Safety’s one of those things you might not think about—until it really matters. Whether you’re choosing a new place to live, heading off to uni, or planning a weekend break, knowing which places are safer than others can make a big difference.
In this guide, you’ll find a breakdown of the safest cities in Britain—based on real data, not just reputation. We’ll also unpack what actually makes a city feel safe, and share a few tips to help you stay secure no matter where you are.
Top 10 Safest Cities in Britain
To give you a clear picture of which cities are truly the safest in Britain, we combined Numbeo’s 2025 Safety Index—a crowd-sourced measure of how secure residents feel—with the latest recorded-crime tables from the Office for National Statistics (England & Wales) and the Scottish Government (for Aberdeen and Edinburgh).
The Safety Index gives you an at-a-glance sense of perceived safety (a higher score means people feel safer), while the ONS figures tell you how many offences were actually logged per 1,000 residents as of 2023-2024.
1. York – A Historic City That Feels Safe Today
York tops the list for good reason. With a Safety Index of 73.3, it’s the highest-rated city in Britain for how safe locals feel. The crime rate of 96 per 1,000 is well below average for a city of its size.
York’s compact layout, visible police presence and strong community ties all contribute to a sense of everyday security—whether you’re walking through the Shambles or cycling by the old city walls.
2. Edinburgh – Low Crime in a Capital Full of Culture
Edinburgh scores 68.9 on the Safety Index and records just 44.8 crimes per 1,000 people—one of the lowest rates in the country. Even with its huge annual festivals and busy tourism scene, the city manages safety well.
Neighbourhoods like Marchmont and Stockbridge are known for being peaceful, and the city centre benefits from strong policing and widespread CCTV. It’s a calm capital with a lot to offer.
3. Aberdeen – Big Industry, Low Risk
Aberdeen may be known for its oil and energy links, but it’s also one of the safest big cities in Britain. Locals rate it at 63.2 on the Safety Index, and crime sits at 65.1 per 1,000 people, which is lower than the Scottish average. Its tidy streets, active community groups and relatively compact layout help people feel at ease—day or night.
4. Brighton & Hove – Buzzing but Well Managed
Brighton & Hove has a well-earned reputation for its festivals and nightlife, but it still feels safe. The city’s Safety Index is 60.9, and the recorded crime rate is 109 per 1,000, with most incidents related to petty theft or busy tourist areas.
Local efforts like street marshals, strong licensing laws, and public safety teams help maintain a secure atmosphere, especially in popular areas like the Lanes and the seafront.
5. Cardiff – Busy Capital with a Strong Safety Net
Wales’s capital city comes in at number five, with a Safety Index of 60.3 and a crime rate of 118 per 1,000. As a hub for sport, politics, and culture, Cardiff does see spikes around big events, but it also has excellent coverage when it comes to policing and public safety.
Neighbourhoods like Pontcanna and Roath enjoy relatively low crime levels, and the city centre is well monitored, even during busy nights.
6. Plymouth – A Seaside City with Quiet Streets
Plymouth may not always make headlines, but when it comes to safety, it’s quietly doing a lot right. Residents give it a solid Safety Index of 59, and the recorded crime rate is just 49 per 1,000 people—one of the lowest among England’s larger cities.
The city’s walkable waterfront, community policing hubs, and regeneration projects around the Barbican have created a secure, open environment where locals tend to feel at ease, whether commuting or heading out in the evenings.
7. Bristol – Buzzing and Balanced
Bristol combines creativity, student life and nightlife with a measured approach to city safety. It holds a Safety Index of 57.4, with a recorded crime rate of 118 per 1,000.
While areas like Stokes Croft and the harbourside see higher activity—especially after dark—the city’s use of street marshals, public space CCTV, and community engagement has helped keep crime levels in check. More residential areas like Redland and Bishopston also offer quieter alternatives to the city centre’s buzz.
8. Glasgow – Scotland’s Largest City with Steady Progress
Glasgow has made major strides in public safety over the past decade. With a Safety Index of 54.4, it stands out as Scotland’s safest large city after Edinburgh.
