If you are thinking about moving to Plymouth or renting a short-term or long-term apartment in the city, understanding the Plymouth crime rate helps you choose the right neighbourhood with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in a simple, human-centred way, so you can make an informed decision without stress or confusion.
Overview of Crime in Plymouth
Plymouth is a coastal city in Devon known for its maritime history, universities, and peaceful residential areas. Overall, the city sits close to the national average for crime in England and Wales. Crime levels vary significantly between neighbourhoods, which is why choosing the right area matters.
Plymouth generally experiences:
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Moderate levels of anti-social behaviour
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Lower violent crime than many major UK cities
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Pockets with higher crime—mostly around nightlife and city-centre areas
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Safer family-friendly suburbs further from the centre
When deciding where to stay, your goal is to focus on neighbourhoods that offer stability, good transport links, and a calm environment.
The Safest Areas in Plymouth
Here are some of the most popular and secure places to live or rent:
Plympton
A quiet suburb ideal for families and professionals. Crime levels stay low throughout the year, and the community feel is strong.
Peverell
Close to Central Park yet calm and safe. Highly rated for renters who want both convenience and peace.
Mannamead
A popular residential area with well-kept streets, mostly owner-occupied homes, and low reported crime.
Hartley
One of the quieter, more affluent neighbourhoods with consistently low crime statistics.
Sutton Harbour
Modern apartments, waterfront living, good security, and lower crime compared to central areas.
If you prefer somewhere safe, peaceful, and close to amenities, these areas consistently outperform the rest of the city.
Read also- Best Neighbourhoods to Live in London
Higher-Crime Areas to Be Aware Of
These areas aren’t necessarily unsafe but tend to report higher crime, mostly due to:
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Nightlife
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Student population
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Proximity to the city centre
Examples include:
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Stonehouse
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Stoke
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Greenbank
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Mutley Plain (nightlife hub)
These neighbourhoods can still be great options, especially for young renters, but it helps to stay aware and choose well-reviewed buildings or serviced apartments.
What Types of Crimes Are Most Common in Plymouth?
Plymouth’s crime profile usually includes:
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Anti-social behaviour
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Vehicle crime
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Criminal damage
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Shoplifting
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Occasional burglary
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Night-time incidents around Mutley Plain and the Barbican
Violent crime exists but is much lower than in major cities like London, Birmingham, or Manchester. The city remains generally safe for students, professionals, and families.
Read also- Best Neighbourhoods to Live in London
Tips for Staying Safe When Renting in Plymouth
You can greatly improve your safety level by taking small, practical steps:
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Choose neighbourhoods with consistently lower crime rates
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Check if your building has CCTV and secure entry access
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Look for well-lit streets if you come home late
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Keep valuables out of sight in cars or windows
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Read recent neighbourhood reviews before renting
London Stays listings always help highlight areas suited for peaceful living, especially for newcomers.
Is Plymouth Safe for Students?
Yes. Plymouth hosts a large student population, mainly around:
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Mutley Plain
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Greenbank
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City Centre
These areas experience more night-time disturbances but remain manageable and safe with basic precautions.
If a student wants quieter housing, Plympton, Peverell, or Mannamead are excellent alternatives.
Is Plymouth Safe for Families?
Plymouth is considered a family-friendly city with:
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Good primary and secondary schools
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Parks and coastal areas
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Many quiet residential neighbourhoods
Most families prefer areas like Plympton, Peverell, Mannamead, or Elburton.
Conclusion
Overall, the Plymouth crime rate remains moderate, with excellent, calm neighbourhoods that are perfect for renting or relocating. The city centre and nightlife-heavy areas experience more incidents, but suburban districts offer stability, safety, and a relaxed lifestyle.
When browsing accommodation with London Stays, focus on reliable, well-reviewed areas such as Peverell, Plympton, Sutton Harbour, and Mannamead for the safest experience.
FAQs About Plymouth Crime Rate
Is Plymouth safe at night?
Yes, in most residential suburbs. The city centre and nightlife areas can get busy, so staying aware is recommended.
Which area of Plymouth has the highest crime rate?
Stonehouse historically records higher crime levels, mainly due to its central location.
What is the safest area in Plymouth?
Plympton, Peverell, and Mannamead consistently rank among the safest
