternoon sees peak theft during busy commercial hours, alongside some burglary.

Evening

6pm - 12am

Other46%
Theft24%
Vehicle Crime19%
Burglary11%
Violence0%

Evening experiences diverse crime, with significant 'other' crimes and vehicle crime rising.

Night

12am - 6am

Vehicle Crime46%
Other29%
Burglary14%
Theft11%
Violence0%

Night hours are dominated by vehicle crime and burglary when properties are less attended.

Simulated Data - Crime-Type Weighted Model

These crime patterns are estimated using the Crime Survey for England and Wales (ONS) time-of-day data, weighted by Watford (Watford)'s specific crime type distribution from Police.uk. This is not real historical data for specific times in Watford (Watford), but a model-generated estimate based on the area's crime composition and national timing patterns.

Time Patterns of Crime in Watford (Watford)

An analysis of crime occurrences throughout the day in Watford (Watford) reveals distinct time patterns. During the morning hours (6am-12pm), theft-related offences are most prominent, accounting for 49% of crimes, alongside a notable 18% for vehicle crime. The afternoon period (12pm-6pm) sees an even higher proportion of theft, at 54%, suggesting peak activity during commercial and shopping hours. As the day transitions into evening (6pm-12am), theft remains significant at 24%, but there's a rise in 'other' crime categories (46%) and vehicle crime (19%). The night hours (12am-6am) show a clear shift, with vehicle crime dominating at 46% and burglary reaching its highest proportion at 14%, indicating that properties and vehicles are more vulnerable when unattended or during darker hours. These patterns highlight specific periods when certain crime types are more likely, informing residents on when to be most vigilant.

Crime Rates Near Watford

Brent

8.0 miles

123.2
per 1,000
Very High Risk

Hillingdon

7.8 miles

120.7
per 1,000
Very High Risk

Watford

1.6 miles

108.0
per 1,000
High Risk

Hertsmere

6.3 miles

97.0
per 1,000
Moderate Risk

Barnet

8.5 miles

89.3
per 1,000
Moderate Risk

Three Rivers

2.0 miles

67.1
per 1,000
Low Risk

Crime Rate Risk Levels

Very Low
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

Explore Nearby Areas

Chandler's Cross

2.9 miles

0.0
per 1,000
Very Low Risk

Moor Park

1.8 miles

35.9
per 1,000
Very Low Risk

Bushey

2.0 miles

73.5
per 1,000
Low Risk

Rickmansworth

2.6 miles

73.9
per 1,000
Low Risk

Police Response Times in Watford (Watford)

How quickly do police respond to emergencies?

Grade 1 (Immediate)

Emergency 999 calls requiring immediate attendance — crimes in progress, threat to life, or serious injury.

Grade 2 (Priority)

Serious incidents needing prompt response but no immediate threat to life — recent crimes, vulnerable victims.

Grade 1 - Immediate

Emergency Response

14 minActual
Actual
14 min
Target
15 min
UK Average
15 min
1 min faster than target

Grade 2 - Priority

Priority Response

2h 20mActual
Actual
2h 20m
Target
1h
UK Average
1h
1h 20m slower than target

Active Officers

2,379

Each = 500 officers

Police Stations

Pending

Station count data is being collected

Why Response Time Matters

The average burglary takes just 8-10 minutes. Even when police respond quickly, burglars are often gone before anyone arrives.

scOS spots trouble the moment it starts — your lights come on, sirens sound, and you get an alert on your phone. Burglars don't stick around when they've lost the element of surprise.

2024 data
Source: FOI Request

How Does Watford (Watford) Compare?

York

116.9
crimes per 1,000 people
17.5% higher than Watford (Watford)

Colchester

102.9
crimes per 1,000 people
3.4% higher than Watford (Watford)

Huddersfield

121.9
crimes per 1,000 people
22.5% higher than Watford (Watford)

Poole

74.2
crimes per 1,000 people
25.4% safer than Watford (Watford)

Crime in Nearby Areas

To provide a localised context for Watford (Watford)'s crime statistics, it's helpful to consider its immediate neighbouring Built-Up Areas. Moor Park, Bushey, Rickmansworth, and Chandler's Cross are all in close proximity and share some similar characteristics, ranging from residential areas to smaller commercial hubs. While each area has its unique demographic and economic factors influencing crime, comparing Watford (Watford) with these adjacent communities offers residents a more granular understanding of regional safety. This local comparison can help individuals assess the relative safety of their immediate surroundings and the broader area they live and work within.

Why scOS Is Different From Every Other Security System

Traditional systems watch crime happen. scOS stops it from happening.

Sees Everything At Once

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Property line intervention

Knows Every Vehicle

DVLA verification catches fake plates instantly. Suspicious car? You know before they park.

Stop them early

Learns Your Patterns

Recognizes family, delivery times, normal routines. Only alerts you to real threats.

Zero false alarms

Traditional CCTV

  • •Records crime as it happens
  • •Motion alerts for every shadow, leaf, or car passing by
  • •You discover break-in hours later or are in the middle of it
  • •Hope police can use the footage

scOS Intelligence

  • •Stops threats before they reach your door
  • •Intelligent motion alerts — only notifies you of real threats
  • •Lights and speakers respond autonomously
  • •They turn away before you even know

What used to be impossible is now effortless.

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Protecting Your Property in Watford (Watford)

With Watford (Watford) experiencing a property crime rate of 35.8 per 1,000 residents, securing your home and vehicle is a critical consideration. Relying solely on reactive security measures, such as cameras that only record a burglary after it happens, provides footage but not prevention. Advanced, AI-powered systems like scOS offer a proactive alternative, designed to prevent crime at your property's boundary before an intrusion can occur. Unlike basic DIY setups that merely notify you after the fact, professional-grade security actively intervenes in real-time. Features such as multi-camera intelligence, DVLA vehicle verification, and pattern learning enable scOS to identify genuine threats and trigger an autonomous response, using lights and speakers to deter criminals. This immediate, visible deterrence can be crucial, as most burglars decide whether to proceed within 60 seconds. Implementing such professional protection signals a serious commitment to security, helping to ensure that potential threats move on and your property remains safe.

Ready to stop reading statistics and start protecting what matters?

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Understanding Our Data

How we source and verify crime information for Watford (Watford)

4,392+
Areas Covered
19M+
Crime Records
100%
Official Sources

Understanding the Calculations

The crime rate represents the number of recorded incidents per thousand residents in Watford (Watford). This approach ensures fair comparison regardless of area population size.

Our Information

All statistics come from official government sources: Police.uk provides recorded crime data while the Office for National Statistics supplies population figures. We aggregate data at multiple geographic levels for context.

Formula Used

Crimes per 1k residents = (Total incidents ÷ Population) × 1,000

Our statistics derive entirely from UK government databases:

  • Police.uk — Crime records from territorial police forces across England and Wales (43 total)
  • Office for National Statistics — Population statistics and the Crime Survey for England and Wales
  • Home Office — Nationwide crime data and official policy records
  • FOI Requests — Additional statistics obtained via formal requests to police services
Our system covers 4,392+ areas across England and Wales, including major urban centers, towns, and administrative regions. Data for Greater Manchester is currently unavailable. We refresh statistics immediately when official sources publish updates (generally every 8 weeks) and maintain archives for historical analysis.
Police.ukONSHome OfficeFOI

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0

Last updated: September 2025

New data is released by Police.uk approximately every two months

Spotted incorrect data or something that doesn't look right? Let us know and we'll investigate.

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