The city recorded 83 crimes per 1,000 people—a big improvement from earlier years. High-visibility patrols around shopping areas like Buchanan Street, along with community-led initiatives and long-term violence reduction strategies, have helped rebuild the city’s image as not just lively, but increasingly secure.
9. Liverpool – A Lively Port with a Watchful Eye
Liverpool has one of the most active nightlife scenes in Britain, and that’s reflected in the numbers. The Safety Index sits at 50.9, with a higher crime rate of 135 per 1,000 people.
That said, the city has also invested in smart solutions to manage its busy streets. Visitor-friendly areas like the Baltic Triangle and city centre benefit from patrols through the Business Improvement District (BID), while regeneration efforts continue to improve the environment for both locals and tourists.
10. Nottingham – Well-Policed and Walkable
Nottingham rounds out the top ten with a Safety Index of 49.3 and a crime rate of 117 per 1,000. While not the lowest, the numbers reflect a city that handles student life and weekend crowds with a clear safety strategy.
Hotspots like Old Market Square and the Lace Market are closely monitored, and the city’s night-time economy policy—focusing on lighting, late-night transport and targeted policing—has made a visible difference in how safe people feel, especially after dark.
Britain’s Top 10 Safest Cities (2025): At a Glance
|
Rank |
City |
Safety Index (Numbeo) |
Recorded Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
Fastest-Rising Crime Type |
|
1 |
York |
73.3 |
96.9 |
Shoplifting – 40% rise in arrests |
|
2 |
Edinburgh |
68.9 |
44.8 |
Bicycle theft – up nearly 20% |
|
3 |
Aberdeen |
63.2 |
65.1 |
Vehicle theft – largest year-on-year rise |
|
4 |
Brighton & Hove |
60.9 |
109.4 |
Robbery – up 29% |
|
5 |
Cardiff |
60.3 |
118.2 |
Violence & sexual offences – up 8% |
|
6 |
Plymouth |
59.0 |
49.0 |
Violent offences – up 59% |
|
7 |
Bristol |
57.4 |
118.0 |
Violent offences – up 17% |
|
8 |
Glasgow |
54.4 |
83.0 |
Knife crime & robbery – robbery up 18% |
|
9 |
Liverpool |
50.9 |
135.0 |
Shoplifting – up 10.6% |
|
10 |
Nottingham |
49.3 |
117.0 |
Shoplifting & retail violence |
Factors Contributing to City Safety
What makes a city feel—and actually be—safe? While crime rates are the most visible metric, city safety is shaped by a broader mix of design, policy, community, and access to services. Here’s a look at the main factors that consistently influence how safe a city is to live in.
Urban Design and Infrastructure
The way a city is laid out plays a major role in how secure it feels. Well-lit streets, clear lines of sight, and thoughtful public spaces make a real difference. When areas are clean, well-maintained, and easy to navigate, it can discourage crime and encourage people to be out and about, which in itself increases safety. Features like cul-de-sacs, traffic-calming zones, and visible signage all contribute to a safer urban environment.
Strong Community Connections
Cities where people know their neighbours tend to be safer. When communities are active and connected, residents are more likely to look out for each other and take ownership of their local spaces. Community events, neighbourhood groups, and local initiatives all help build trust and encourage cooperation, both of which are powerful crime deterrents.
Effective and Fair Policing
Good policing isn’t just about response times; it’s also about presence, relationships, and trust. Cities with community-based policing models, where officers engage regularly with residents, often see better outcomes.
When people feel heard and treated fairly by law enforcement, they’re more likely to report issues and work with authorities to resolve them. Clear policies, transparency, and equal access to justice are essential here.
Access to Services and Opportunities
Safety improves when people have what they need to thrive. That includes access to good schools, healthcare, secure housing, and stable jobs. Cities that invest in services, especially in underserved areas, tend to see long-term benefits in safety and well-being. Public transport, social support, and inclusive economic opportunities all help address the root causes of crime.
