Burford Crime Rate

Burford, a historic market town in West Oxfordshire, presents a unique crime profile. Despite being 30.4% below the UK average with a safety score of 84/100, burglary in Burford is 146% above the national rate. This contrast highlights the need for targeted security measures in an otherwise safe area. The town's crime rate has decreased by 14.4% YoY, but the sharp rise in burglary (+166.7%) underscores local vulnerabilities.

Burford is a historic market town in West Oxfordshire, characterised by its compact built-up area and proximity to rural landscapes. Its small population and traditional retail core may contribute to lower overall crime rates, but the presence of commuter housing and historic properties could create vulnerabilities for burglary. The town's mix of residential and commercial zones likely influences patterns in property crime and public order issues.

The most striking finding is that burglary in Burford is 146% above the UK average, at 8.1 per 1,000 compared to the national rate of 3.3. This could reflect the town's historic architecture, which may have older security features, or the presence of second homes that are unoccupied for extended periods. Violence and sexual offences, while still below the UK average, may be linked to the local nightlife and commercial activity in the town centre. Criminal damage and arson, 15% above the UK average, may be associated with the preservation of historic buildings, which could attract vandals. Vehicle crime, though falling (-38% YoY), remains 10% above the UK average, due to the mix of residential and commercial parking areas.

Crime in Burford has decreased by 14.4% year-on-year, but this masks a sharp rise in burglary (+166.7% YoY). The overall decline may reflect effective policing or community initiatives, but the burglary surge is concerning. Monthly trends show a peak in June 2025 (8.1 per 1,000), possibly linked to seasonal factors or local events. Vehicle crime has fallen by 38% YoY but remains 10% above the UK average, suggesting persistent vulnerabilities.

How To Keep Safe in Burford

For residents concerned about burglary, securing properties with motion-activated lighting and reinforced doors is essential. Given the 146% above UK average burglary rate, consider installing systems that detect and respond to threats in real-time. For criminal damage and arson, which are 15% above the UK average, ensure outdoor areas are well-lit and avoid leaving valuables in visible spaces. During peak vehicle crime hours (nighttime), avoid leaving vehicles unattended in poorly lit parking areas.

Crime in Burford shows distinct temporal patterns. Vehicle crime peaks at night (12am-6am), likely due to unoccupied parking areas and limited street lighting. Burglary is most common in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), possibly linked to periods when residents are out shopping or working, leaving properties vulnerable. Theft from the person, though rare, occurs predominantly in the evening, suggesting opportunities during local nightlife or events. The low crime rates in the morning (6am-12pm) may reflect the town's quieter nature during these hours.

Burford's crime rate (63.3 per 1,000) is 33% higher than Minster Lovell (47.7) and 41% higher than Carterton (45.0). This difference may reflect variations in population density, economic activity, or policing effectiveness. Carterton's lower rate suggests it may have fewer commercial zones or better community engagement strategies.

Given Burford's burglary rate of 8.1 per 1,000 (146% above the UK average), proactive security measures are critical. AI-powered systems can detect suspicious activity at property perimeters and trigger deterrents like automated lights and speakers. These systems learn household patterns to reduce false alarms, offering tailored protection for Burford's historic homes and unoccupied properties. A dedicated security configuration ensures the system is adapted to local vulnerabilities.