Welwyn Garden City Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

In February 2026, Welwyn Garden City's crime rate stood at 6.6 per 1,000 residents, placing it 3.1% above the UK average of 6.4. This rate, while slightly elevated, remains within a range typical for a suburban built-up area with a mix of residential and commercial zones. The most common crime type was violence and sexual offences, accounting for 36.4% of all incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour (17.1%) and shoplifting (13.9%). These figures suggest a landscape where interpersonal conflicts and public disorder are significant concerns, potentially influenced by the area's proximity to larger urban centres and its role as a commuter hub. Seasonal factors may also play a role, as February—typically a low point for outdoor activity—saw a 13% drop in criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average, consistent with reduced opportunities for such crimes in colder weather. However, the sharp rise in possession of weapons (55% above UK average) and the 55% higher shoplifting rate highlight localised vulnerabilities. For residents, this translates to a 0.66% chance of encountering crime over the course of the month, with the most immediate risks concentrated in violent crime and anti-social behaviour. The area's character as a suburban town with a diverse population likely contributes to these patterns, though further analysis would be needed to confirm direct causal links.

February 2026 saw a 300% increase in possession of weapons, rising from 2 to 8 incidents—a sharp spike that may reflect heightened tensions or targeted enforcement. Public order offences also surged by 90%, reaching 19 cases, which could be linked to seasonal factors such as post-holiday activity or local events. Conversely, shoplifting fell by nearly 20%, with 49 incidents reported compared to 61 in January, due to increased police presence or seasonal retail patterns. Welwyn Garden City's shoplifting rate is 55% above the UK average, highlighting a localised challenge in retail crime prevention. Vehicle crime dropped by 26%, aligning with a UK-wide trend but influenced by reduced outdoor activity in winter. These shifts illustrate how specific local dynamics—such as the town's retail presence and seasonal rhythms—interact with broader national patterns.

Welwyn Garden City's crime rate in February 2026 remained stable at 6.6 per 1,000 residents, a 1.7% increase from the previous month's 6.5 rate. This suggests little change in overall risk levels for residents. On a daily basis, the area saw approximately 13 crimes reported each day, a figure that contextualises the pace of activity in a built-up urban environment. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 152 residents, a monthly exposure rate that translates to a 0.66% chance of being directly affected by crime. This rate is slightly higher than the UK average, but the consistency between February and January indicates that local factors—such as the area's mix of residential and commercial zones—may be more influential than seasonal fluctuations. The population context further illustrates that while crime is present, it remains relatively low in absolute terms, with most residents unlikely to encounter it directly.