Feeling safe in our homes and communities is something we all value deeply. Whether it’s the sense of trust among neighbours, access to reliable schools, or nearby healthcare facilities, safety plays a crucial role in shaping our daily lives. At Guard Mark Security, we understand the importance of security and how it influences the well-being of individuals and communities.
With years of experience analysing crime data, we’ve published numerous pieces shedding light on the UK’s crime challenges. From identifying crime hotspots to exploring issues like gun violence, we aim to provide clear, data-driven insights.
In this latest blog, we’ll discuss the most recent statistics on homicide in the UK. It’s a sensitive subject that affects families and communities in profound ways. Let’s break down the numbers and explore what they reveal about safety across the country.
An In-Depth Look at UK Murder Statistics in 2024
Homicide is a harsh reality in the UK and often makes headlines for its devastating consequences. Recent statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) highlight the severity of the issue. Between July 2023 and June 2024, there were 562 recorded homicides in the UK. That’s an average of about 10 murders per week, translating to 9.3 murders per 1,000,000 population.
The data also reveals troubling trends. For example, knives or sharp instruments were involved in 44% of these cases, a 2% increase compared to last year. The remaining 56% includes assaults, firearms incidents, and deaths caused by dangerous driving. These figures highlight the persistent challenges posed by knife crime and broader concerns addressed by government and policing strategies.
On a positive note, the long-term trend shows improvement. Over the past two decades, the UK’s homicide rate has almost halved, dropping from 1,047 cases in 2003 to 562 in 2024. Even compared to last year, there’s been a 3% reduction in homicides (from 578 to 562).
Despite this progress, certain areas continue to stand out as trouble spots. Let’s take a closer look at these regions and the challenges they face.
The 25 Worst Areas for Homicide in the UK
Using the latest crime statistics, we’ve identified the 25 areas in the UK with the highest rates of homicide. This ranking considers both the number of homicides and the rate per 100,000 population, offering insight into the regions most affected by this grave issue.
1- Hartlepool
Topping the list is Hartlepool, a historic seaside town that recorded 4 homicides in 2024. With a rate of 6.4 homicides per 100,000 population, it holds the unfortunate title of the UK’s worst area for homicide, highlighting the serious safety concerns faced by its residents.
2- Inverclyde
Nestled along the River Clyde in Scotland, Inverclyde is a small area with significant challenges. The region reported 4 homicides in 2024, resulting in a rate of 5.1 homicides per 100,000 population, reflecting the struggles of its largest town, Greenock.
3- Blackpool
As one of England’s most famous seaside destinations, Blackpool holds a nostalgic appeal for many. However, with 4 homicides in 2024, the town’s homicide rate is 5 per 100,000 population, overshadowing its reputation as a holiday hotspot.
4- Shetland Islands
The remote and scenic Shetland Islands, with a small population of just over 23,000, experienced 1 homicide in 2024. This results in a rate of 4.3 homicides per 100,000 population, making the statistic particularly concerning for such a sparsely populated area.
5- Gloucester
Gloucester, a city renowned for its cathedral and historic charm, reported 2 homicides in 2024, leading to a rate of 3.7 homicides per 100,000 population. This figure highlights a sobering reality in an otherwise picturesque location.
6- Wolverhampton
In the West Midlands, Wolverhampton has undergone significant industrial transformation in recent years. However, the city’s homicide rate stands at 3.7 per 100,000 population, with 5 homicides reported in 2024, reflecting persistent safety challenges.
7- Lambeth
Lambeth, one of London’s largest and most iconic boroughs, recorded 7 homicides in 2024, equating to 3.2 homicides per 100,000 population. The area’s popularity and high footfall make these statistics particularly alarming.
8- Hounslow
Hounslow, a bustling London borough that includes areas like Brentford, saw 2 homicides in 2024, resulting in a rate of 3.1 homicides per 100,000 population. Despite its corporate appeal, these figures highlight underlying concerns about safety.
9- Bury
Part of Greater Manchester, Bury is known for its cultural and artistic scene. However, with 1 homicide in 2024 and a homicide rate of 3.1 per 100,000 population, the borough’s small size amplifies the seriousness of these numbers.
10- East Lindsey
Known for its coastal attractions and the popular town of Skegness, East Lindsey recorded 1 homicide in 2024, translating to 2.8 homicides per 100,000 population. This figure is particularly concerning given the area’s relatively small population.
11- Chelmsford
Chelmsford, a growing city in Essex, has seen significant renovation and development in recent years. Yet, the city recorded 2 homicides in 2024, resulting in a rate of 2.7 homicides per 100,000 population, showcasing ongoing security issues.
12- Renfrewshire
Situated in Scotland’s lowlands and home to the historic town of Paisley, Renfrewshire is known for its scenic beauty. However, with 5 homicides in 2024, the county faces a concerning homicide rate of 2.7 per 100,000 population
13- Hackney
Hackney, known for its blend of green spaces and urban living, holds a unique place in London’s boroughs. Despite its appeal, the area saw 1 homicide in 2024, with a homicide rate of 2.6 per 100,000 population, emphasising ongoing safety challenges.
14- Croydon
One of London’s key shopping and residential hubs, Croydon is known for its bustling retail sector. Unfortunately, safety remains a concern as the borough recorded 3 homicides in 2024, equating to a rate of 2.5 homicides per 100,000 population.
