Quick Facts

• Cardiff’s Crime Rate: 118 crimes per 1,000 people, 36% higher than the national average.
• Most Dangerous Areas:
  • Adamsdown: 187 crimes per 1,000 people.
  • Caerau: 157 crimes per 1,000 people.
  • Riverside: 150 crimes per 1,000 people.
• Safest Areas:
  • Rhiwbina: 35 crimes per 1,000 people.
  • Heath: 39 crimes per 1,000 people.
  • Cyncoed: 41 crimes per 1,000 people.
• Most Common Crimes: Violent offences, anti-social behaviour, and shoplifting.

Source: CrimeRate

Is Cardiff Safe?

Cardiff is the vibrant capital of Wales, but is unfortunately a city of contrasts. Cardiff is the most dangerous city in its region, with crime rates far higher than the national average. However, by staying alert and following basic safety precautions, both residents and visitors can enjoy the city with confidence.

In 2023, Cardiff recorded a crime rate of 118 incidents per 1,000 people, which is a startling 36% higher than the national crime rate.

Despite this, the city is making significant strides in improving safety. The government is committed to addressing ongoing public safety challenges, with plans to add 13,000 additional neighbourhood police officers and PCSOs (Police Community Support Officers) across Wales. This initiative highlights their determination to beat the ongoing struggle maintaining public safety within the city.

Is Cardiff a Safe Place to Live?

Cardiff is a dynamic city with much to offer, but, like any large urban area, safety can vary between neighbourhoods. Surburbs like Rhiwbina and Heath are known for their low crime rates and strong sense of community, making them popular for those seeking a safer environment.

In contrast, areas such as Adamsdown, Caerau, and Riverside experience much higher crime rates. By carefully choosing a neighbourhood and taking precautions, like securing property and staying aware, residents can enjoy a safe and fulfilling life in Manchester.

What Are the Most Common Crimes in Cardiff?

Cardiff faces a range of criminal activities, with some types occurring more frequently than others:

• Violence and Sexual Offences: The most common crime, with over 13,000 incidents reported in 2022/2023.
• Anti-Social Behaviour: A significant concern, with 6,026 cases recorded.
• Shoplifting: With 5,979 incidents reported.
• Public Order: With 4,718 cases.
• Vehicle Crime: A notable concern, with 3,455 cases reported.
• Criminal damage and arson: A positive trend, as incidents decreased by 5% to 3,362 cases this year.

Crime remains an ongoing challenge for Cardiff, with all but one crime category growing more dangerous by the year.

Is Crime in Cardiff Increasing?

Unfortunately, Cardiff’s high crime rate only seems to be getting worse, showing a negative shift. According to CrimeRate, compared to the previous year, there has been:

• A 5% decrease in criminal damage and arson.
• A 13% rise in violence and sexual offences.
• A 52% gain in robbery.
• A 47% climb in shoplifting.

Improved policing looks to play a significant role in battling the growing crime rates, though unfortunately it appears to be proving quite the challenge.

What Are the Most Dangerous Areas in Cardiff?

While Cardiff is home to many safe and thriving neighbourhoods, some areas experience higher crime rates. Based on recent crime statistics, here are the three most affected areas:

• Adamsdown: With a crime rate of 187 crimes per 1,000 people, Adamsdown ranks as the most crime-affected area. The area grapples most with violent offences and anti-social behaviour.
• Caerau: Caerau has a crime rate of 157 crimes per 1,000 people. The area struggles with a higher presence of violent offences and anti-social behaviour.
• Riverside: With a crime rate of 150 crimes per 1,000 people, Riverside is marginally safer than Caerau, but still faces a significant level of criminal activity. Violent offences and anti-social behaviour are common, much like Adamsdown and Caerau.

Residents in these areas can improve their safety by taking practical measures, such as securing their homes, staying alert in busy public spaces, and considering professional security services when necessary.

What Are the Safest Areas in Cardiff?

Despite its challenges, Cardiff is home to several neighbourhoods known for their safety and strong community focus:

• Rhiwbina: Rhiwbina’s crime rate of just 35 incidents per 1,000 residents makes it the safest area in Cardiff.
• Heath: Heath comes second only to Rhiwbina, with a crime rate of 39 crimes per 1,000 residents.
• Cyncoed: Marginally more dangerous than Heath, Cyncoed has a crime rate of 41 crimes per 1,000 residents.

These neighbourhoods combine safety with a high quality of life, making them ideal for families, professionals, and students seeking a secure and community-oriented place to live.

How Does Cardiff Compare to Other UK Cities?

Over the last 12 months, Cardiff (116.95) has ranked more dangerous than Nottingham (110.86), Camden (108.07) and Sheffield (102.94). For comparison:

• London: 100 crimes per 1,000 people
• National Average (England, Wales and Northern Ireland): 84 crimes per 1,000 people

When it comes to violent crime, Cardiff ranks 39th among UK cities. This places it lower than cities like Liverpool and Birmingham, though it’s still important to treat violent crime as a serious concern for both residents and visitors.

How Does Cardiff Compare Globally?

According to Numbeo’s safety index, Cardiff scores 59.9, slightly above Bonn, Germany, and its score of 59.7. Overall, it ranks 76th out of 314 cities globally, making it safer than cities like Paris and Frankfurt, but more dangerous than Munich and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Unfortunately, the crime increasing in the past 5 years is docked as 60.77 by Numbeo, which is high. This reflects poorly on the city, and only adds more concerns about Cardiff being the most dangerous city in its region.

How to Stay Safe in Cardiff: Practical Tips

Whether you’re a resident or a business owner, there are several proactive measures you can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime:

For Residents:

• Secure Your Home: Ensure high-quality locks, reinforced doors, and well-lit exteriors to enhance security.
• Utilise Technology: Install CCTV cameras and alarm systems, which can serve as effective deterrents.
• Protect Your Belongings: Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, whether at home or in your vehicle.

For Businesses:

Businesses in Cardiff, particularly in higher-risk areas, should consider professional security services. Some effective options include:

• Alarm Response and Keyholding Services: These provide peace of mind during off-hours, ensuring a swift response to security incidents.
• Mobile Patrols: Regular patrols can help deter potential offenders and maintain a visible security presence.
• On-Site Security Personnel: Having security staff on-site offers comprehensive protection, monitoring the premises and responding to incidents as they arise.

Conclusion: How Safe is Cardiff?

Cardiff’s safety, like that of any other major city, varies depending on the neighbourhood and the precautions individuals take to protect themselves and their property. However, the city’s crime rates are higher than the national average, which paint Cardiff as the most dangerous area in its region.

It is important to note that this can easily be avoided by choosing a secure neighbourhood to visit or move to, and adopting practical safety measures. This allows residents and visitors to enjoy the rich culture, diverse opportunities, and lively atmosphere that Cardiff has to offer.

Choose Region Security Guarding for Reliable Security Solutions in Cardiff

At Region Security Guarding, we have proudly supported Cardiff residents and businesses in staying safe for over a decade. As a trusted leader in the security industry, we bring extensive expertise and a commitment to excellence:

• SIA-accredited professionals delivering reliable, high-quality security services.
• 24/7 protection, ensuring your business is safeguarded every day of the year.

From SIA-licensed security guards to mobile patrols and tailored security solutions, our team is ready to meet your specific needs.

Contact us today to discover how we can help protect what matters most in Cardiff.