Leeds, one of the fastest-growing cities in the UK, is renowned for its dynamic transformation and emerging role as a technological hub in Yorkshire and the North. With a population surpassing half a million and continuing to rise, the city offers promising opportunities for both businesses and residents.
However, alongside its growth, Leeds has also experienced a noticeable increase in crime. This blog aims to shed light on the areas most affected by criminal activity across the city, helping individuals make informed decisions about living or working in these neighbourhoods.
We’ll take a closer look at crime statistics in each area and provide insights into the most common types of crime, allowing you to better understand the current situation in Leeds.
Where Does ZAM FM Ltd Source Its Data?
At ZAM FM Ltd, we believe in providing accurate, reliable, and transparent information regarding crime statistics. To ensure an objective approach, we source our data from the official UK Police Data website. These open-source reports offer a clear and up-to-date overview of crime activity across various regions, including Leeds, which falls under the jurisdiction of the West Yorkshire Police.
The data we present is calculated as a ratio of crimes per 1,000 residents in each area over the past 12 months. This method allows us to give a more detailed and comparable analysis of crime across different areas of Leeds, accounting for variables such as population density. By using this ratio, we can provide a clearer understanding of which areas face more crime-related issues relative to their size.
To make our analysis more precise, we use the local council wards to break down the broader Leeds region. This approach gives you a more detailed view of how crime levels vary across the city, allowing for a thorough understanding of the areas most affected.
With this data, ZAM FM Ltd aims to provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about where to live or invest, based on accurate crime statistics.
What Is The Overall Crime Rate In Leeds?
Leeds, a key city in the UK and officially designated as one of the 11 “Core Cities,” has solidified its position as a central force in the nation’s economy. The city is a blend of modern technological advancements and rich historical heritage, creating a quintessential picture of urban and economic growth. Its architectural landmarks are a testament to its historical significance, while its rapid technological development reflects its future potential.
Beyond the economy, Leeds is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. It boasts a diverse range of attractions, including professional football, rugby, and cricket, as well as an array of art galleries, museums, and cultural institutions that display renowned collections of art and sculpture. Leeds’ thriving cultural and sports offerings attract people from all walks of life.
However, not all aspects of Leeds are as uplifting. A growing concern in the city is its rising crime rate. Over the past year, Leeds experienced 172.4 crimes per 1,000 residents, amounting to approximately 88,120 recorded criminal cases. The most alarming issue is the surge in violent crime, with 36,393 reported incidents, which is over 25% higher than the West Yorkshire average. Violent crime alone accounts for more than 27% of all violent offences in the region.
The city also struggles with increasing public order offences (11,689 incidents), criminal damage (7,970 incidents), and antisocial behaviour (7,088 incidents), all of which have seen year-on-year increases. These statistics reflect a growing issue within the city, though they may not be equally distributed across all areas.
In this blog, ZAM FM Ltd will explore the most dangerous areas of Leeds, comparing them to the city-wide crime rate, and providing insights into what makes these areas hotspots for criminal activity. Let’s dive into the specifics of Leeds’ crime landscape to give you a clearer understanding of where the issues are most concentrated.
#15 – Morley North
Overall Crime Rate: 130.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Morley North is a council ward located just outside the centre of Morley, covering areas like Churwell, Drighlington, and Gildersome. Despite its rural charm, Morley North faces significant challenges when it comes to crime. With an overall crime rate of 130.7 crimes per 1000 residents, the allure of this seemingly peaceful area is tarnished.
The two biggest issues troubling Morley North are violent crime, with a reported 1021 incidents, and shoplifting, which accounts for 602 offences. Together, these categories make up half of all criminal activity in the area. Adding to the concern is the rising trend of criminal damage, with 235 reported incidents, which is another key area of concern for residents and local authorities.
#14 – Morley South
Overall Crime Rate: 133.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Morley South encompasses the heart of the town of Morley and stretches into the western part of Tingley village. While the area is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning neoclassical architecture, such as the Grade-1 listed town hall, its crime rate tells a different story. With 133.7 crimes per 1000 residents, the crime levels here are higher than the average across Leeds.
The most troubling statistics stem from violent crime, with a staggering 1284 incidents reported, making up more than 40% of the total criminal activity in the area. In addition to this, public order offences are also a concern, with 430 incidents reported. A rising burglary rate, with 159 cases, further adds to the list of worries for residents and business owners alike.
