Quick Facts
- York’s Crime Rate: 96 crimes per 1,000 people.
- Most Dangerous Areas:
- Westfield: 161 crimes out of 1,000 people.
- Guildhall: 123 crimes out of 1,000 people.
- Clifton: 110 crimes out of 1,000 people.
- Safest Areas:
- Heworth Without: 24 crimes out of 1,000 people.
- Rawcliffe & Clifton Without: 50 crimes per 1,000 people.
- Dringhouses & Woodthorpe: 50 crimes out of 1,000 people.
- Most Common Crimes: Violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour, and shoplifting.
Source: CrimeRate
Table of Contents

Is York Safe?
York has a crime rate of 96 crimes per 1,000 people, ranking it as the 35th safest city across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Considering the UK is already one of the safest countries in the world, visitors and residents alike can feel reassured that the risk of experiencing crime in York is relatively low.
In today’s article we’ll be answering the question “Is York Safe?” by taking a closer look at York’s crime statistics. We’ll also highlight the safest and most dangerous areas, as well as practical safety tips for residents and businesses.
Is York A Safe Place To Live?
As with any city in the UK, crime rate depends on the neighbourhood. According to CrimeRate data, York is the 31st most dangerous town in North Yorkshire. In 2023 the city had a crime rate of 93 crimes per 1,000 people, however this increased to 96 crimes per 1,000 people in 2024.
Although York’s crime rates have recently increased, when compared to all towns, cities, and villages across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, York is the 1,158th most dangerous. This statistic should be reassuring for those who living, studying, or working in the city.
What Are The Safest Areas In York?
The safest areas in York are located in villages, small towns and suburban areas. These areas are perfect for families, students, and professionals who are in search of a better quality of life, and offer a host of outdoor activities and places to explore.
These are York’s safest areas and their crime rates, according to latest data:
- Heworth Without: 24 crimes per 1,000 people.
- Rawcliffe & Clifton Without: 50 crimes per 1,000 people.
- Dringhouses & Woodthorpe: 50 crimes per 1,000 people.
What Are The Most Dangerous Areas In York?
In contrast, the most dangerous areas in York have much higher crime rates. These areas are located closer to the town centre and in the suburbs, but still offer parks and green areas to enjoy the great outdoors.
York’s most dangerous areas, according to latest data are:
- Westfield: 161 crimes per 1,000 people.
- Guildhall: 123 crimes per 1,000 people.
- Clifton: 110 crimes per 1,000 people.
Data shows the most common crimes in these areas in 2024 were violence and sexual offences and shoplifting.
Whether you’re living, studying or working in these areas, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure safety. We’ll take a look at some practical safety tips for residents and businesses later in this article.
What Are The Most Common Crimes In York?
According to CrimeRate, the top five crimes in 2024 were:
- Violence and sexual offences
- Anti-social behaviour
- Shoplifting
- Criminal damage and arson
- Public order
Violence and sexual offences had the highest number of incidents, with 4,573 offences reported, equating to 37 crimes per 1,000 people.
Anti-social behaviour was also a significant issue, with 3,506 incidents reported, equating to 29 crimes per 1,000 people.
Shoplifting crimes were reported 1,933 times, equating to 15 crimes out of 1,000 people.
Criminal damage and arson crimes were reported 1,159 times, equating to 9 crimes out of 1,000 people.
Finally, out of the top five most common crimes in York, public order crimes were reported the least, with 808 offences, equating to 6 crimes out of 1,000 people.
How To Stay Safe In York
Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or just visiting, implementing practical safety measures can help you feel more secure and enjoy everything this ancient city has to offer. Here are some crime prevention tips, so you can stay safe in York:
Tips for Residents
- Secure Your Home: Ensure your property is well-lit and deter intruders by installing high quality locks on doors and windows.
- Invest in Security Technology: Protect your home by installing CCTV, alarm systems and motion-sensor lights to help deter burglars.
- Protect Your Belongings: Whether at home or in public, secure valuables and keep them out of sight to minimise risk of theft.
Tips for Businesses
- Manned Guarding: Create a secure and welcoming environment with fully licensed security guards stationed at your business premises.
- CCTV Monitoring Services: Consider 24/7 professional surveillance and real-time monitoring of your business premises to detect and respond to suspicious activity, and for added peace of mind.
- Keyholding and Alarm Response: These offer swift intervention of alarm activations on your business premises, ensuring continuous safety for employees, customers and visitors.
Conclusion: Is York Safe?
York is known for its cathedral and historic streets, particularly the Shambles, which is believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the film adaptation of Harry Potter. It’s a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.
However, as discussed in this article, in 2024 York’s crime rate increased from 93 to 96 crimes per 1,000 people. Even though there has been a rise in crime, the city’s statistics are amongst the lowest compared to most major cities across the UK. This makes York one of the safest cities to live, study and work in.
Has this article peaked your interest in learning more about our nationwide security guarding services? Explore your options on our services page. Region Security Guarding offers construction security, warehouse security, and retail security across York.
If you found this article useful, you can learn more about crime rates in Yorkshire and the Humber and other regions on our News & Insights page.
Business Security You Can Rely On
Trusted by leading businesses nationwide for reliable, 24/7 protection.
or call 0330 912 2033
We have used Region security for quite a while now. Top notch service, great guards and helpful staff. We love our guards and the team for all of their help / work. No need to try the other companies at all."
Andy Yeomans - Principle Director
Great company, professional services, friendly guards and helpful at times when required."
Rob Pell - Site Manager
A professional and reliable service. Always easy to contact and has never let us down with cover. No hesitation in recommending and competitively priced also. After using an unreliable costly company for several years it is a pleasure to do business with Region Security"
Jane Meier - Manager