15- Crawley
Crawley, home to Gatwick Airport, has rapidly grown into a thriving residential area. Despite this development, the town saw 1 homicide in 2024, leading to a rate of 2.5 homicides per 100,000 population, raising concerns amidst its urban expansion.
16- North Kesteven
Known for its rural character and high happiness ratings, with 94% of its land covered in green spaces, North Kesteven offers a serene environment. Yet, the district reported 1 homicide in 2024, resulting in a homicide rate of 2.5 per 100,000 population.
17- Nottingham
Famous for its Robin Hood folklore and modern urban appeal, Nottingham offers a unique blend of history and contemporary living. However, the city recorded 6 homicides in 2024, with a rate of 2.4 homicides per 100,000 population, dampening its charm.
18- Calderdale
Located in the scenic Calder Valley in West Yorkshire, Calderdale features the bustling town of Halifax as its metropolitan centre. With a smaller population, even 1 homicide in 2024 leads to a homicide rate of 2.4 per 100,000 population, highlighting safety concerns in the area.
19- Haringey
Haringey, home to Tottenham Hotspur and the iconic Alexandra Palace, is known for its vibrant culture and sports scene. Yet, the borough’s safety is under scrutiny with 4 homicides in 2024, translating to 2.3 homicides per 100,000 population.
20- Coventry
Named the UK’s City of Culture in 2021, Coventry is a hub of history and cultural significance in the West Midlands. However, concerns about safety persist, as the city reported 2 homicides in 2024, resulting in a rate of 2.2 homicides per 100,000 population.
21- Nuneaton & Bedworth
The birthplace of renowned author George Eliot, Nuneaton and its neighbouring town Bedworth boast a rich literary heritage. Unfortunately, the area also contends with a homicide rate of 2.2 per 100,000 population, following 1 murder in 2024, highlighting concerns about local safety.
22- Luton
Known for its history of hat-making and its bustling airport, Luton is a thriving town that’s often mistaken for a city. However, with 4 murders in 2024, it carries a homicide rate of 2.2 per 100,000 population, a statistic more typical of larger urban areas.
23- Moray
Nestled on Scotland’s northern coast, Moray is known for its central town, Elgin, and its scenic beauty. Despite its charm, the area has faced challenges, with 2 homicides recorded in 2024 and a homicide rate of 2.1 per 100,000 population.
24- Leicester
Renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and sporting achievements, Leicester is one of England’s most iconic cities. Yet, its reputation is shadowed by safety concerns, with 4 homicides in 2024 resulting in a rate of 2.1 homicides per 100,000 population.
25- Lewisham
As a prominent educational hub in inner London, Lewisham is home to Blackheath and Goldsmiths, the University of London, making it a vital part of the city. However, its standing is marred by a concerning homicide rate, with 6 murders reported in 2024, translating to 2 homicides per 100,000 population.
How Has Guard Mark Security Sourced This Data?
At Guard Mark Security, we understand the sensitivity of discussing homicide rates across the UK. To ensure accuracy and transparency, we have relied on the latest data from trusted sources, including the Office of National Statistics for England and Wales and the Scottish Government Statistics Database.
We’ve presented the information by outlining both the number of homicides in each area and how those numbers relate to the local population. This approach provides a clearer understanding of the most dangerous areas and what these statistics might mean for residents and authorities alike.
It’s important to note that for areas with populations under 100,000; such as Hartlepool or the Shetland Islands, we’ve adjusted the data to represent the rate as if it applied to a standard population size. This methodology ensures consistency and helps highlight risks in smaller communities.
Additionally, we’ve chosen to report homicide data for London at the borough level, such as Lewisham and Haringey, rather than presenting it as a single figure for the entire city. Over the past year, the Metropolitan Police recorded 111 homicides in London, with an additional case reported by the City of London Police.
My Area Isn’t Listed Here, But I’m Concerned about Homicide
It is human nature to see our area or town in the headlights to analyze its performance. We have been discussing the top areas of homicide and your concern is legit. But if your location is not on the list, this means that you are not living in the worst places.
Here is a list of some of the most famous and popular areas of the UK with the number of homicides. If you can’t find the area in this list as well, congratulations, you are living in some of the safest and healthiest communities.
- 19 Homicides In 2024: 1.6 Homicides Per 100,000 People
- 0 Homicides In 2024: 0.6 Homicides Per 100,000 People
- 3 Homicides In 2024: 0.2 Homicides Per 100,000 People
Brighton
- 1 Homicide In 2024
Bristol
- 9 Homicides In 2024: 1.4 Homicides Per 100,000 People
- 5 Homicides In 2024: 1.1 Homicides Per 100
- 14 Homicides In 2024: .9 Homicides Per 100,000 People
- 10 Homicides In 2024: 0.8 Homicides Per 100,000 People
Plymouth
- 2 Homicides In 2024: 1.1 Homicides Per 100,000 People
- 12 Homicides In 2024: 1.6 Homicides Per 100,000 People
Newcastle
- 7 Homicides In 2024: 1.3 Homicides Per 100,000 People
- 11 Homicides In 2024: 1.9 Homicides Per 100,000 People