Environmental Safety and Emergency Readiness
A truly safe city also prepares for the unexpected. Cities that plan ahead for natural disasters, invest in resilient infrastructure, and have strong emergency response systems are better able to protect their residents. Preparedness for floods, extreme weather, or environmental hazards isn’t just good planning; it’s part of everyday safety.
How to Stay Safe with the Right Tools
Even in the safest cities, staying secure comes down to being prepared and aware. With the right tools, from practical habits to smart technology, you can reduce risks and feel more in control of your surroundings.
Stay Informed with Apps and Alerts
Safety-focused apps can be helpful for daily routines and emergencies. Many let you share your live location, notify trusted contacts, or call for help with one tap (e.g. 999 call shortcuts). For local awareness, services like Police.uk and neighbourhood alert systems provide updates on nearby incidents, helping you avoid trouble before it starts.
Install Security Camerasto Protect Your Property
Security cameras remain one of the most effective ways to protect your property. Whether it’s a full CCTV setup or a standalone outdoor camera, the presence of a visible lens alone can deter theft, trespassing, and vandalism.
Modern systems often include motion detection, clear night vision, and remote viewing via smartphone, so you can check in anytime, from anywhere.
Know Who’s There with a Video Doorbell
Video doorbells are increasingly popular, and for good reason. These smart devices let you see who’s at your door and speak to them in real-time, even if you’re not home. They’re especially useful for preventing parcel theft and identifying unknown visitors, which are common concerns in city living.
Most models connect to your phone and record short clips when someone approaches your door, offering a simple way to keep track of who’s coming and going.
Add Alarm Systems
Today’s alarm systems are more flexible and user-friendly than ever. Many are wireless and app-connected, meaning you can arm, disarm, and monitor them from your phone. They often come with door and window sensors, motion detectors, and loud sirens to alert you (and your neighbours) if anything’s triggered.
Practise Everyday Awareness
Simple habits go a long way. Stick to well-lit routes, avoid distractions like loud headphones in unfamiliar areas, and keep personal items secure in public. If you’re out late, plan how you’ll get home safely, whether it’s using trusted taxi ranks, public transport, or walking with friends.
Conclusion
Feeling safe where you live or travel is a necessity. By recognising the safest cities in Britain, you’re better equipped to make informed decisions for yourself and your family. While city rankings give us a helpful overview, your own safety also depends on awareness, tools, and habits. Whether you’re in a bustling metropolis or a quiet town, taking the right precautions and staying prepared will go a long way in keeping you secure.
FAQ
Which city in the UK is the safest?
Safety in the UK varies, but smaller cities and rural communities typically top the list—with places like Edinburgh, York, and Bath regularly featuring among the lowest-crime urban areas due to strong community policing and well-lit streets.
Which city is best to live in the UK?
“Best” really depends on what you’re looking for. London leads for career opportunity and global culture, while cities like Edinburgh, Bristol, Manchester, and Cambridge score highly for quality of life, low crime rates, green space, and community feel. Meanwhile, market towns like Saffron Walden and Chelmsford topped The Sunday Times list as the UK’s top places to live in 2025 for their strong schools, vibrant high streets, and excellent transport links.
Which city has the lowest crime rate?
Among cities, Edinburgh, Brighton, and Aberdeen routinely feature among the lowest for crime, with around 60 crimes per 1,000 people. If you’re comfortable with smaller places, remote regions such as the Shetland and Orkney Islands, the Highlands, Powys, and North Yorkshire often have the lowest crime statistics anywhere in the UK—ranging from roughly 20 to 50 crimes per 1,000 people.
Where is the safest and cheapest place to live in the UK?
If you want both low crime and lower living costs, many rural counties and smaller towns are great options. North Yorkshire, Powys, Devon, and Cornwall not only have crime rates below the national average but also more affordable home prices and rents. Town options include Durham, Lancaster, Newcastle, and Bournemouth, which offer reasonable rents (e.g., around £650/month in Durham), solid community vibes, and decent amenities.
