Worthing Crime Rate

Worthing's crime rate currently stands at 87.7 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, based on data from February 2025 to January 2026. This figure is slightly below the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000, indicating a marginally safer environment compared to the national picture. Over the period, Worthing has experienced a decrease of 6.9% in overall crime, suggesting a positive trend in reducing criminal activity. Understanding the specific types of crime prevalent in the area is essential for residents and visitors alike.

Worthing is a coastal town with a mix of residential areas, commercial districts, and tourist attractions. The town’s popularity as a holiday destination and retirement location contributes to a diverse population and a range of activities. The presence of a significant elderly population, combined with seasonal fluctuations in population due to tourism, can influence crime patterns. The town centre, with its shops and restaurants, tends to experience higher levels of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting, while residential areas are more prone to burglaries. Understanding these factors is crucial in interpreting local crime statistics and developing effective safety measures.

The most prevalent crimes in Worthing involve violence and sexual offences (3207 incidents), followed by anti-social behaviour (1730 incidents), and shoplifting (1648 incidents). Violence and sexual offences represent 28.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, while anti-social behaviour stands at 15.2 per 1,000, and shoplifting at 14.5 per 1,000. Property crime, encompassing burglary, theft, and criminal damage, collectively accounts for 31.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. While individual property crimes like burglary are relatively low (1.8 per 1,000), the overall property crime rate remains a key consideration for residents.

Worthing has seen a welcome decrease in overall crime of 6.9% year-on-year. While monthly crime rates fluctuated throughout the period, with a peak of 8.7 incidents per 1,000 in September 2025, the overall trend points towards a safer environment. Robbery, however, has increased by 52.1% year-on-year, requiring further attention, while theft from the person has significantly decreased by 48.4%. The ongoing decrease in vehicle crime (-5.8% YoY) and burglary (-6.0% YoY) are positive indicators of successful crime prevention initiatives.

Worthing's crime rate of 87.7 per 1,000 sits between its neighbours. Adur has a rate of 66.0, Arun 80.1, Brighton and Hove 113.2, Horsham 51.9, and Lewes 64.4. Horsham, with a rate of 51.9 per 1,000, presents the safest neighbouring local authority, while Brighton and Hove's 113.2 per 1,000 demonstrates a significantly higher crime rate.

Traditional CCTV systems often only record footage after a burglary has occurred. Consider a proactive security system like scOS, which uses AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary before they escalate. scOS’s multi-camera intelligence and DVLA vehicle verification capabilities can identify suspicious vehicles and individuals, deterring potential criminals and alerting you in real-time. The visible presence of a professional security system, like scOS, can often be enough to make a burglar reconsider their actions – they move on to an easier target.

How To Keep Safe in Worthing

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and consider travelling in groups where possible. With shoplifting being a common crime, secure your belongings when shopping. Be mindful of your bags and wallets, particularly in crowded areas. Report any suspicious activity to the police immediately. Finally, with bicycle theft being elevated (1.4 per 1,000), ensure your bicycle is securely locked using a robust lock and consider registering it with a local cycling scheme.