Newmarket Crime Rate

Newmarket Crime Statistics Overview

Newmarket is a secure and well-regarded town with an overall crime rate of 70.8 per 1,000 residents. This is well below the UK national average of 93.1, resulting in an excellent safety score of 83/100. When compared to the UK average safety score of 78, Newmarket stands out as a particularly safe environment. The town has also seen a positive trend in its crime statistics, with a 9.1% decrease in total crime year-over-year. This downward trajectory reflects the effectiveness of local safety initiatives and community policing, making Newmarket an increasingly safe place for both its residents and the many visitors attracted by its world-famous horse racing industry.

Crime Breakdown in Newmarket

In Newmarket, violence and sexual offences are the most common crime type, with 587 incidents recorded annually. This represents 39.9% of the town's total crime and a rate of 28.2 per 1,000 residents. Shoplifting (144 crimes) and criminal damage and arson (141 crimes) follow as the next most frequent, which is typical for a town with a busy high street and a significant number of visitors.

Property crime in Newmarket is lower than the national average, with a rate of 26.1 per 1,000 people compared to the UK's 32.9. This category includes 66 burglaries and 57 vehicle crimes. For residents, the data indicates that while violent crime is the primary statistical concern, opportunistic theft and criminal damage are also persistent issues. The burglary rate of 3.2 per 1,000 is slightly higher than in some neighbouring towns, suggesting that homeowners should prioritise robust security measures to protect their property and belongings.

Newmarket Crime Trends

Newmarket's crime statistics show a positive trend, with a 9.1% decrease in total crime year-over-year. A closer look at the monthly trendData reveals that the crime rate fluctuated throughout 2024 and 2025, starting at 4.8 per 1,000 in November 2024. The town experienced its highest crime rate in August 2025, reaching 7.8 per 1,000 residents.

This summer peak is common in urban areas and was followed by a decrease, with the rate ending at 6.6 in October 2025. Other significant months include January and April, which both saw higher than average activity. Despite these fluctuations, the overall trend is downward, suggesting that Newmarket is becoming a safer place. For residents, this decrease is reassuring, although the higher rates in the summer and certain spring months indicate a need for continued vigilance during those times.

How To Keep Safe in Newmarket

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crimes in Newmarket, often associated with the town's social scene and race days. To stay safe, always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or when out at night. Stick to well-lit main roads and travel with friends whenever possible.

To protect your home from burglary and criminal damage, ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked and that high-value items are kept out of sight. In the town centre, be mindful of your belongings in busy retail areas to prevent shoplifting and other thefts. If you own a vehicle, always lock it and avoid leaving any valuables inside. For horse racing enthusiasts visiting the town, using official parking and staying in well-populated areas can further enhance personal safety. Reporting any suspicious activity to the local police via 101 helps them build a better picture of crime in the area and allocate resources effectively.

Crime Timing in Newmarket

Crime in Newmarket follows distinct patterns throughout the day, closely tied to the town's social and commercial rhythms. During the morning and afternoon, theft is the most significant crime type, accounting for 41-42% of incidents. This is the period when shoplifting and other opportunistic thefts are most likely to occur in the town's retail areas. Burglary also peaks proportionally in the afternoon, reaching 19% of recorded crimes.

In the evening and night, the focus shifts. The 'Other' category, which includes public order and anti-social behaviour, peaks in the evening at 54%, coinciding with the town's nightlife and social activity. The night hours (12am - 6am) see a significant spike in vehicle crime, which accounts for 30% of incidents during this period. Burglary also remains a concern overnight, representing 21% of crimes. These patterns suggest that property and vehicle security should be a priority during the quiet, late-night hours, while personal awareness is key during the busy daytime and evening periods.

Regional Safety Context

Newmarket is located near several areas with varying crime profiles. Nearby Exning has a significantly higher crime rate of 105.2 per 1,000, while Cheveley is much lower at 30.7. Other neighbouring areas like Snailwell and Landwade report crime rates of 0.0, highlighting the quiet nature of these small villages. As a major town and a hub for the horse racing industry, Newmarket naturally sees more activity than its rural neighbours, but it remains very safe by national standards. For those living in or visiting the area, Newmarket offers a secure urban environment with safety levels far superior to many other towns of its size.

Proactive Property Security in Newmarket

With a property crime rate of 26.1 per 1,000, Newmarket residents should consider enhancing their home security. Traditional security systems, like basic alarms or recording-only cameras, are often reactive—they provide evidence after a crime has occurred. In a town where burglary and vehicle crime are persistent risks, a more proactive approach is needed.

The scOS operating system offers an AI-powered alternative that focuses on preventing crime before it happens. By monitoring your property's boundaries in real-time, scOS can detect suspicious activity and trigger autonomous responses, such as activating security lights or audio deterrents. This immediate intervention is designed to make potential intruders move on within their critical 60-second decision window. For Newmarket homeowners, scOS provides professional-grade protection that goes beyond simple recording, ensuring that threats are stopped at the perimeter. This proactive approach is particularly effective in safeguarding homes and high-value assets in a town with a dynamic population.