New Home Office data reveals stark disparities in burglary risk across England, with Middlesbrough recording the highest rate of residential break-ins despite an overall national decline. The town experienced 863 residential burglaries in 2025, equivalent to 14 per 1,000 households, even as total home burglaries fell 11% year-on-year to 154,000.
National Trends and Charge Rates
Residential burglaries in 2025 were 20% lower than in 2022, continuing a downward trend. However, only 5% of cases resulted in a charge, though 7% remain under investigation. Charge rates varied widely: South Wales had the highest rate at 12%, while Hertfordshire recorded the lowest at 2%.
Urban Concentration and Deprivation Link
Analysis by the Office for National Statistics confirms burglaries remain concentrated in urban areas. Birmingham recorded the highest total number (4,994), followed by Leeds (4,203). When adjusted for population, Middlesbrough topped the list, reflecting its status as England's second-most deprived local authority after Blackpool. Bradford followed closely with 13 burglaries per 1,000 households, ranking 12th in deprivation.
Other northern cities in the top 10 include Kingston upon Hull, Leeds, and Burnley, each with around 12 burglaries per 1,000 households. London boroughs Westminster (13), Camden (12), and Southwark (12) also featured prominently.
Safest Areas
At the opposite end, affluent rural communities recorded the lowest burglary rates. North Norfolk, Breckland, and Eden in Cumbria each had just two burglaries per 1,000 households. Previous ONS analysis suggests geographic isolation and stronger neighbourhood networks, including Neighbourhood Watch schemes, may contribute to lower risk.
Police emphasise that home security remains important regardless of location, as urban areas offer greater anonymity for opportunistic burglars. The figures cover residential burglaries, including break-ins at homes, sheds, and garages, as well as aggravated and distraction burglaries.
