South Yorkshire, located in north-central England, is a dynamic county that includes the boroughs of Barnsley, Doncaster, and Rotherham, as well as the vibrant city of Sheffield. Once a powerhouse of the iron, steel, and mining industries, the region has successfully transitioned to modern sectors such as light manufacturing and food production.
The county’s diverse geography is one of its most striking features, attracting both visitors and new residents. From the dramatic Pennine moorlands to the tranquil Rivers Don and Dearne, South Yorkshire offers a blend of natural beauty and rich industrial heritage. The historic marshlands of Hatfield and Humberhead, though now largely drained, remain a notable part of the area’s landscape.
If you’re considering visiting or moving to the region, understanding crime in South Yorkshire is an important step. This guide provides a detailed overview of crime and security throughout the county.
Table of Contents
Is South Yorkshire Safe?
A common question about South Yorkshire is whether the county is safe. Like any region, certain areas experience higher crime rates than others. According to crime reports, Doncaster, Barnsley, and Rotherham are among the areas with more frequent criminal activity, making them relatively less safe. In contrast, Sheffield is considered one of the safest areas in South Yorkshire, with a lower crime rate overall. While no area is entirely free from crime, Sheffield is generally regarded as a more secure place to live compared to other parts of the county.
Trends in Crime in South Yorkshire
As of January 2026, South Yorkshire’s crime rate stands at 87 crimes per 1,000 people, a decline from 112 crimes per 1,000 people in previous years. This decrease reflects an overall reduction in crime, suggesting improvements in public safety.
However, certain crime categories have seen increases. Drug‑related offences, for example, have risen by 13% over the year ending June 2025, pointing to an ongoing challenge in tackling substance misuse and trafficking. Similarly, shoplifting figures have increased, with 14,998 incidents recorded in the same period, reflecting a rise in retail theft across the region.
On a positive note, public order crimes have dropped by 15.8%, signalling a decrease in disturbances and anti‑social behaviour. Burglary rates have also fallen by 12.6%, suggesting a reduction in property crimes. While some crime types remain a concern, the overall trend in South Yorkshire points to progress in safety and reducing certain offences.
A Breakdown of the Crime in South Yorkshire
To better understand the crime landscape in South Yorkshire, it’s important to examine the different types of crimes reported over the past year. This provides valuable insight into crime trends and reveals which offences have been most prevalent in the city:
| Crime | Crime Count | Crime Rate (Per 1,000 People) |
|---|---|---|
| Violence and Sexual Offences | 55,981 | 35.34 |
| Anti-Social Behaviour | 26,615 | 16.81 |
| Criminal Damage and Arson | 13,418 | 8.47 |
| Shoplifting | 13,505 | 8.53 |
| Public Order | 12,169 | 7.68 |
| Vehicle Crime | 10,401 | 6.59 |
| Other Theft | 8,602 | 5.42 |
| Burglary | 7,353 | 4.65 |
| Other Crime | 5,378 | 3.42 |
| Drugs | 5,164 | 3.26 |
| Possession of Weapons | 1,923 | 1.21 |
| Robbery | 1,941 | 1.22 |
| Theft From the Person | 947 | 0.58 |
| Bicycle Theft | 822 | 0.51 |
Where is the Safest Place to Live in South Yorkshire?
Sheffield is widely regarded as the safest place to live in South Yorkshire. In 2026, the city reported a crime rate of 84 crimes per 1,000 people, making it 3.3% lower than the regional average of 87 crimes per 1,000 people. This makes Sheffield a safer option compared to other areas in the county, where crime rates are generally higher.
While no area is completely free of crime, Sheffield’s relatively low crime rate highlights its reputation for being a secure place to live. The city’s ongoing efforts in crime reduction contribute to its appeal for those seeking a safer environment in South Yorkshire.
Doncaster Crime Rate
Doncaster has been identified as South Yorkshire’s most dangerous major town, based on data from CrimeRate. In 2026, the town recorded an overall crime rate of 134 incidents per 1,000 residents. This puts it 54% higher than South Yorkshire’s regional average of 87 crimes per 1,000 people.
Violent crime is the most significant issue facing Doncaster. While there was a modest 2.8% increase in violent incidents in 2026, the town reported 7,813 cases. This translating to an average rate of 52 violent crimes per 1,000 residents. In contrast, theft from the person was the least frequent crime, with 147 reported cases in 2026, a 7% decrease from the previous year.
To better understand crime patterns across Doncaster. We have created a detailed list of its most dangerous wards.
| Ward | Crime Count | Crime Rate (Per 1,000 People) |
|---|---|---|
| Town | 7,706 | 314 |
| Bentley | 2,699 | 130 |
| Adwick le Street & Carcroft | 2,243 | 149 |
| Hexthorpe & Balby North | 2,535 | 305 |
| Conisbrough | 1,827 | 136 |
| Norton & Askern | 1,591 | 132 |
| Balby South | 1,620 | 130 |
| Mexborough | 1,652 | 123 |
| Tickhill & Wadsworth | 1,123 | 119 |
| Roman Ridge | 1,033 | 119 |
Rotherham Crime Rate
Rotherham is recognised as South Yorkshire’s second most dangerous major town, according to CrimeRate. In 2026, the town recorded an overall crime rate of 100 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is 15% higher than South Yorkshire’s regional average of 87 crimes per 1,000 people.
