Crime statistics play a vital role in assessing the safety and security of any region. For individuals considering relocation or businesses planning to establish operations, these figures offer valuable insights into what to expect in terms of local criminal activity.
This guide focuses on Scotland, examining crime rates across its key towns and cities. We’ll analyze how different areas compare in terms of overall safety and highlight the most common types of offenses in each region. Our goal is to provide you with a clear picture of the crime landscape in Scotland, helping you make informed decisions about where to live or conduct business.
By breaking down the data, we aim to give you a thorough understanding of the security situation across Scotland’s diverse regions. This information can be particularly useful for homeowners and business operators looking to implement effective safety measures tailored to local crime trends.
How We Source And Display Our Data
Data Sources and Presentation
To provide an impartial overview of crime statistics for Scotland, we rely on data from local police forces, available on the Official Scottish Government Statistics website. This ensures accuracy and reliability in our analysis.
Crime Rate Calculation
We present crime data as a ratio of crimes per 1000 people residing in each area. This method accounts for variations in population size and geographical area, allowing for fair comparisons between different regions.
Terminology
We use the Scottish Government’s collective terms for crime categories. Here’s a brief explanation of these terms:
Crimes of Dishonesty
- Includes theft, shoplifting, fraud, and breaking and entering
- Covers offenses involving unauthorized taking of property
Damage & Reckless Behavior
- Encompasses criminal damage and arson
- Includes crimes that harm or vandalize public or private property
Crimes Against Society
- Covers drug offenses, public order offenses, and weapon possession
- Includes crimes that affect society at large
Antisocial Offenses
- Includes antisocial behavior, public drunkenness, and discriminatory abuse
- Covers various public nuisances
Road Traffic Offenses/Crimes
- Includes dangerous driving, driving under the influence, and speeding
- Covers unlawful use of vehicles (e.g., driving stolen or unregistered cars)
Our analysis examines major towns and cities across Scotland, providing insights into crime prevalence in each region. This information aims to give readers a clear understanding of the crime landscape throughout the country.
What Are The Crime Statistics For Scotland?
Scotland stands out as a unique member of the UK, boasting a diverse landscape that ranges from lush forests and rolling hills to historic cities like Edinburgh. The country’s natural beauty spans from bustling urban centers to serene lochs, winding country roads, and rugged coastlines that extend to the Orkney and Shetland islands.
The Scottish skies often display hints of the Northern Lights or light up with fireworks during Burns Night celebrations, adding to the country’s enchanting atmosphere. This picturesque setting is complemented by a relatively stable crime rate of 52.4 crimes per 1000 people, positioning Scotland among the safest regions in the UK.
However, Scotland faces specific security challenges that warrant attention:
Major Crime Categories in Scotland
Crimes of Dishonesty
- Total offences: 92,873
- Includes:
- Theft: 36,444 offences
- Shoplifting: 22,913 offences
- Fraud: 16,536 offences
Violent Crime
- Total offences: 69,286
- Current figures are the highest in the last decade of police reporting
Crimes Against Society
- Total offences: 61,059
- Includes:
- Drug possession: 23,747 offences
- Public order crimes: 23,099 offences
Regional Variations
It’s important to note that crime rates can vary significantly across different areas of Scotland. Each region has its own unique characteristics and challenges that influence local crime statistics.
In the following sections, we’ll examine some of Scotland’s most populous areas and compare their crime statistics to both the national average and UK-wide figures. This analysis will provide a more detailed understanding of the safety landscape across various parts of Scotland.
Crime Statistics & Facts for Aberdeen
Overall Crime Rate of 68.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
Aberdeen, one of Scotland’s oldest cities, blends historical charm with modern urban life along its striking North Sea coastline. Despite its picturesque setting, the city faces significant security challenges, with a crime rate of 68.9 offenses per 1000 residents, which exceeds the national average.
The total number of reported crimes in Aberdeen stands at 15,781, indicating substantial law enforcement concerns. Breaking down these figures reveals the following pattern:
- Crimes of dishonesty: 5,520 incidents
- Road traffic offenses: 5,453 incidents
- Violent crimes: 3,820 incidents
These statistics highlight the main areas of criminal activity in Aberdeen, providing valuable information for residents, businesses, and local authorities to address safety and security issues effectively.
