Top 10 Safest Boroughs In London To Stay (Crime Statistics and Rates)

Which London neighbourhood is ranked the safest in terms of crime? Safety is definitely one of the most important factors for homebuyers and renters, especially in this capital, which has 32 London boroughs. While each has its own advantages and disadvantages, some stand out for their low crime rates, such as Richmond upon Thames.

That’s the reason, Real Estate Agents London shortlists the safest Boroughs in London by analysing crime rates and security trends. That undoubtedly helps you decide where to invest and live without compromising safety. 

Top 10 Safest Boroughs in London

London is generally a safe global city, but crime levels vary from borough to borough. Based on crime rates, safety ratings, and comparisons with the capital’s average, the following 10 boroughs rank among the safest places to live in London in 2025.

Richmond upon Thames 

• Safety Rating: 10.00
• Population: 198,019
• Crime per 1000 residents: 59.91 
• Crime compared to the London average: 23% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 31% lower 
• Direct Theft: 45% lower
• Bicycle Theft: 76% higher than average

Sutton

• Safety Rating: 9.87
• Population: 210,082
• Crime per 1000 residents: 63.71
• Crime compared to the London average: 38% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 20% lower 
• Direct Theft: 74% lower 
• Robbery: 59% lower 

Bexley

• Safety Rating: 9.74
• Population: 248,287
• Crime per 1000 residents: 67.79
• Crime compared to the London average: 32% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 19% lower than average
• Direct Theft: 62% lower 
• Robbery: 55% lower 

Merton

• Safety Rating: 9.77
• Population: 229,406
• Crime per 1000 residents: 66.93
• Crime compared to the London average: 22% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 16% lower
• Bicycle Theft: 5% more than average
• Robbery: 38%  lower 

Harrow

• Safety Rating: 9.85
• Population: 250,149
• Crime per 1000 residents: 64.33
• Crime compared to the London average: 25% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 22% lower than average
• Possession of weapons: 43% lower 
• Criminal damage and arson: 35% lower 

Kingston upon Thames

• Safety Rating: 9.79
• Population: 182,120
• Crime per 1000 residents: 66.22
• Crime compared to the London average: 35% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 35% lower than average
• Vehicle Crime: 51% lower 
• Robbery: 63% lower 
• Bicycle Theft: 67% higher than average

Barnet

• Safety Rating: 9.60
• Population: 389,344
• Crime per 1000 residents: 71.89
• Crime compared to the London average: 5% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 9% lower
• Burglary: 10% higher than average
• Robbery: 21% lower 

Bromley

• Safety Rating: 9.59
• Population: 332,336
• Crime per 1000 residents: 72.33
• Crime compared to the London average: 21% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 16% lower than average
• Direct Theft: 43% lower 
• Vehicle Crime: 10% higher than average

Redbridge

• Safety Rating: 9.40
• Population: 305,222
• Crime per 1000 residents:  77.91
• Crime compared to the London average: 5% lower than the average 
• Violence and sexual offences: 8% lower
• Burglary: 5% lower

Wandsworth 

• Safety Rating: 9.34
• Population: 327,506
• Crime per 1000 residents: 79.77
• Crime compared to the London average: 3% lower than the average
• Violence and sexual offences: 2% lower than average 
• Bicycle Theft: 53% higher than average
• Drugs: 17% lower 

Why These London Boroughs are Considered Safest

These neighbourhoods are known for their strong safety records, not just due to their crime statistics. Instead, many other factors also contribute to the overall safety, including: 

Crime Rates

These boroughs generally have fewer crime reports (burglary, theft, anti-social activity, and robbery) than other areas of the capital. In turn, a safer environment influences both business growth and daily lives.

Economic Stability

Areas with a stable economy and a low unemployment rate have fewer criminal incidents. As a result, it improves overall quality of life, education, housing and builds safer communities. 

For property investors, these economically stable areas offer excellent rental yields and lower vacancy rates. Learn more about managing investment properties in London’s safest boroughs. 

Infrastructure and Amenities

Well-maintained infrastructure, good lighting, and strong security measures also play a major role in keeping residents safe. Because clean streets and active public spaces reduce the chances of criminal activity. For multi-unit properties in these well-maintained areas, Block Management services ensure common areas remain secure and properly maintained. 

Local Governance

Strong local councils and governance that focus on policies that promote safety and crime prevention can result in secure neighbourhoods.

Safest Areas in London to Live by Lifestyle

When choosing a safe area to live in London, it’s essential to consider both your lifestyle and crime rates. Different people have different priorities; some look for more affordable boroughs.

The neighbourhoods below are grouped by lifestyle to make it easier to find an area that matches your needs.

Pros and Cons of the Safest London Areas

Even the safest boroughs in London come with their own advantages and disadvantages. The table below highlights the main pros and cons of each safe borough to help you quickly compare what works best for your lifestyle and priorities

London Boroughs With Higher Crime Rates

While many London boroughs are generally safe, some neighbourhoods report higher crime levels than the city’s average. There can be reasons for these increased incidents, such as high population density and large commercial and tourism areas. You can check crime rates for the specific streets using the off

The table below highlights London boroughs with comparatively higher crime rates, along with common crime types reported in these areas.

Tips To Stay Safe in London

Security and protection are top priorities when staying in London, which can be achieved by following simple steps.

1. Stay alert in busy areas: Keep your phone secure and don’t leave it unattended on a table because snatchings happen very quickly, especially on crowded streets and near roads while walking. 
2. Avoid dark or quiet areas at night: Plan your route and use main well-lit areas instead of dark, unfamiliar places.
3. Use licensed transport only: Do not accept rides from unregistered drivers; instead, prefer black cabs or licensed services such as Uber and Bolt. Check Transport for London for route information and journey planning. 
4. Keep your belongings safe: It’s better to zip bags properly and not leave them open, especially in tourist areas.
5. Extra protection for homes: Use basic home security systems, cameras, video doorbells, and alarms.
6. Know evacuation routes: If you live in a multi-storey building, it’s beneficial to know emergency exits and evacuation routes.
7. Stay aware when using headphones: Keep one ear free if you’re using AirPods in public to hear what’s happening around. 
8. Know local emergency support contacts: Always save emergency numbers. In the UK, dial 999 for emergencies and 101 for non-emergency police. If you witness a crime or suspicious activity, you can report it to the police or anonymously through Crimestoppers

Conclusion: Why Safety Matters in London?

Safety is an important factor when deciding where to live and spend time in London. Areas like Richmond upon Thames, Sutton, and Bromley provide peace of mind, a better quality of life, strong communities, and higher property demand. If you are a landlord or property investor focusing on the safest boroughs in London, professional Property Management services can help you maximise returns while ensuring tenant satisfaction in these desirable locations.

FAQs for Safest Boroughs in London