Despite its relative safety, violent crime poses the greatest threat to Rotherham. In 2026, violent incidents increased by 1.5%, with 6,735 cases reported at a rate of 44 crimes per 1,000 people. In contrast, bicycle theft was the least common crime, with only 61 incidents recorded. This marks a 1.7% increase from the previous year.
For a more detailed understanding of crime trends and hotspots in Rotherham. We have compiled a comprehensive list using CrimeRate’s data.
| Ward | Crime Rate (Per 1,000 People) |
|---|---|
| Boston Castle | 267.2 |
| Rawmarsh West | 129.4 |
| Rawmarsh East | 163.3 |
| Rotherham West | 119.5 |
| Dalton & Thrybergh | 154.8 |
| Rotherham East | 151.0 |
| Greasbrough | 136.4 |
| Wath | 108.0 |
| Hoober | 104.5 |
| Keppel | 103.0 |
| Swinton Rockingham | 127.0 |
You can find a full breakdown of the most dangerous wards in Rotherham in 2024 on CrimeRate.
Barnsley Crime Rate
Barnsley ranks as the safest major town in South Yorkshire, according to CrimeRate. In 2026, the town recorded an overall crime rate of 91 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is 4.7% higher than South Yorkshire’s regional average of 87 crimes per 1,000 people, making it the 1,010th most dangerous location in the UK.
Violent crimes and sexual offences are the most prevalent in Barnsley, with 8,960 reported incidents in 2026 at a rate of 39 per 1,000 people. This figure has increased by 0.47% from 2025. In contrast, bicycle theft was the least common crime, with just 63 reported incidents. This marks a 9% increase compared to the previous year.
To provide a clearer picture of crime in Barnsley, we’ve summarised data from StreetScan, highlighting the town’s most dangerous wards based on recent statistics. Note that Central ward has the highest crime rate in Barnsley, followed by St Helens and Monk Bretton.
| Ward | Crime Rate (Per 1,000 People) |
|---|---|
| Central | 299.5 |
| St Helens | 142.6 |
| Monk Bretton | 126.4 |
| Dearne North | 124.7 |
| Stairfoot | 121.6 |
South Yorkshire Security
In South Yorkshire, safeguarding businesses against crime increasingly relies on the expertise of professional security guards. Employing security personnel provides comprehensive protection for employees, customers, and valuable assets, while also deterring criminal activities such as theft and vandalism. This proactive approach helps reduce losses and creates a safer environment for businesses to thrive.
Partnering with security firms like Region Security Guarding and similar providers offers businesses a strong line of defence against potential threats. The visible presence of trained security professionals alone can deter opportunistic criminals, reducing the likelihood of your business being targeted.
By hiring a reliable security company, businesses can significantly strengthen their defences against South Yorkshire’s crime challenges. This investment not only enhances safety but also fosters a secure environment that supports growth and productivity.
Conclusion
South Yorkshire is a region of rich contrasts, blending a proud industrial heritage with stunning natural landscapes and vibrant urban centres. While the county has made notable progress in reducing its overall crime rate, some areas, like Doncaster, Barnsley, and Rotherham, continue to face higher levels of criminal activity compared to the regional average. In contrast, Sheffield stands out as the safest area, offering a relatively low crime rate and a stronger sense of security.
Recent crime trends reveal both positive developments and ongoing challenges. Declines in public order offences, burglary, and violent crimes in certain towns signal improvements in public safety. However, the rise in drug-related offences and shoplifting highlights areas that require continued focus and community efforts.
Whether you’re planning a visit or considering a move, understanding the crime in South Yorkshire can help you make informed decisions. With its efforts to enhance safety and its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, South Yorkshire remains a dynamic and evolving place to live, work, and explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do Crime Rates Vary Between South Yorkshire Towns?
Population size, town centres, transport links, and local economic factors can all influence crime levels.
Does A Falling Regional Crime Rate Mean Every Area Is Improving?
No. Some towns may see reductions overall while specific offences or neighbourhoods experience increases.
Which Crimes Have The Biggest Impact On Communities?
Crimes that affect daily life, such as anti-social behaviour, theft, and violence, often have the greatest impact on residents.
How Can Businesses Reduce Their Exposure To Crime?
Regular risk assessments, CCTV, access control, and trained security staff can help reduce opportunities for criminal activity.
What Should Homebuyers Consider Besides Crime Statistics?
It’s worth looking at local amenities, transport, schools, regeneration projects, and long-term crime trends rather than relying on a single year’s figures.
Business Security You Can Rely On
Trusted by leading businesses nationwide for reliable, 24/7 protection.
or call 0330 912 2033