Ayr Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 46.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
Ayr, a town on the Firth of Clyde, is known for its amber beaches and scenic riverbank walks. It boasts a relatively low crime rate of 46.2 crimes per 1000 residents.
Key crime concerns in Ayr include:
- Crimes of dishonesty: 1902 offenses
- Road traffic offenses: 1767 offenses
These figures highlight the need for effective safety measures in the area.
Coatbridge Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 54.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Coatbridge, with its industrial heritage, faces modern crime challenges. The town has a crime rate of 54.7 crimes per 1000 residents.
Major crime issues in Coatbridge:
- Crimes of dishonesty: 5315 offenses
- Theft: 1808 offenses
- Shoplifting: 1227 offenses
- Violent crime: 4050 offenses
These statistics indicate a need for enhanced security measures in Coatbridge.
Dumfries & Galloway Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 58 Crimes Per 1000 People
Dumfries, north of the Solway Firth, blends medieval history with a modern economy. The town has a crime rate of 58 crimes per 1000 residents.
Significant crime categories in Dumfries:
- Road traffic offenses: 6847 incidents
- Crimes of dishonesty: 2283 incidents
- Crimes against society: 2259 incidents
These numbers underscore the importance of robust security in Dumfries.
Dundee City Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 80.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Dundee, one of Scotland’s largest cities, faces higher crime rates despite its cultural appeal. The city reports 80.7 crimes per 1000 residents.
Primary crime concerns in Dundee:
- Road traffic crimes: 4928 offenses
- Crimes of dishonesty: 4410 offenses
- Unlawful vehicle usage: 1826 offenses
- Shoplifting: 1071 offenses
These figures suggest a need for increased vigilance and security measures in Dundee.
Dunfermline Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 51.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
Dunfermline, a former royal burgh, maintains a lower crime rate of 51.2 crimes per 1000 residents.
Main crime issues in Dunfermline:
- Road traffic offenses: 7001 incidents
- Crimes of dishonesty: 6206 incidents
Despite the lower overall rate, these numbers indicate areas where security efforts should focus in Dunfermline.
East Kilbride: Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 48.4 Crimes Per 1000 People
East Kilbride, Scotland’s sixth-largest town, offers a blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. Its crime rate of 48.4 crimes per 1000 people is relatively stable. However, the town faces challenges in:
- Road traffic offenses (4859 incidents)
- Crimes of dishonesty (4610 incidents)
- Crimes against society (4069 incidents)
Edinburgh: Key Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 60.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Scotland’s capital, known for its historic castle and rich heritage, reports a crime rate of 60.7 crimes per 1000 residents. Notable statistics include:
- Crimes of dishonesty (13,377 offenses)
- Road traffic crimes (13,501 offenses)
- Theft (5006 offenses in the last year)
Falkirk: Crime Statistics Revealed
Overall Crime Rate: 49.6 Crimes Per 1000 People
Falkirk, a former industrial hub turned retail and service center, has a below-average crime rate of 49.6 crimes per 1000 residents. Key issues include:
- Road traffic offenses (2984 incidents)
- Violent crime (2285 incidents)
- Crimes of dishonesty (2218 incidents)
Glasgow: Crime Statistics and Information
Overall Crime Rate: 76.8 Crimes Per 1000 People
Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city and a cultural powerhouse, reports a crime rate of 76.8 crimes per 1000 residents. Primary concerns are:
- Road traffic crimes (15,594 offenses)
- Crimes of dishonesty (15,165 offenses)
- Violent crimes (11,603 offenses)
Greenock, Inverclyde: Crime Stats and Facts
Overall Crime Rate: 50.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
This historic fishing port on the River Clyde has a crime rate of 50.2 crimes per 1000 residents. Main issues include:
- Crimes against society (1220 offenses)
- Crimes of dishonesty (1180 offenses)
- Crimes against public justice (515 offenses)
Hamilton: Crime Statistics Overview
Overall Crime Rate: 48.4 Crimes Per 1000 People
Hamilton, similar to East Kilbride, reports a crime rate of 48.4 crimes per 1000 residents. While exact figures are unclear, significant issues involve:
- Road traffic offenses
- Crimes of dishonesty
- Crimes against society
Inverness: Crime Statistics and Information
