Top 15 Most Dangerous Areas in Scotland

Scotland is one of the countries in the UK that people wish to visit due to its diverse population, culture, vibrant lifestyle, dramatic landscapes, wildlife, amazing architecture, magnificent castles, and more. There are many working opportunities as well due to its diverse nature and friendly areas.

Despite having such amazing attributes and positive things, there are certain areas in which the crime rate is increasing by a huge margin. We all know that the UK is one of the countries in which people are migrating for working opportunities and the population is increasing day by day.

The Challenge of Rising Crime Rates

According to the World Meters, the UK’s population in 2024 was 69,138,192 and the number of net migrants was 417,114. Moreover, when talking about Scotland, the population in mid-2023 was 5,490,100 as per the National Records of Scotland. This is the all-time high recorded population in Scotland.

Due to the increase in the population of both the UK and Scotland, a high number of people are migrating to find working opportunities and to improve their standard of living. This increase in population is also causing a severe increase in crimes and other illegal activities.

In today’s article, we are going to talk about the crimes in Scotland and will share the top 15 most dangerous areas in Scotland where you shouldn’t move or migrate. Overall, Scotland is a great place to visit or live, but certain areas are facing increased crime rates and illegal activities.

So, before going into the deep and discussing the crime rates separately in each area, let’s take a look at the overall crime rate of Scotland and analyse what statistics tell us.

An Overview Of Crime In Scotland

As we have told you Scotland is mainly famous for its diverse culture and huge landscapes people love to visit. It also offers many picturesque views and sceneries where tourists visit and capture the wholesome moments with their loved ones.

When looking at the statistics published by the Scottish police, the overall crime rates have continuously decreased for the last 20 years due to improved security in Scotland. Moreover, Scottish people have played a huge role in decreasing these crime rates by ensuring their presence in the court and alerting the police on time during the criminal acts.

Year	Recorded Crimes	Crime Rate per 10,000 Population	Trend
2004/05	511,834	1,007	Peak (Highest Crime Year)(the year is also called the black year in Scottish history)
2022/23	289,362	528	43% Decline Since 2004/05

Now that you have witnessed the overall crime rates of Scotland, let’s take a closer look at the top 15 most dangerous areas in Scotland and once we do that, it will be on you to decide whether it is a wise decision to move there or not.

What are the Most Prominent Crimes in Scotland?

According to Statista, the following are the most common and prominent crimes reported in Scotland in 2023/24:

Sexual Crimes: 14,484
Crimes of Dishonesty: 111,054
Non-Sexual Crimes of Violence: 71,463
Crimes Against Society: 61,650
Damage and Reckless Behaviour: 41,129

Top 15 Most Dangerous Areas in Scotland

Now we have the overall view of crime statistics of Scotland, let’s break it down and see what the top 15 areas have the highest crime rates and which crimes are most common and prominent in those areas.

1- Glasgow City

Overall Crime Rate Of 1,251 Crimes Per 10,000 People

When talking about Glasgow, it is the largest city in Scotland and the 4th largest in the whole of the UK. It is famous and well-known for its music, world-class museums, galleries, architecture, food, drinks, filming sceneries, and more.

Despite having so many positive attributes, the crime rate in Glasgow is the highest in the whole of Scotland. The overall crime rate in Glasglow is 1,251 crimes per 10,000 population as per the most recent data shared by Scottish Police.

Most Prominent Crimes in Glasgow

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Glasgow:

Drug Offences: 5326 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 17,971 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 16,906 Incidents
Crimes Against Society: 12,196 Incidents

2- Dundee City

Overall Crime Rate Of 1,152 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Dundee is well known for its rich history of manufacturing textiles and is also known as the city of jute, Jam, and Journalism. There are many other things for which Dundee is famous for including research, design, football, RRS discovery, museums, and churches.

When talking about design, Dundee was the first UNESCO City of Design in 2014 and is also the home of the Museum of Design. Dundee City is in 2nd spot when discussing the crime rates and other illegal activities. The overall crime rate in the city is 1,152 crimes per 10,000 population increasing the concerns for safety and security of the residents.

Most Prominent Crimes in Dundee City

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Dundee City:

Motor Vehicle Theft: 315 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 5,383 Incidents
Violent Crime: 2,853 Incidents
Shoplifting: 1,668 Incidents

3- West Dunbartonshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 1,100 Crimes Per 10,000 People

West Dunbartonshire has a lot of local attractions and the people there are very hospitable and welcoming. The top attractions of West Dunbartonshire are the Auchentoshan Distillery & Visitors Centre, Balloch Castle, Country Park, BBC Scotland, Dumbarton Studios, Cameron House, Clyde Shopping Centre, Clydebank Museum, and many more.

