If you plan to move to Nottingham or study there, you might wonder, is Nottingham safe?
Nottingham is the centre of the East Midlands, known for its rich history, two well-known universities, and lively nightlife. Like many large cities, the area also faces some crime and safety challenges.
We’ll walk you through the latest crime figures, explore which neighbourhoods are safer or more at risk, and share practical tips to help you stay protected and confident while enjoying life in Nottingham. Let's begin!
Is Nottingham Safe? Current Crime & Safety Trends
Recent data shows that the crime rate in Nottingham UK in 2025 is about 97 crimes per 1,000 residents, with a safety index score of 56, which is below the national average.
Although these numbers might seem worrying, the overall safety in Nottingham has been improving over the past few years. The city’s crime risk score has dropped steadily, showing that Nottingham is becoming a safer place to live and study.
As with most large cities, safety levels vary by area. The city centre and a few nearby districts report more incidents, while suburban neighbourhoods tend to be calmer and safer. Many residents now use home security systems and cameras, especially in higher-risk areas, to add an extra layer of protection.
Common Types of Crimes in Nottingham
Nottingham has a mix of different crimes across the city and student areas. Knowing which ones happen most often helps people stay alert and keep themselves safe.
- Violence and Sexual Offences: This is the most common crime in Nottingham. In 2024, there were around 14,800 cases, or about 41 for every 1,000 people. These offences make up a large part of the city’s total crime numbers.
- Anti-Social Behaviour: This includes things like loud noise, arguments in public, and rude or threatening behaviour. It might not sound serious, but it can still make people feel unsafe or uncomfortable in their own area.
- Shoplifting: Shoplifting happens often in busy shopping streets and centres. In 2024, there were about 5,500 reports, equal to 15 crimes for every 1,000 residents.
- Property Crime: Crimes such as burglary, car theft, and damage to homes fall under this group. Student neighbourhoods are hit harder because they often have shared houses full of valuable items and less strict security.
Many of Nottingham’s most common crimes, such as theft and property damage, often affect local shops and small businesses. To reduce these risks, many owners are upgrading to smart security systems that provide better protection and visibility.
The eufy NVR CCTV System S4 Max is one example, featuring PoE (Power over Ethernet) for stable connections, AI motion detection for accurate alerts, and high-definition multi-camera recording to keep every part of a business secure.
Safest Areas in Nottingham
If you’re planning to live in Nottingham or already do, it helps to know which parts of the city are safer. Based on the latest crime data, these areas are seen as some of the most secure and peaceful places to live.
- Wollaton West: With approximately 65 crimes per 1,000 residents, this area is known for its peaceful environment and excellent community atmosphere. Large green spaces make it suitable for family living.
- Nuthall East & Strelley: With approximately 49 crimes per 1,000 residents, this is one of Nottingham's safest areas. Community engagement here is high, with harmonious neighbourly relations jointly maintaining a secure living environment.
- Clifton West: With approximately 94 crimes per 1,000 residents, whileslightly higher than the above two areas, it remains well below Nottingham's average. Clifton West offers diverse amenities and excellent transport connections.
- Beeston: Whilenot part of Nottingham's city centre, Beeston is also a relatively safe area. Located near the university, it boasts an active student community and good facilities.
Most Dangerous Areas in Nottingham
Knowing which parts of Nottingham have higher crime rates is just as important as knowing where the safer areas are. The following are considered the least safe areas:
- Castle: With about 150 crimes per 1,000 residents, this busy city centre area sees more offences due to its shops, bars, and nightlife. The good news is that police patrols are frequent, helping to keep things under control.
- Anne’s: This area reports around 156 crimes per 1,000 people, one of the highest rates in Nottingham. St. Anne’s has faced issues with gang activity in the past, and although things have improved, residents are still advised to stay cautious.
- Hyson Green & Arboretum: With around 139 crimes per 1,000 residents, this part of Nottingham faces challenges linked to its high population and mixed income levels. However, local community projects have helped to reduce problems and improve safety.
- The Meadows: This neighbourhood has some safety concerns at night, though it’s generally calm during the day and is home to many families.
In these high-risk areas, many businesses and communities have invested in advanced security solutions, such as PoE Cameras, for extra protection. These cameras are easy to install, offer clear day-and-night footage, and help residents keep watch over their property with confidence.
Practical Safety Tips for Nottingham Residents & Visitors
Here are some practical safety tips for Nottingham residents, visitors, and students, simple, effective, and easy to remember:
- Stay alert in busy areas. Keep your phone and valuables secure, especially in crowded streets, shopping zones, or on public transport.
- Use well-lit routes at night. Stick to main roads and avoid shortcuts through alleys, parks, or quiet areas after dark.
- Choose licensed transport. Always book a registered taxi or use reputable ride-share apps instead of unmarked cars.
- Plan nights out safely. Go out with friends, look out for each other, and arrange a safe route home before you leave.
- Protect your bike and belongings. Use strong locks, register valuable items, and never leave bags or laptops unattended. For students or renters, setting up smart home monitoring can add peace of mind. The eufy Indoor Cam S350 provides 4K resolution, AI tracking, and a 360° pan-tilt range, so you can check every corner remotely and stay confident your space is secure.
- Know your local contacts. Save emergency numbers, local police, and campus security details in your phone.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels off, a route, a person, or a situation, move to a safer place or seek help immediately.
- Secure your home. Lock every door and window, keep a light on when you’re away, and avoid posting your address online. For stronger protection, try a smart lock, which lets you check activity around your door anytime.
The Video Doorbell E340 is a great option. It has dual 2K HDR cameras, colour night vision, and package detection, so you can clearly see who’s outside and keep track of deliveries even when you’re not home.
For wider outdoor coverage, think about installing a camera like the eufyCam S4. It helps you monitor driveways, gardens, and shared student housing areas, giving clear 4K views and full 360° protection day and night.
Conclusion
So, is Nottingham safe? Statistics show that Nottingham’s crime rate is higher than in many other UK cities, but safety has been steadily improving in recent years. As with any large city, Nottingham has some areas that are safer and others that require more care.
For those who want extra protection, eufy security systems offer real-time monitoring, remote viewing, and instant alerts, helping to keep homes secure and strengthen community safety across Nottingham.
FAQs
Is Nottingham safe for a night out?
Nottingham can be safe for a night out, but it depends on where you go and how you act. The city centre and main streets are usually well-lit and have regular police patrols, making them fairly safe for late-night activities.
Some places, such as St. Anne’s, The Meadows, and quiet parts of Radford, are best avoided after dark if possible.
To stay safe at night, stick with friends, avoid dark or empty areas, use trusted transport, and stay aware of what’s happening around you.
Is Nottingham a good place to live?
Yes, despite some safety concerns, Nottingham is widely seen as a good place to live. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, great universities, easy public transport, and affordable living costs compared to many other UK cities.
It’s also known for its green spaces, including the well-loved Wollaton Park, where residents can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. Housing choices range from modern city-centre apartments to larger suburban homes, giving plenty of options for different lifestyles and budgets.
Is Nottingham security a concern?
Security can be a concern in Nottingham, as the crime rate is higher than the national average. However, the situation needs to be viewed in context.
Most crimes happen in specific areas or at certain times, and many residents and visitors don’t experience safety issues directly. Over the past few years, crime risk scores have dropped steadily, showing that the city’s overall safety continues to improve.