Overall Crime Rate: 39.4 Crimes Per 1000 People
The largest city in the Highlands boasts a low crime rate of 39.4 crimes per 1000 residents. However, challenges persist in:
- Road traffic offenses (6438 incidents)
- Crimes of dishonesty (2458 incidents)
- Crimes against society (2417 incidents)
Irvine: Crucial Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 52.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
This Northern Ayrshire town reports a crime rate of 52.2 crimes per 1000 residents. Key concerns include:
- Crimes of dishonesty (2258 incidents)
- Theft (806 incidents)
- Shoplifting (705 incidents)
Kilmarnock: Crime Statistics and Facts
Overall Crime Rate: 52.9 Crimes Per 1000 People
East Ayrshire’s largest town has a crime rate of 52.9 crimes per 1000 residents. Major issues involve:
- Road traffic offenses (2030 incidents)
- Crimes of dishonesty (2013 incidents)
- Crimes against society (1484 incidents), including drug possession and supply (695 incidents)
Kirkcaldy: Crime Statistics Guide
Overall Crime Rate: 51.2 Crimes Per 1000 People
This Fife region hub reports a crime rate of 51.2 crimes per 1000 residents. While exact figures are uncertain, significant problems include:
- Road traffic offenses
- Crimes of dishonesty
- Violent crime
Livingston, West Lothian: Key Crime Statistics
Overall Crime Rate: 50.1 Crimes Per 1000 People
This commuter town near Edinburgh has a crime rate of 50.1 crimes per 1000 residents. Primary concerns are:
- Crimes of dishonesty (3053 offenses), including theft (1160 offenses) and shoplifting (762 offenses)
- Violent crime (2503 offenses)
Motherwell: Crime Statistics and Facts
Overall Crime Rate: 54.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
This North Lanarkshire market town reports an above-average crime rate of 54.7 crimes per 1000 residents. Key issues include:
- Road traffic offenses (6166 incidents)
- Crimes of dishonesty (5315 incidents)
Paisley: A Town with Promising Safety Figures
Overall Crime Rate: 22.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Paisley, one of Renfrewshire’s largest towns, boasts an impressively low crime rate of 22.7 crimes per 1000 residents. Located in Scotland’s Lowlands, this town is known for its lush greenery and the River Cart that runs through it.
Despite the overall low crime rate, Paisley faces challenges in specific areas:
- Road traffic crimes: 855 offenses
- Crimes of dishonesty: 854 offenses
- Unlawful vehicle use: 315 offenses
These figures highlight the need for targeted security measures in Paisley.
Perth & Kinross: A Balance of Natural Beauty and Safety
Overall Crime Rate: 38.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Perth, situated on the banks of the River Tay, offers a blend of natural beauty and relatively low crime rates. With 38.7 crimes per 1000 residents, it stands out as a safer area in central Scotland.
However, Perth faces significant challenges in road traffic offenses:
- Total road traffic offenses: 5,848 incidents
- Speeding: 1,968 incidents
- Unlawful use of a vehicle: 1,636 incidents
These numbers indicate a need for improved traffic safety measures in the region.
Rutherglen: Proximity to Glasgow Brings Challenges
Overall Crime Rate: 48.4 Crimes Per 1000 People
Rutherglen, known for its proximity to Glasgow, has a higher crime rate of 48.4 crimes per 1000 residents. This former royal burgh, encompassing various residential areas, faces security concerns in three main categories:
- Road traffic offenses
- Crimes of dishonesty
- Crimes against society
While exact statistics are not fully disclosed, these areas require attention from local law enforcement and security services.
Stirling: A City Rich in History and Relatively Safe
Overall Crime Rate: 43.6 Crimes Per 1000 People
Stirling, a key city in central Scotland, maintains a below-average crime rate of 43.6 crimes per 1000 residents. This historic market town, known for its unique architecture and greenery, still faces some security challenges:
- Road traffic offenses: 1,806 incidents
- Crimes of dishonesty: 1,200 incidents
- Crimes against society: Notably high rate
These figures suggest areas where increased security efforts could be beneficial.
Wishaw: Scenic Views with Security Concerns
Overall Crime Rate: 54.7 Crimes Per 1000 People
Wishaw, located on the edge of the Clyde Valley, presents a mix of small-town charm and scenic views. However, it has a higher crime rate of 54.7 crimes per 1000 residents.
While detailed statistics are not available, Wishaw is affected by county-wide trends in:
- Road traffic offenses
- Crimes of dishonesty
- Crimes against society
These areas require focused attention to improve the overall safety of the town.