Malmesbury Crime Rate

Crime statistics for Malmesbury, Wiltshire, reveal an annual crime rate of 42.8 per 1,000 residents for the period Jan 2025 to Dec 2025. This figure is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, indicating a relatively safer environment compared to the national picture. Malmesbury boasts a safety score of 90/100, further reinforcing this impression. While crime does occur, the overall trend has been positive, with a decrease of 5.4% year-on-year. Understanding the nuances of these statistics is crucial for residents and visitors alike, allowing for informed decisions and proactive safety measures.

The crime landscape in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, is primarily shaped by the area’s characteristics as a historic market town with a mix of residential and commercial properties. The presence of a vibrant town centre attracts visitors and can, unfortunately, contribute to incidents of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. The area's relatively small population size means that even a modest number of reported crimes can significantly impact the crime rate per 1,000 residents. Demographics also play a role; while Malmesbury generally enjoys a stable community, the interplay of different age groups and socioeconomic factors can influence the types of crimes observed. The town’s historic buildings and attractive location also make it a potential target for criminal damage and arson, although these incidents remain relatively infrequent.

The crime rate in Malmesbury has been steadily decreasing, exhibiting a decline of 5.4% year-on-year. This positive trend is reflected in the monthly data, which shows a general downward pattern from January 2025 (3.9 per 1,000/month) to December 2025 (2.6 per 1,000/month). While there are fluctuations month to month – notably a peak in July 2025 (5.6 per 1,000/month) – the overall trajectory demonstrates a welcome reduction in criminal activity.

How To Keep Safe in Malmesbury

Given that violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent crime type in Malmesbury, it’s crucial to remain vigilant in public spaces. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Consider joining or supporting local neighbourhood watch schemes to foster a sense of community and shared responsibility. With anti-social behaviour also being a concern, reporting any suspicious activity to the police is vital. Finally, secure your belongings and be aware of potential pickpockets in crowded areas, particularly during market days.

The pattern of crime in Malmesbury varies throughout the day. Burglary incidents are most frequently reported during the afternoon (12pm-6pm), with a slight increase in the evening hours. Vehicle crimes tend to be more common overnight (12am-6am), suggesting a vulnerability during periods of low visibility and reduced activity. Theft is often concentrated during commercial hours, likely related to retail activity. Violence and public order offences are most prevalent during the evening hours, particularly on weekends.

Compared to similar areas in Wiltshire, Malmesbury’s crime rate stands out. Lea and Corston report no crimes at all, while Great Somerford exhibits a rate of 20.6 per 1,000, highlighting Malmesbury's comparatively favourable position. The differences in these rates likely reflect variations in population density, economic activity, and local community dynamics. These comparisons offer a broader perspective on the relative safety of Malmesbury within the wider Wiltshire region.

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