Understanding crime rates in London is essential before buying or renting. Overall crime in London is above average nationally, with violent crime high in inner zones and burglary rates medium. But these averages hide enormous variation — the safest postcodes in London are dramatically different from the highest crime ones.
Trend: Falling overall — down 8% in the past year.
London has 9 million people — comparing it as a whole is misleading. A postcode in Richmond is as safe as any small market town. A postcode in Westminster city centre has crime rates comparable to major European capitals. Always check the specific postcode.
Live Police UK data broken down by crime type — free, no sign-up, 30 seconds.
The most accurate way to assess crime in London is to check the specific postcode you're considering. Know My Postcode pulls live Police UK data for any postcode, showing total crime by category and comparing it against the regional average — so you can instantly see how any London address compares.
Crime statistics are updated monthly from Police UK. Always check before booking a viewing — crime rates can vary dramatically between streets in the same neighbourhood.