When talking about the crime rate of West Dunbartonshire, it is increasing gradually which is destroying its welcoming and touristic reputation. The overall crime rate of the area is 1100 Crimes Per 10,000 population.

Most Prominent Crimes in West Dunbartonshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in West Dunbartonshire:

Crimes against Society: 1,386 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 3,070 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 1,488 Incidents

4- Dumfries & Galloway

Overall Crime Rate Of 1,093 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Dumfries & Galloway is famous for its natural beauty, diversified culture, and historic sites. When talking about the natural beauty of the area; Grey Mare’s Tail and Logan Botanic Garden are the places you should explore to spend some really peaceful time with yourself.

Despite having some of the most beautiful places and landmarks, the crime rate here is destroying its amazing reputation across the globe. The overall crime rate here is 1,093 Crimes Per 10,000 population. Local authorities and police are working hard to create security policies and implement them to ensure the safety and protection of everyone.

Most Prominent Crimes in Dumfries & Galloway

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Dumfries & Galloway:

Crimes Against Society: 2,049 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 6,165 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 2,114 Incidents

5- Aberdeen City

Overall Crime Rate Of 945 Crimes Per 10,000 People

The top attraction that grabs the instant attention of tourists is the amazingly built granite structures in Aberdeen City. The city is also famous for its maritime history and cultural attractions. When discussing the cultural attractions, you can visit Aberdeen Art Gallery, Gordon Highlanders Museum, Duthie Park, and more.

The crime rate in Aberdeen City is one of the worst making it among the top 5 most dangerous areas in Scotland. The overall crime rate here is 945 Crimes Per 10,000 population.

Most Prominent Crimes in Aberdeen City

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Aberdeen City:

Public Urination: 177 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 5449 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 4162 Incidents
Violent Crime: 3608 Incidents

6- North Lanarkshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 898 Crimes Per 10,000 People

North Lanarkshire is famous for its historical industrial heritage and agriculture. Most of the people here are linked with jobs in agriculture including pig farming, poultry farming, and agricultural crops. When talking about the industrial heritage, there are different types of industries in the city including the steel industry and coal mining.

North Lanarkshire offers great working opportunities to migrants which results in increased population and criminal activities. The overall crime rate of North Lanarkshire is 898 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in North Lanarkshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in North Lanarkshire:

Road Traffic Offences: 6,977 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 5,790 Incidents
Crimes Against Society: 4,751 Incidents
Weapon Possession: 484 Incidents
Drugs Possession: 1,750 Incidents

7- City of Edinburgh

Overall Crime Rate Of 877 Crimes Per 10,000 People

The City of Edinburgh is well known for its vibrant lifestyle, cultural festivals, and agriculture. The top attractions of the City of Edinburgh are Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, The Royal Mile, The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, The Real Mary King’s Close, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and many more.

Despite having such amazing and beautiful attractions, the crime rate in the city is one of the worst in the whole of Scotland. The overall crime rate here is 877 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in the City of Edinburgh

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in the City of Edinburgh:

Thefts from a Motor Vehicle: 525 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 14,623 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 9,091 Incidents
Burglaries: 1,449 Incidents

8- Fife

Overall Crime Rate Of 835 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Fife is also called the “Home of Golf” because of St Andrews which is one of the most famous and favourite golf courses for golf players around the world. Fife also has coastal beauty and history which is very close to the hearts of many.

Despite these positive factors, the crime rate here is increasing and the area is on the list of the top 10 most dangerous areas in Scotland. When talking about the overall crime rate of Fife, it has 835 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in the Fife

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in the Fife:

Sexual Crimes: 1,418 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 8,030 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 6,417 Incidents
Violent Crime: 5,223 Incidents

9- North Ayrshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 833 Crimes Per 10,000 People

North Ayrshire is mainly famous for its beautiful coastal areas and towns that attract a lot of tourists and visitors to the city. Many other things including Maritime history, Eglinton Country Park, and Wildlife spotting make North Ayrshire one of the best cities in Scotland.

But in recent times, the crime rate here started to increase and now the city is on the list of the top 15 most dangerous areas in Scotland. The overall crime rate of the area is 833 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in North Ayrshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in North Ayrshire:

Road Traffic Offences: 2,684 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 2,294 Incidents
Driving Under the Influence: 220 Incidents

10- East Ayrshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 816 Crimes Per 10,000 People

East Ayrshire is known as the birthplace of Johnnie Walker Whisky which is the favourite brand of most Europeans. There are many other places that make East Ayrshire famous including Historic Castles, Battle of Loudoun Hill, and Sir Alexander Fleming.

