Edinburgh, a city steeped in history and culture, captivates nearly five million tourists annually with its enchanting atmosphere and architectural beauty. The city’s charm is not only a draw for tourists but also serves as a backdrop for the daily lives of over half a million residents. Edinburgh’s diverse population, encompassing a thriving university community, various residential styles from high-rise apartments to stately homes, contributes to a dynamic urban tapestry.
Despite its many allurements, Edinburgh, like any major city, faces challenges, including crime which varies widely across its many districts. Recognizing the importance of safety and informed decision-making, it is vital to consider the varying levels of crime in different areas of the city. This blog aims to guide potential residents and business owners by highlighting the areas in Edinburgh where crime rates are notably higher. Our goal is to provide key insights into these areas, offering statistics and contextual comparisons to the broader city to aid in making well-informed decisions about where to live or operate a business. Let’s take a closer look at Edinburgh’s most challenging neighborhoods, focusing on the factual data that paints a clearer picture of each district.
What Are The Overall Crime Statistics in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, stands as a celebrated mix of historical architecture and vibrant cultural festivals such as the Fringe and Hogmanay. It has undergone extensive modernization over the centuries and now boasts significant business growth and connectivity throughout Scotland and into England.
However, despite its thriving development and allure, Edinburgh contends with rising crime rates. Presently, the city experiences 87.7 crimes per 1000 residents, positioning it as the seventh most dangerous area in Scotland. From the beginning of 2023 into 2024, the city reported a total of 34,976 criminal incidents. A closer analysis reveals that crimes of dishonesty tally up to 17,099 cases, road traffic offenses account for 8,439 instances, and violent crimes reach a total of 7,278 recorded events. These figures highlight the underlying issues of safety and security across Edinburgh.
While these numbers provide a snapshot of the entire city, the crime rates vary greatly between different districts. The following sections will detail the specific areas in Edinburgh that are most affected by crime, comparing their rates to the city’s averages to better understand the distinct challenges these neighborhoods face.
The 10 Most Dangerous Areas of Edinburgh Revealed
10. Fountainbridge & Craiglockhart
Overall Crime Rate Of 68.3 Crimes Per 1000 People
Fountainbridge and Craiglockhart blend modern urban developments with historic elements, drawing residents and visitors alike. Despite its popularity, the area reports a crime rate of 68.3 per 1000 people. Key issues here include crimes against property and vehicle-related offenses, with noticeable incidents of violent assaults showing an uptick.
9. Craigentinny & Duddingston
Overall Crime Rate Of 70.6 Crimes Per 1000 People
Craigentinny and Duddingston, known for their extensive green spaces and scenic views, maintain a crime rate slightly below Edinburgh’s average at 70.6 crimes per 1000 people. However, the area faces challenges with property crimes, vehicle thefts, and vandalism, demanding attention for enhanced safety.
8. Forth
Overall Crime Rate Of 73.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
Positioned in Edinburgh’s northern reaches, Forth is celebrated for its coastal scenery and vibrant community hubs in areas like Granton and Victoria Park. The crime rate here sits at 73.9 per 1000 people, with significant occurrences in property and vehicle crimes, alongside a substantial rate of vandalism.
7. Southside & Newington
Overall Crime Rate Of 78.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
Southside and Newington serve as a central locale for the University of Edinburgh, drawing a large student population. With a crime rate of 78.9 crimes per 1000 residents, the ward faces notable challenges with property crimes and vehicle-related offenses, which significantly impact the area’s safety profile.
6. Liberton & Gilmerton
Overall Crime Rate Of 82.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
Liberton and Gilmerton offer a mix of nature reserves and residential spaces, making them attractive for both long-term residents and newcomers. However, the area’s crime rate of 82.9 per 1000 people reflects ongoing concerns, primarily related to property and vehicle crimes, with vandalism also presenting significant issues.
5. Portobello & Craigmillar: A Coastal Contrast
Portobello & Craigmillar, known for the sandy stretches of Portobello Beach, contrasts sharply with its scenic views as it records an overall crime rate of 84 per 1000 people. This area, which includes the bustling neighborhoods of Niddrie, Bingham, and Brunstane, experiences a variety of crime issues. Predominantly, crimes of dishonesty lead, with 905 reported offences including a notable amount of shoplifting at 312 incidents. Additionally, the area sees significant motor vehicle crimes and criminal damage, marking it as a spot with safety concerns despite its picturesque locale.
4. Almond: Beauty Masking Challenges
The Almond ward, named after the river flowing through areas like Kirkliston and Cramond, experiences an average crime rate of 87.3 per 1000 people. Despite the tranquility suggested by its natural surroundings and proximity to Edinburgh’s international airport, Almond faces persistent crime problems, particularly with drug-related offences that account for a significant portion of its criminal activities. Other prevalent issues include crimes of dishonesty and motor vehicle offences, reflecting a need for focused policing efforts.
3. Sighthill & Gorgie: Urban Popularity with a Price
Sighthill & Gorgie, a bustling hub in West Edinburgh that is home to the Hearts of Midlothian football team, faces a high crime rate of 102.2 per 1000 people. The area’s popularity and dense population contribute to its high crime statistics, with crimes of dishonesty and violent assaults being particularly prevalent. The area also experiences a significant number of criminal damage cases, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in this otherwise vibrant locality.
2. Leith: Navigating Urban Challenges
Leith, an area known for its residential density and small businesses, records a crime rate of 106.9 per 1000 residents. This district, bustling with activity and rivaling other parts of the city in cultural vibrancy, is particularly affected by crimes of dishonesty, with shoplifting leading the statistics. Motor vehicle offences, criminal damage, and drug offences also present significant concerns, painting a complex picture of urban life and its accompanying challenges.
1. City Centre: The Heartbeat of Edinburgh’s Crime
At the core of Edinburgh, the City Centre reports the most alarming crime rate of 267.7 per 1000 residents, making it the most challenging area in terms of safety. The blend of cultural, retail, and nightlife options attracts large crowds, which correlate with high instances of crimes, particularly of dishonesty which dominate the crime landscape. Violent assaults, motor vehicle offences, and criminal damage also feature prominently, indicating significant safety considerations for both visitors and residents alike.
How We Collect Crime Data
Our analysis of crime in Edinburgh relies on the latest figures from the Scottish Police Data repository, which includes crimes reported under the “City of Edinburgh” district. This data-driven approach ensures our crime statistics are both objective and reliable. We focus on breaking down Edinburgh into its local council wards, presenting crime rates as the number of incidents per 1,000 residents. This method considers not only the population of each ward but also factors like the density and scale of each area, providing a balanced view of local safety.
Understanding Crime Terminology
In our discussion, we adhere to the official terminology used by Police Scotland to maintain clarity and compliance with national reporting standards. Here’s a brief explanation of the key terms used:
- Crimes of Dishonesty: These crimes include theft, burglary, shoplifting, fraud, and more specialized offences such as money laundering.
- Violent Crimes: This category encompasses a range of actions from abuse and assault to racially motivated offences, domestic abuse, and serious crimes such as murder and attempted murder.
- Motor Vehicle Offences: These are incidents that involve traffic violations such as reckless driving, using a mobile phone while driving, speeding, and driving without a valid license.
- Criminal Damage: Includes acts like vandalism, damage to public property, arson, and other forms of malicious mischief.
By providing a clear understanding of these terms, we aim to present a detailed and nuanced view of crime across Edinburgh’s neighborhoods.