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Located in the West Midlands region of England, Birmingham is considered the second-largest city in the UK.
It is celebrated for its rich heritage, booming economy, and diverse community, which give it a unique character.
But apart from being a go-to destination for many across England, Birmingham also has another side to it.
The city, despite all its vibrance, is often seen as dangerous and continues to rank among the most crime-affected areas in the UK.
Birmingham, in 2023, has the worst crime rate, with approximately 136 crimes reported per 1,000 people.Â
However, the latest report, covering the 12 months to September 2024, shows a slight decrease in the numbers from 136 to 128.63 crimes per 1,000 people, indicating slow but positive progress.
In this article, we will examine the most challenging areas in Birmingham, compare its crime rates to those of other cities in the UK, and offer advice on staying safe while living in or visiting this vibrant city.
Birmingham Crime Rates: Types of Crime
In recent years, the city has seen notable fluctuations in its crime patterns.Â
In April 2023, Birmingham recorded the highest rate of theft from a person in the entire West Midlands, with 208 crimes and a rate of 0.20 per 1,000 people. Â
Similarly, March 2022 was another difficult month, with 213 theft from the person incidents at the same rate.
When we look at overall figures, the most reported crime in Birmingham during 2023 was violence and sexual offences, which totalled 63,464 offences, amounting to a crime rate of 61 per 1,000 people. Encouragingly, this was a 10% decrease from 2022, when there were 70,435 offences and a higher crime rate of 67.Â
Notably, the least number of registered crimes was bicycle theft, with 938 offences in 2023, marking a 12% drop from 2022’s 1,072 incidents.
The data above not only reflects the most common offences occurring in the area but also shows that crime levels have fallen in certain parts of the city.Â
This suggests that by taking necessary actions, such as effective policing, employing trained manned security personnel, and using thoughtful crime prevention strategies, we can make a real difference over a period of time.Â
Based on official data from CrimeRate.co.uk, let’s have a look at the crime table below to understand the trends in different types of crime.Â
Birmingham Crime Data
Type Of Crime | Crime Count (2023) | Crime Rate (per 1,000 people) |
Violence & Sexual Offences | 63,464 | 61 |
Vehicle Crime | 12,933 | 12 |
Robbery | 4,188 | 4.02 |
Theft from the Person | 2,491 | 2.4 |
Public Order Offences | 8,173 | 7.8 |
Drugs | 3,942 | 3.8 |
Criminal Damage & Arson | 5,782 | 5.6 |
Other Theft (eg. shoplifting) | 7,832 | 7.5 |
Burglary | 6,195 | 6.0 |
Bicycle Theft | 938 | 0.9 |
Source: CrimeRate.co.uk (January–December 2023)
Notes:
- The data above covers the calendar year 2023 (January to December).
- Crime counts reflect the total number of reported offences during this period in Birmingham.
- Crime rates show the number of crimes per 1,000 people.
- The data above covers the calendar year 2023 (January–December) and reflects the breakdown of crimes by type in Birmingham. More recent figures — for the rolling 12 months ending September 2024 — are available only for the overall crime rate, which is cited separately below when comparing Birmingham to other UK cities
Is Birmingham Safe?Â
When comparing Birmingham against other major cities in the UK, it becomes evident that while the city faces significant challenges, it is not alone.Â
Many urban centres in the UK experience similar crime pressures, although Birmingham ranks higher than most in terms of overall crime rates.
Birmingham in Comparison with Major Cities in the UK (Oct 2023 – Sep 2024)
City | Crime Rate (per 1,000 people) | Rate Difference |
London | 28.93 | 78% safer |
Tower Hamlets | 98.60 | 23% safer |
Sheffield | 102.94 | 20% safer |
Camden | 108.07 | 16% safer |
Nottingham | 110.86 | 14% safer |
Liverpool | 124.42 | 3.3% safer |
Birmingham | 128.63 | – |
Bristol | 140.84 | 1.7% more dangerous |
Westminister | 132.94 | 3.4% more dangerous |
Leeds | 150.56 | 10% more dangerous |
 Notes:
- Figures above reflect the rolling 12-month period ending September 2024.
- These figures represent the overall crime rate (comprising all types of offences) per 1,000 people, by city.
