Bradford is one the most famous cities in the whole of the UK and millions of visitors visit this city every year for the sake of vast sightseeing opportunities and business.

Another reason for the crowd in this city is “Leeds Bradford Airport”. This airport is one of the busiest in the UK, which increases tourism in this area.

But the crime rate in Bradford is also high, and everyone is talking about that. But in this blog, we are going to share some safest areas in Bradford where you can live or do business without any issues.

Safest Areas in Bradford, West Yorkshire

But before discussing those cities, let’s take a look at the overall crime rate in Bradford so we can know why everyone is talking about increased crime rates in Bradford.

Key Takeaways

  • Overall crime rate: 144.61 per 1,000 people, with over 46,000 incidents recorded.
  • Safest area: Wharfedale (41.4 crimes per 1,000) and 214 total criminal incidents in 2024.
  • Most common crime: Violence & sexual offences (even in safer areas)
  • Source: UK Police

What’s the Overall Crime Rate in Bradford?

Bradford is one of the most important cities in West Yorkshire and is famous for its Wool Industry, UNESCO City of Film, Brontë Sisters, Curry Capital, and Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.

It is also famous due to having one of the busiest airports in the UK which help people travel across the world. Despite having some of the most amazing attributes, the crime rate here has increased by a huge margin in past years.

When looking at the most recent and fresh batch of data, Bradford’s crime rate is 144.61 per 1,000 people, making it one of the most dangerous areas in West Yorkshire.

Moreover, the Bradford police have recorded almost 46,766 criminal incidents and offences in 2024, including theft, violence, sexual offences, robberies, shoplifting, and more.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Bradford?

Here are the statistics related to some of the most prominent and common crimes that happened in Bradford in 2024:

  • Anti-social behaviour: 4,259 Offences
  • Bicycle Theft: 209 Incidents
  • Burglary: 2,320 Incidents
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 4,077 Offences
  • Drugs: 1,793 Offences
  • Other Crime: 1,573 Incidents
  • Other Theft: 3,558 Incidents
  • Possession of Weapons: 435 Offences
  • Public Order: 4,419 Offences
  • Robbery: 578 Incidents
  • Shoplifting: 2,189 Incidents
  • Theft From the Person: 523 Incidents
  • Vehicle Crime: 2,690 Offences
  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 22,402 Incidents

When looking at the overall crime rate and the crimes by type, you might be wondering how this area can be safe. But here is the catch: there are some areas that are considered safe, and today we are going to tell you about that.

So, if you are also the one thinking about moving to Bradford but hesitant only because of the increasing crime rates, here is your opportunity. Read this blog carefully and choose the area wisely because, after all, it’s about your and your family’s safety.

Top 10 Safest Areas in Bradford

Here is the list of the top 10 safest areas in Bradford where you can move and live peacefully. But please remember that a small percentage of crime also exists in the below-listed areas as well. So make sure to take all the security measures no matter if you are living or doing business there.

1- Wharfedale

41.4 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 214 Total Criminal Incidents

Wharfedale is one of the well-known areas in Bradford, famous for Wharfedale Loudspeakers, The Landscape of Wharfedale, Burley in Wharfedale, and Wharfedale Brewery.

When talking about the overall crime rate of Wharfedale, it is 41.4 crimes per 1,000 people, which is considered low and the area is on the top in the list of safest areas in Bradford. Moreover, Wharfedale has faced almost 214 criminal and illegal incidents in 2024.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Wharfedale?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 18.1 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 3.98 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 3.9 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 3.51 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 3.32 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 2.49 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 2.19 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 1.17 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 1.16 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 0.512 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.329 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.25 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.248 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.248 Crimes Per 1,000 People

2- Craven

62.1 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 310 Total Criminal Incidents

Craven is one of the areas that is well known for its natural beauty and landscapes that attract millions of visitors every year. Bolton Abbey is one of the top tourist attractions there and people like to know more about its history and architecture.

When looking at the most recent batch of data, the overall crime rate in Craven is 62.1 crimes per 1,000 people which is also considered low, making it the 2nd safest place to live to do business in Bradford. Moreover, Craven has faced almost 310 criminal offences and incidents in 2024.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Craven?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 28 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 5.59 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 5.09 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 4.8 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 4.52 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 3.5 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 3.11 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 2.99 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 1.86 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.24 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.621 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.452 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.226 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.169 Crimes Per 1,000 People

3- Ilkley

65 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 914 Total Criminal Incidents

Ilkley in Bradford is mostly known and famous for its Ilkley Moor, Spa Town Heritage, Cultural Attractions, Outdoor Activities, and Historical significance.

When looking at the overall crime rate of Ilkley, it’s 65 crimes per 1,000 people making it the 3rd safest area in Bradford. Moreover, when looking at the population and overall crime rate of Ilkley, it seems like the area faced 914 criminal incidents and offences in 2024.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Ilkley?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 18.5 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 9.26 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 9.24 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 6.84 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 6.06 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 4.06 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 3.79 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 3.72 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.39 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 0.734 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.467 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.465 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.4 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.0666 Crimes Per 1,000 People

4- Worth Valley

65.2 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 329 Total Criminal Incidents

Worth Valley is one of the famous areas in Bradford, mostly known for the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, its filmy locations, and Brontë Country.

