If you are planning to move to Preston, study at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), or simply visit, one of the first questions you might ask is: what do Preston crime statistics actually say about safety?
Like many medium-sized cities in the UK, Preston has areas of regeneration and student growth alongside neighbourhoods that struggle with higher crime rates. By looking at official Lancashire Constabulary data and real-life examples, this article explores whether Preston is safe and what residents and visitors should know.
Preston Crime Statistics at a Glance
According to the most recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Lancashire Constabulary:
- The crime rate in Preston is higher than the Lancashire average.
- The most common reported offences include anti-social behaviour, violence against the person, and theft.
- Certain wards, such as St Matthew’s, Deepdale, and Fishwick, record higher-than-average incidents.
- Suburban areas like Fulwood or Ashton-on-Ribble generally see lower crime rates.
In 2024, Preston recorded over 130 crimes per 1,000 people, compared with around 90 per 1,000 across Lancashire as a whole.
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Most Common Types of Crime in Preston
Breaking down Preston’s crime statistics highlights the following key categories:
- Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) – This remains the most reported issue, covering neighbour disputes, street drinking, and vandalism.
- Violent Crime – Incidents range from common assault to more serious offences. These figures are higher in central wards but lower in residential suburbs.
- Theft and Burglary – Shoplifting, bike theft, and domestic burglaries remain concerns in parts of the city.
- Drug Offences – As a university city, drugs play a role in Preston’s crime profile, with arrests more frequent in student-heavy areas.
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How Safe Is Preston Compared with Other Cities?
When people ask about Preston crime statistics, they often want comparisons. Here’s how Preston stacks up:
- Higher than national average: Preston’s crime rate is above the England and Wales average, particularly for violent offences.
- Comparable to similar-sized cities: Compared with places such as Blackburn and Bolton, Preston’s crime rates are similar, with peaks in inner-city wards.
- Safer suburbs: Neighbourhoods on the outskirts of Preston report crime rates more in line with the national average, making them popular with families.
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Safety for Students in Preston
With more than 30,000 students enrolled at UCLan, Preston has a large student community. Understandably, many students and parents worry about safety.
- Student-heavy areas such as Moor Park, Adelphi, and St George’s see higher reports of anti-social behaviour and theft.
- The city centre can be lively at night, with alcohol-related incidents common around pubs and clubs.
- UCLan works closely with Lancashire Constabulary to promote safety through initiatives like the Campus Watch scheme.
For students, Preston is generally safe with the usual precautions: sticking to well-lit areas, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding risky situations at night.
Examples of Regeneration in Preston
Crime statistics only tell one side of the story. Preston is also undergoing significant regeneration:
- The Preston City Centre Regeneration Framework has seen investment in retail, housing, and public spaces.
- Areas like Winckley Square have been restored, providing a more welcoming environment.
- Community programmes target youth engagement, aiming to reduce crime involvement.
These projects play a role in tackling the root causes of crime, particularly around deprivation.
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Living in Preston: Resident Perspectives
Numbers matter, but so do lived experiences. Residents often highlight:
- Diverse neighbourhoods: From multicultural Deepdale to leafy Fulwood.
- Active community groups: Neighbourhood watch and residents’ associations work with police to improve safety.
- Mixed picture: While some streets experience regular issues, others report feeling safe and quiet.
As one Preston local described it: “Yes, crime exists, but most of it is concentrated in certain areas. Away from those hotspots, Preston is a friendly, liveable city.”
Conclusion
So, what do Preston crime statistics really reveal? They confirm that Preston has higher crime levels than some nearby towns, with anti-social behaviour and violent crime being the most common issues. However, crime is not spread evenly. City centre wards and more deprived areas see higher figures, while suburbs such as Fulwood are considered relatively safe.
For students, families, and visitors, Preston remains a welcoming and manageable city provided sensible safety precautions are taken.
In short: Preston is not crime-free, but nor is it inherently unsafe — the reality depends very much on where you are in the city.
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FAQs About Preston Crime Statistics
- Which areas of Preston have the highest crime rates?
St Matthew’s, Deepdale, and Fishwick wards consistently report higher crime figures. - Is Preston safe for students?
Yes. While incidents occur, UCLan and the police run safety programmes that make Preston manageable for students. - How does Preston compare with other Lancashire towns?
Preston has higher crime rates than many Lancashire towns but is similar to Blackburn and Bolton in terms of overall safety.