#13 – Kirkstall
Overall Crime Rate: 146.3 Crimes Per 1000 People
Kirkstall, known for its historical significance with landmarks such as the Kirkstall Abbey, has become a modern residential and commercial hub in recent years. However, this development has come with its own challenges. The crime rate in Kirkstall currently sits at 146.3 crimes per 1000 residents, reflecting a growing issue in the community.
Violent crime is the most prevalent, with 1251 reported incidents, accounting for nearly 40% of all crimes in the area. Public order offences are also on the rise, with 375 cases reported, and businesses in the area are impacted by an increase in shoplifting, with 313 incidents reported.
#12 – Cross Gates & Whinmoor
Overall Crime Rate: 147.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
Cross Gates and Whinmoor have evolved over the years, from a quaint Victorian settlement into a busy commuter hub serving Leeds. However, this expansion has also led to a surge in crime, with a rate of 147.2 crimes per 1000 residents, raising concern among locals.
Violent crime tops the list, with 1476 incidents reported, making it a major issue for the community. Public order offences are also significant, with 450 reported incidents. In addition to this, the rising number of criminal damage cases (381) and shoplifting incidents (257) are creating further concerns for both residents and businesses operating in the area.
#11 – Bramley & Stanningley
Overall Crime Rate: 153.8 Crimes Per 1000 People
Bramley and Stanningley, a ward home to a range of independent businesses, supermarkets, and high street retailers, paints a picture of a thriving local economy. However, beneath this success lies a crime rate that undermines the area’s appeal. With 153.8 crimes per 1000 residents, the local crime statistics are cause for concern.
Violent crime remains the biggest challenge, with 1471 incidents, accounting for almost 40% of all crimes in the area. In addition to this, cases of criminal damage are also high, with 386 incidents reported. Antisocial behaviour is also prevalent, with 325 reported cases, and shoplifting continues to affect businesses, with 240 incidents recorded.
#10 – Temple Newsam
Overall Crime Rate: 171.8 Crimes Per 1000 People
Temple Newsam, a district steeped in history and famous for its Jacobean-era listed building, offers a blend of heritage and residential living. While its architectural beauty and rich past draw many to the area, the modern-day reality for some residents is a bit less charming, with the crime rate standing at 171.8 crimes per 1000 people.
The main issue facing Temple Newsam is a worrying increase in violent crime, with a staggering 1,251 offences reported. Alongside this, antisocial behaviour remains a prominent problem, with 487 reported cases, followed by high levels of criminal damage at 419 incidents and shoplifting, which has seen 389 reported cases. This array of challenges highlights the difficulties the district is currently grappling with in maintaining a safe environment for its community.
#9 – Middleton Park
Overall Crime Rate: 180.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Middleton Park is a council ward in Leeds that boasts 470 acres of green space, offering a scenic escape from the surrounding residential and industrial areas. The serene beauty of its park contrasts sharply with the rising crime rate, which now stands at 180.7 crimes per 1000 people.
Violent crime is the most pressing concern for Middleton Park, with 2,417 incidents reported. The area has also seen substantial numbers in public order offences, which amount to 610 incidents, and criminal damage, tallying at 505. These issues are a growing cause for alarm among both residents and local businesses, as the crime levels show an upward trend from previous years.
#8 – Headingley & Hyde Park
Overall Crime Rate: 182.1 Crimes Per 1000 People
Headingley and Hyde Park form one of the greener districts in Leeds, combining natural beauty with a bustling residential and commercial atmosphere. However, the area’s appeal is overshadowed by its high crime rate, which has climbed to 182.1 crimes per 1000 residents.
Violent crime continues to plague the region, with 1,907 reported incidents. Public order offences also contribute significantly to the area’s challenges, with 627 cases on record. Theft (595 incidents) and burglary (319 incidents) are other concerns, making this district a hotspot for various types of criminal activity. Despite its allure, Headingley and Hyde Park struggle with these safety issues, affecting both residents and visitors alike.
#7 – Beeston & Holbeck
Overall Crime Rate: 183.4 Crimes Per 1000 People
Home to Leeds United Football Club, Beeston & Holbeck is a vibrant area that attracts sports enthusiasts, residents, and businesses alike. However, the area’s diversity brings with it a number of challenges, reflected in its crime rate of 183.4 crimes per 1000 people.