The overall crime rate in Worth Valley, according to the most recent and fresh batch of data, it is 65.2 crimes per 1,000 people, making it the 4th safest area in Bradford. As per the population and crime rate of Worth Valley, the residents have witnessed almost 329 criminal and illegal offences in 2024.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Worth Valley?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 24.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 8.28 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 6.36 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 5.8 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 4.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 4.61 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 3.95 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 2.89 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.74 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 1.33 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.279 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.211 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.206 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.0698 Crimes Per 1,000 People

5- Bingley

77 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 1,474 Total Criminal Incidents

bingley

Bingley is one of the famous areas in Bradford, known for its Bingley Five Rise Locks, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Bingley’s location, Historical Significance, and Bingley Music Live/Bingley Weekender.

When looking at the overall crime rate of Bingley, it’s 77 crimes per 1,000 people, making it the 5th safest area to live or to do business in Bradford in 2024. Moreover, the area has faced almost 1,474 criminal incidents and offences in 2024.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Bingley?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 34 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 9.85 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 6.96 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 5.12 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 4.65 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 4.33 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 3.82 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 3.5 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.66 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 1.4 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.734 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.554 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.322 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.169 Crimes Per 1,000 People

6- Baildon

79.6 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 1,266 Total Criminal Incidents

Baildon is one of the famous wards in Bradford, mostly famous for its Baildon Moor, Scenic Views, Walking Trails, Shipley Glen, Local Community and Events, Historical significance, and proximity to other attractions.

When discussing the overall crime rate in Baildon, it’s 79.6 crimes per 1,000 people, which is considered low. Also, the areas faced almost 1,266 criminal offences and incidents in a single year.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Baildon?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 34.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 9.08 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 6.75 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 6.65 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 4.76 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 4.54 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 4.5 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 3.58 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 1.93 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.85 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.56 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.257 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.248 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.222 Crimes Per 1,000 People

7- Queensbury

80.9 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 744 Total Criminal Incidents

Queensbury is particularly known for the Black Dyke Mills and Black Dyke Band, High Altitude and Views, Industrial History, and Queensbury Tunnel.

When talking about the overall crime rate in Queensbury, it’s 80.9 crimes per 1,000 people, and the area has faced almost 744 criminal incidents and offences, according to the most recent and fresh batch of data.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Queensbury?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 37.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 8.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 6.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 5.96 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 5.03 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 4.93 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 4.17 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 2.57 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 2.33 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.98 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.541 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.376 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.332 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.055 Crimes Per 1,000 People

8- Bingley Rural

81.2 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 1,532 Total Criminal Incidents

Bingley Rural is mostly known and famous for its Scenic Landscapes, Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Historical Features, Outdoor Activities, Bingley Five Rise Locks, and Proximity to other attractions.

When talking about the overall crime rate in Bingley Rural, it’s 81.2 crimes per 1,000 people, making it one of the safest areas in Bradford. Moreover, the total number of crimes that happened in this area is 1,532 offences and incidents.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Bingley Rural?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 35.9 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Public Order: 7.4 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 6.88 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Vehicle Crime: 6.54 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 6.47 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Burglary: 4.92 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Other Theft: 3.86 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Shoplifting: 3.56 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Other Crime: 3.3 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Drugs: 1.22 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.533 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Robbery: 0.315 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Theft from the Person: 0.248 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.0973 crimes per 1,000 people

9- Keighley East

96.6 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 1,653 Total Criminal Incidents

Keighley East is one of the famous areas in Bradford and is well known for its Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, Brontë Country, Cliffe Castle Museum and Park, Industrial Heritage, East Riddlesden Hall, and Beautiful Landscapes.

According to the most recent and fresh batch of data, the overall crime rate in Keighley East is 96.6 crimes per 1,000 people and the area has faced almost 1,653 criminal offences and incidents.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Keighley East?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 43.8 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Public Order: 9.45 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 8.38 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 7.93 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Other Theft: 6.99 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Vehicle Crime: 5.03 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Burglary: 4.61 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Shoplifting: 4.08 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Other Crime: 3.25 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Drugs: 1.36 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Theft from the Person: 0.565 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Robbery: 0.452 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.442 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.215 crimes per 1,000 people

10- Idle and Thackley

97.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People | 1,682 Total Criminal Incidents

Idle and Thackley in Bradford are famous for their Industrial Heritage, Historical Significance, Community and Local Character, Natural Surroundings, and Transportation history.

The overall crime rate in Idle and Thackley is 97.3 crimes per 1,000 people, and the area has faced almost 1,682 criminal incidents and offences in the past year.

What are the Most Common Crimes in Idle and Thackley?