The overall crime rate in East Ayrshire is almost the same as the previous year which was 816 Crimes Per 10,000 Population. This crime rate shows that there is a serious need for improved security policies and implementation of law.

Most Prominent Crimes in East Ayrshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in East Ayrshire:

Violent Crime: 1,524 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 2,256 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 1,930 Incidents

11- Highland

Overall Crime Rate Of 813 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Highland is one of the cities which is filled with natural beauty and has mountains that are covered with green grass and provide lush green meadows for the sake of trekking. Most trekkers call this place heaven for trekkers and hikers. Moreover, when talking about the world-famous castles, Highland has Eilean Donan Castle, Dunrobin Castle & Gardens, and Urquhart Castle.

Highland also has some top attractions including Glenfinnan Viaduct, Isle of Skye, and Inverness. Despite these positive factors, the crime rate here is dangerous and needs some serious attention. The overall crime rate of the area is 813 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in Highland

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Highland:

Crimes Against Society: 2,259 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 7,286 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 2,982 Incidents
Violent Crime: 2,536 Incidents

12- Renfrewshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 806 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Renfrewshire is well known for its “Paisley Pattern” which is a unique pattern you can only witness in this region. There are some other attributes that make Renfrewshire famous including its textile legacy, iconic designs, and cultural significance.

When talking about the overall crime rate of Renfrewshire it is a new entry in the list and the crime rate here increased suddenly. The overall crime rate here is 806 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in Renfrewshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Renfrewshire:

Environmental Offences: 44 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 3,360 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 3,301 Incidents
Crimes Against Society: 2,120 Incidents

13- Clackmannanshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 799 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Clackmannanshire is the smallest county in Scotland and being the smallest is also one of the reasons for its famousness. There are some other factors as well that make the county well known including its Industrial past, Alloa Tower, and Menstrie Castle.

When discussing the crime rate of Clackmannanshire, the overall crime rate here is 799 Crimes Per 10,000 Population. As we have discussed the county is the smallest in Scotland, so the high crime rate creates troubles for both residents and visitors alike.

Most Prominent Crimes in Clackmannanshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Clackmannanshire:

Violent Crime: 696 Incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 894 Incidents
Road Traffic Offences: 763 Incidents

14- South Ayrshire

Overall Crime Rate Of 776 Crimes Per 10,000 People

South Ayrshire is one of the cities famous for its scenic coastal lines, aerospace engineering, food process, and more. The city is also called the birthplace of Robert Burns. When talking about its castles, there are two famous castles; Culzean Castle and Dunure Castle.

South Ayrshire is also a new entry on the list and the situation is becoming worse day by day here. The overall crime rate here is 776 Crimes Per 10,000 Population.

Most Prominent Crimes in South Ayrshire

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in South Ayrshire:

Shoplifting: 931 incidents
Crimes of dishonesty: 2,053 incidents
Vehicle offences: 1,965 incidents

15- Inverclyde

Overall Crime Rate Of 768 Crimes Per 10,000 People

Now lastly, let’s talk about Inverclyde which is a famous city in Scotland. Inverclyde is well known for its rich history in shipbuilding and sea-related farming. Some other positive attributes related to the Inverclyde are Greenock, Greenock Cut, and Ardgowan House.

When talking about the crime rates of the area, the overall crime rate here is 768 Crimes Per 10,000 Population making it the 15th most dangerous area in Scotland that needs serious security measures and protection from the criminals.

Most Prominent Crimes in Inverclyde

Here is the list of the most common and prominent crimes in Inverclyde:

Road Traffic Offences: 920 incidents
Crimes Against Society: 1,352 incidents
Crimes of Dishonesty: 1,326 incidents

How Have Guard Mark Security Sourced This Data?

At Guard Mark Security, we have been sharing the crime statistics of different regions of the UK with you so you can make a decision about moving there. Our number one priority here is to provide you with the data that is only published on trusted and legitimate platforms. For this article, we have gathered and analysed all the data from the Scottish Police data repository.

Tips to Ensure Your Security in Scotland

Do not walk alone at night.
Make sure to install CCTV alarms and motion sensors in both residential and commercial properties.
Make sure to lock your garages.
If you are a business owner, hire a security guard for nonworking hours.
Do not leave your house for a longer time.
Stay updated with your surroundings and what’s going on in your city.

Hire the Best Security Guards in Scotland

If you are a business owner looking for the best security guarding services in Scotland, you are in the perfect place. At Guard Mark Security, we have been offering security guarding services for more than a decade in the UK and have helped multiple businesses protect their premises.

Moreover, if you are a homeowner looking to install CCTV cameras, alarms, or motion sensors in your house, we can help you by installing our state-of-the-art CCTV cameras and highly advanced alarms that you can connect to your phone as well.