Violent crime remains the biggest concern, with 1,727 incidents reported in the area. Given its busy commercial activity, the area also sees high figures for criminal damage (395 incidents), drug-related crime (378 incidents), and theft (302 incidents). These numbers point to a growing problem that both residents and businesses need to address, as the district’s crime levels continue to pose risks to its community.
#6 – Farnley & Wortley
Overall Crime Rate: 189 Crimes Per 1000 People
Farnley & Wortley is a predominantly residential area in Leeds, known for its high-rise flats, compact neighbourhoods, and local businesses that cater to its community. However, the district has seen a sharp rise in its crime rate, which now stands at 189 crimes per 1000 residents.
Violent crime accounts for nearly 43% of all criminal incidents in the area, with 2,096 offences reported. In addition to this, criminal damage has become a significant issue, with 471 recorded cases, and antisocial behaviour, which has seen 387 incidents. These growing crime figures are a source of concern for homeowners and business owners alike, as they affect the overall safety and quality of life in the area.
#5 – Killingbeck & Seacroft
Overall Crime Rate: 197.1 Crimes Per 1000 People
Killingbeck and Seacroft are areas within Leeds known for their significant share of council housing and underprivileged communities. The minimal investment in the region over the years, despite the increasing population, has contributed to its high crime rate of 197.1 crimes per 1000 residents. This means nearly 1 in 5 residents is affected by criminal activity, making it one of the more vulnerable areas in Leeds.
The most common issue here is violent crime, with a staggering 2,256 reported incidents. This is not an isolated problem in this area; it reflects a wider trend across the city. Public order offences are also a serious concern, with 715 incidents recorded, followed closely by criminal damage cases, which amounted to 493 incidents. Another area of worry is burglary, with 272 reported cases, marking one of the highest rates across Leeds.
#4 – Armley
Overall Crime Rate: 229.5 Crimes Per 1000 People
Armley, once a bustling hub for the milling industry, has evolved into a densely populated residential area characterized by tower blocks and Victorian terraced homes. Unfortunately, this density has contributed to its high crime rate of 229.5 crimes per 1000 residents, placing it among the more problematic areas in Leeds.
Violent crime remains the biggest challenge, with 2,613 reported incidents, posing a threat to both residents and businesses. Criminal damage is another significant issue, with 653 cases recorded, impacting local properties. Furthermore, Armley has seen a spike in shoplifting, with 333 incidents, making it one of the highest rates in the city.
#3 – Gipton & Harehills
Overall Crime Rate: 241.4 Crimes Per 1000 People
Gipton and Harehills make up one of Leeds’ largest council wards, with a population of approximately 30,879 people. The close proximity of residents in flats, housing schemes, and inner-city streets has led to a crime rate of 241.4 per 1000 people, making it one of the most densely affected areas in Leeds.
The area is plagued by violent crime, with 3,122 incidents accounting for around 42% of all criminal activity. Alongside this, there are considerable public order offences, with 963 recorded cases. Criminal damage (642 incidents) and antisocial behaviour (517 incidents) also stand out as pressing concerns. Drug-related crimes are another area of worry, with 389 incidents recorded, equating to over one offence per day in the region.
#2 – Burmantofts & Richmond Hill
Overall Crime Rate: 242.8 Crimes Per 1000 People
Burmantofts and Richmond Hill, historically rooted in Leeds’ industrial heritage, are now predominantly residential areas. Despite their appealing characteristics for young families and entrepreneurs, the area has one of the highest crime rates in the city, with 242.8 crimes per 1000 residents.
Violent crime is the most alarming issue here, with 2,990 incidents reported. Public order offences are also prominent, with 878 cases, and the area is particularly concerning for its shoplifting (480 incidents) and theft (432 incidents) rates, both of which contribute significantly to the overall crime figures in the ward.
#1 – Hunslet, Riverside & City Centre
Overall Crime Rate: 615.6 Crimes Per 1000 People
Leeds’ City Centre, including Hunslet and Riverside, represents the beating heart of the city, with its vibrant retail spaces, renowned educational institutions, and bustling nightlife. However, this central location also bears the unfortunate title of the most dangerous area in Leeds, with a staggering crime rate of 615.6 crimes per 1000 residents.
Violent crime is the most prevalent issue, with 6,216 reported offences, making up 31% of all crimes in the area. The city centre also faces a significant problem with shoplifting, accounting for 2,510 incidents. Public order crimes (2,198 incidents) and theft (1,885 incidents) further illustrate the challenges facing this bustling ward, as both residents and visitors are exposed to frequent criminal activity.