  • Violence and Sexual Offences: 38.8 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Anti-Social Behaviour: 12.6 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Criminal Damage and Arson: 9.2 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Public Order: 6.99 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Burglary: 6.82 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Vehicle Crime: 6.32 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Theft: 5.4 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Shoplifting: 3.57 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Other Crime: 3.07 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Drugs: 1.96 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Robbery: 0.818 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Possession of Weapons: 0.816 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Bicycle Theft: 0.516 Crimes Per 1,000 People
  • Theft from the Person: 0.394 Crimes Per 1,000 People

How Have We Sourced This Data?

At Guard Mark Security, we always prioritise gathering data from trusted and authorised sources. For this article, we have gathered and analysed the data from the official UK police website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Which area in Bradford has the lowest crime rate?

    Wharfedale stands out as the area with the lowest crime rate in Bradford, with only 41.4 crimes per 1,000 people. When looking at the most recent batch of data, Wharfedale has faced just 214 criminal incidents in 2024, making it the top choice for anyone concerned about safety in Bradford. The area is not only safe but also famous for its landscape and Wharfedale Loudspeakers.

  2. Is Bradford safe for families with children?

    Bradford’s overall crime rate is 144.61 per 1,000 people, which is considered high. However, several areas like Wharfedale, Craven, and Ilkley offer much safer environments for families. These areas not only have significantly lower crime rates but also offer amazing attractions, natural beauty, and historical significance that make them ideal for family living despite the city’s overall statistics.

  3. What security measures should I take when living in Bradford?

    No matter which area you choose to live in Bradford, it’s crucial to take all security measures possible. This includes installing proper CCTV systems, alarm systems, security doors and windows, proper lighting, and joining neighbourhood watch programmes.
    Remember that even the safest areas in Bradford still face some criminal incidents, so being vigilant is necessary for your and your family’s safety.

  4. Are there any upcoming safety initiatives in Bradford for 2025?

    With Bradford being named the UK City of Culture 2025, the local authorities are implementing extensive safety measures across the city. This includes increased police presence, better surveillance systems, community safety programmes, and improved street lighting.
    These initiatives aim to ensure both residents and the millions of visitors expected during this cultural celebration can enjoy the city safely.

  5. How do Bradford’s safest areas compare to the national average for crime?

    Bradford’s safest areas such as Wharfedale (41.4 crimes per 1,000 people) and Craven (62.1 crimes per 1,000 people) have crime rates that are significantly lower than Bradford’s overall rate of 144.61.
    When looking at these statistics, these areas offer crime rates much closer to the national average, making them comparable to many other safe areas across the UK despite being in a city known for higher crime.

  6. What types of crimes are most common even in Bradford’s safest areas?

    When looking at the crime by type in the safest areas of Bradford, Violence and Sexual Offences remain the most common across all areas. For instance, even in Wharfedale, it’s 18.1 crimes per 1,000 people.
    Other common offences include public order incidents, anti-social behaviour, and criminal damage and arson, though at much lower rates than other parts of Bradford.

  7. Which areas in Bradford should be avoided due to high crime rates?

    While our blog focuses on the safest areas in Bradford, it’s worth noting that central Bradford, Bradford Moor, and Manningham have significantly higher crime rates than those listed in our top 10.
    When looking at the most recent batch of data, these areas have faced numerous criminal incidents and offences in 2024, making them less desirable for those prioritising safety.

  8. Is it safe to run a business in Bradford?

    Running a business in safer areas of Bradford like Wharfedale, Ilkley, and Bingley offers a much more secure environment compared to central areas. These locations have lower rates of shoplifting, burglary, and other business-related crimes.
    However, it’s still advisable to take all security measures and consider hiring professional security services like Guard Mark Security to ensure complete protection for your business.

  9. How reliable are the crime statistics mentioned in this article?

    At Guard Mark Security, we always prioritise gathering data from trusted and authorised sources. All the statistical data in this blog has been taken from the official UK police website (data.police.uk/data/) and represents the most recent and fresh batch of data available for 2024. This ensures that all information provided is accurate, reliable, and up-to-date for making informed decisions.

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Conclusion

Bradford is one of the most important cities in West Yorkshire, famous for its Wool Industry, status as UNESCO City of Film, the Brontë Sisters, Curry Capital, and as the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture. Despite these amazing attributes, the city faces significant security challenges with an overall crime rate of 144.61 per 1,000 people and 46,766 criminal incidents recorded in 2024.

However, our analysis reveals several safe havens within Bradford where residents and businesses can thrive without constant security concerns. Wharfedale emerges as the safest area with just 41.4 crimes per 1,000 people, followed by Craven, Ilkley, and Worth Valley, all maintaining crime rates well below the city’s average.

Whether you’re attracted by Bradford’s industrial heritage, cultural significance, or natural landscapes, knowing which areas offer better security can significantly enhance your living or business experience in this diverse city.

Remember that even in the safest areas, taking appropriate security measures remains essential, and professional security services like Guard Mark Security can provide additional peace of mind for both residential and commercial properties.