Godalming Crime Rate August 2023 | Monthly Statistics

For every 1,000 residents in Godalming, 5.4 crimes were reported in August 2023 — a rate 33.3% below the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. Translating this into everyday risk, the figure means one crime occurred for every 184 residents over the course of the month, a manageable frequency for most households. The most common crime type was violence and sexual offences (25.4% of total), followed by criminal damage and arson (14.3%) and anti-social behaviour (14.3%). This profile suggests a community where interpersonal conflicts and property damage play a larger role than theft or burglary. August's peak holiday season likely influenced these patterns: with more visitors and vacant homes, burglary risks may have increased. Meanwhile, the 47% reduction in violence and sexual offences compared to the UK average aligns with Godalming's character as a relatively stable, suburban area with strong community ties. Seasonal factors, such as increased tourism, may have amplified public order offences, but overall, the data indicates a safer environment than the national average. The balance of crime types — with property crimes (46%) slightly outpacing violent crimes (25.4%) — reflects a mix of local challenges, from community disputes to the occasional act of vandalism.

August saw notable shifts in crime patterns, with public order offences surging by 150% (from 2 to 5 incidents) — a jump likely tied to increased foot traffic during the peak holiday season. Other theft also rose sharply, with a 125% increase (4 to 9 cases), possibly reflecting heightened activity in retail or hospitality areas. Conversely, shoplifting fell by two-thirds (from 6 to 2), suggesting seasonal factors may have reduced opportunities for such crimes. Burglary, which had not occurred in July, rose by 100% to 3 incidents, linked to August's empty homes during holidays. Violence and sexual offences remained 47% below the UK average, while other crime — a category 131% above the national rate — warrants closer examination. These fluctuations illustrate how local dynamics, such as tourism and seasonal rhythms, shape crime trends.

Godalming's crime rate in August 2023 rose by 28.4% compared to July's 4.2 per 1,000 residents, reflecting a slight upward trend. This increase, however, remains well below the UK average of 8.1 per 1,000. On a daily basis, the area recorded roughly 2 crimes per day, a figure that underscores the relatively low frequency of incidents for local residents. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 184 residents, a monthly exposure rate that highlights the manageable scale of crime in this built-up area. While the rise from July may suggest shifting patterns, the overall rate continues to position Godalming as a safer environment compared to the UK average. Population context further illustrates that the 11,597 residents here face a crime risk significantly lower than the national benchmark, though the August increase warrants cautious attention to emerging trends.