For many Londoners, the dream of a life outside the capital involves a delicate balance: the desire for more space and a safer community versus the need for a manageable commute. Hemel Hempstead has long been a top contender for those making the move, offering excellent transport links and a promise of a calmer lifestyle. But a crucial question always comes first: what is the Hemel Hempstead crime rate, and how does it compare to life in London?
At London Stays, we help people navigate the capital, but we also understand the motivations for looking beyond it. This guide is for the discerning Londoner doing their due diligence. We’ll explore the official crime statistics for Hemel Hempstead, put them in context, and help you understand the safety landscape of this key commuter town.
Understanding the Latest Crime Statistics in Hemel Hempstead
According to the most recent data from Hertfordshire Constabulary, the crime rate in Hemel Hempstead is categorised as ‘Average’ for the region. The overall rate is approximately 88 crimes per 1,000 people.
The most important takeaway from this figure is that it is significantly lower than the average rate for London. For anyone accustomed to the baseline of vigilance required in a major global city, the environment in Hemel Hempstead will likely feel markedly safer and more relaxed. However, ‘Average’ for Hertfordshire doesn’t mean non-existent, so let’s break down what these figures are made of.
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A Deeper Dive: What the Numbers Mean for Residents
The overall Hemel Hempstead crime rate provides a useful benchmark, but the specifics are what matter for day-to-day life.
- Common Offences: The most frequently reported crimes in Hemel Hempstead fall into the categories of anti-social behaviour (ASB), theft (particularly from shops in the town centre), and criminal damage. These are common in any town of its size and are often concentrated around commercial areas.
- Violent Crime: While violent crime occurs, its rate is notably lower than in major urban centres. The majority of residents will not experience or witness it. Hertfordshire Constabulary places a strong emphasis on tackling the drivers of violent crime, ensuring it remains a priority.
- Burglary: As a relatively affluent commuter town, residential burglary is a key concern for local police. Rates are actively monitored, and police often promote community safety schemes like Owl (Online Watch Link) to share information and prevent offences. Compared to many London boroughs, the risk of burglary is statistically lower.
- Vehicle Crime: With higher car ownership than in London, vehicle crime (theft from or of a vehicle) is a reported issue. This is often opportunistic, and police advice focuses on preventative measures like not leaving valuables on display.
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Community and Policing: The Local Approach to Safety
One of the significant differences you’ll notice when moving from London to a town like Hemel Hempstead is the style of policing. While London’s Met Police is vast, Hertfordshire Constabulary operates on a more local level.
Hemel Hempstead has dedicated Safer Neighbourhood Teams. These teams consist of PCs and PCSOs who are assigned to specific areas and work with local residents and businesses to solve persistent problems. This community-focused approach can be more responsive to quality-of-life issues like ASB and allows residents to build a relationship with their local officers—something often difficult to achieve in the anonymity of London.
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Conclusion
For the Londoner weighing their options, the Hemel Hempstead crime rate should be a source of confidence. The statistics clearly show a safer environment than the capital, with lower instances of most major crime categories. The town is not crime-free—no place is—but the challenges it faces are those typical of a large, prosperous town rather than a sprawling metropolis.
The move from London to Hemel Hempstead represents a tangible step up in terms of day-to-day safety and peace of mind. By exercising the same common sense you would anywhere, you can fully embrace the benefits of commuter town life: the green spaces, the strong community feel, and a welcome feeling of security for you and your family.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is Hemel Hempstead a safe place to live?
Yes, Hemel Hempstead is considered a safe place to live. Its crime rate is significantly lower than the average for London and is classified as average for the relatively safe county of Hertfordshire. - Which areas of Hemel Hempstead are considered the safest?
Areas further from the town centre, such as the leafy suburbs of Boxmoor and Apsley, are generally considered to have the lowest crime rates. They are very popular with families and professionals. - How is anti-social behaviour (ASB) handled in the town?
Dacorum Borough Council and Hertfordshire Constabulary work in partnership to tackle ASB. They use a range of tools, from warning letters and community resolutions to legal injunctions for persistent offenders, with a focus on resolving issues before they escalate. - How can I get local crime updates for Hemel Hempstead?
Residents can sign up for the Owl (Online Watch Link) messaging service, which provides email alerts from local police about ongoing issues, crime prevention advice, and witness appeals. It is a highly effective way to stay informed.