- Detailed breakdowns by crime type (e.g., violence, theft) are only available for calendar year 2023 and are shown earlier in this article.
So, is Birmingham safe?
Birmingham currently records around 128.63 crimes for every 1,000 people.
Although the crime rate in Birmingham is lower than that of cities like Leeds and Bristol, it remains higher than in London, Liverpool, and Sheffield.
This puts Birmingham among the UK’s major cities with some of the highest crime rates, although it’s essential to note that it’s not the most dangerous.
Like any large city, Birmingham is a mix of both — some neighbourhoods feel safe and welcoming, while others carry higher risks. The key is knowing where those differences lie and taking reasonable precautions based on your location.
There are certain areas in Birmingham that one should avoid or be aware of.
Let’s have a look at the worst areas in Birmingham to avoid.
Top 10 Worst Areas in Birmingham
It’s essential to understand that the following areas often face higher crime rates and social challenges.
Knowing the worst parts of Birmingham and the areas of Birmingham to avoid can help residents and visitors make safer choices.Â
Below is a list of the top 10 worst places to live in Birmingham, UK, based on reported crime rates and local insights.
Birmingham City Centre
Birmingham City Centre is the hub of the city; it’s home to shopping centres, nightlife, and cultural landmarks. Despite its popularity, it has the highest crime rate in Birmingham, at 349.9 crimes per 1,000 people. The most common offences here include violence, theft, and shoplifting, particularly around the busiest streets and venues.
Bordesley Green
Bordesley Green is located to the east of the city centre and is a close-knit community. However, it faces a high crime rate of 290.1 crimes per 1,000 people, with violence, public order offences, and vehicle crime ranking the highest.
Aston & Newtown
Aston & Newtown are known for their multicultural atmosphere and local landmarks. Unfortunately, the crime rate here stands at 241.4 crimes per 1,000 people, with violent offences, vehicle crime, and public disorder topping the list.
Edgbaston
Famous for its cricket ground and green spaces, Edgbaston also has areas near the centre that struggle with crime. The crime rate here is 218.1 crimes per 1,000 people, with violence, vehicle theft, and antisocial behaviour being common in certain parts.
Stockland Green & Gravelly Hill
This area combines residential streets with industrial sites and busy road networks. It has a crime rate of 214.2 crimes per 1,000 people, with violence, vehicle crime, and criminal damage being the most reported offences.
Acocks Green & Tyseley
Located at the southeast of Birmingham, Acocks Green & Tyseley have been continuously reporting a higher rate of crime. With a rate of 199.1 crimes per 1,000 people, they experience frequent violence, public order offences, and theft.
Lozells & East Handsworth
Known for its dense housing and diverse community, Lozells & East Handsworth has long faced social and crime challenges. The area has a crime rate of 196.8 crimes per 1,000 people, primarily driven by violence, public order offences, and vehicle theft.
Tyburn & Castle Vale
These neighbouring areas have seen regeneration in recent years, but still report high crime. Their rate is 189.4 crimes per 1,000 people, with violence, theft, and property damage being among the most common offences.
Hodge Hill
A suburban area with large housing estates, Hodge Hill records a crime rate of 186.8 crimes per 1,000 people, with shoplifting, violence, and vehicle crime being the most recorded.
Longbridge
Known for its industrial heritage, Longbridge’s crime rate stands at 179.7 crimes per 1,000 people, the area deals with violence, criminal damage, and theft regularly.
These areas of Birmingham have continuously ranked high in crime rates. In order to improve the situation and reduce the rate of crime here, emphasis must be placed on proper security and the appointment of qualified SIA-licensed personnel.
This is especially crucial, as some of these locations exhibit similar trends to those seen in the top 10 most dangerous towns in the UK, where concentrated efforts in policing and security have already shown improvements.
Start Your Career in Security and Help Make Cities Safer
As crime continues to challenge cities like Birmingham, trained security professionals are more vital than ever.Â
Whether you want to work on the front line or behind the scenes, here are some trusted training options:
- SIA Door Supervisor Training
- SIA Security Guard Training Course
- Close Protection Training
- SIA CCTV Operator Training
Start your training today and help keep communities safe
How to Stay Safe in Birmingham
Maintaining certain safety precautions can help you stay safe and enjoy the vibrant beauty and lifestyle that the city has to offer.
Staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding known hotspots after dark can go a long way in keeping you out of trouble.
Tips to Stay Safe:
- Stick to well-lit, busy areas, especially at night.
- Keep your valuables out of sight and secure at all times.
- Use licensed taxis or trusted public transport after evenings out.
- Stay alert in crowded places where pickpocketing is common.
- Avoid walking alone through unfamiliar areas, particularly those with high crime rates.
- Businesses must install proper CCTV cameras as a precaution to deter crime and gather evidence if needed.
By following these simple steps, you will be able to reduce the risk and enjoy everything Birmingham has to offer.
If you’re a business owner in Birmingham, hiring qualified security personnel is one of the most effective ways to protect your property and customers.Â
However, it’s crucial to verify who you hire properly. With fake SIA licences becoming increasingly common, it’s always beneficial to check that your team members hold a valid SIA licence, have successfully passed their SIA criminal check, and are fully authorised to work.Â
Best Places to Live in Birmingham
Not all areas of Birmingham have high crime rates — the city also boasts some excellent, safe, and welcoming neighbourhoods.Â
Here are five of the best places to live in Birmingham that offer a blend of culture, green spaces, and a strong sense of community spirit.
Top Areas to Consider:
- Erdington – This residential neighbourhood is renowned for its affordable housing, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community that continues to thrive, making it a solid choice for families and first-time buyers alike.
- Digbeth – With its creative energy, regenerated industrial buildings, and a lively mix of trendy bars and cultural spaces, Digbeth has become a favourite among young professionals looking for something a little different.
- Moseley and Kings Heath – These two neighbouring suburbs are loved for their leafy streets, independent shops, and welcoming, artsy vibe that makes them feel both charming and full of character.
- Edgbaston – Just a stone’s throw from the city centre yet noticeably quieter, Edgbaston offers elegant homes, excellent schools, and its famous cricket ground, giving it a refined yet accessible feel.
- Harborne and Solihull – Harborne boasts a quaint, village-like atmosphere within the city, while nearby Solihull offers a more suburban lifestyle, complete with excellent amenities, good schools, and lower crime rates, making it ideal for those seeking peace without straying too far from Birmingham.
Although some parts of Birmingham do have higher crime rates, not every area is risky.Â
Like anywhere else, the city has its good and bad spots. As long as you stay cautious in the higher-risk neighbourhoods, you can enjoy what the city has to offer without worry.
Conclusion
A city comes with both highs and lows, and Birmingham is no exception. With the right measures, crime can be significantly reduced, as reflected in recent data.Â
Although Birmingham recorded a crime rate of 136 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023, the rate declined to 128.63 per 1,000 in the 12 months ending in September 2024, indicating a positive trend.Â
With proper policies and regulations in place, this number can continue to fall, helping create a safer and more secure environment for everyone.
FAQs
What are the worst areas in Birmingham?
The worst areas in Birmingham, based on crime rates, include Birmingham City Centre, Bordesley Green, Aston & Newtown, Edgbaston (central parts), and Stockland Green. These neighbourhoods report higher rates of violence, theft, and antisocial behaviour compared to other parts of the city.
What is the crime rate in Birmingham?
Birmingham recorded a crime rate of 136 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023, which fell to 128.63 crimes per 1,000 people in the 12 months ending September 2024. This places Birmingham among the UK’s major cities with higher-than-average crime rates.
Is Birmingham safe to live in?
Birmingham has both safe and high-risk areas. While some neighbourhoods experience higher crime rates, others are known for being quiet and family-friendly. If you avoid the worst parts of Birmingham and take sensible precautions, the city can still be a safe and enjoyable place to live.
What are the top 10 worst places to live in Birmingham, UK?
The top 10 worst places to live in Birmingham, based on crime data, include:
- Birmingham City Centre
- Bordesley Green
- Aston & Newtown
- Edgbaston
- Stockland Green & Gravelly Hill
- Acocks Green & Tyseley
- Lozells & East Handsworth
- Tyburn & Castle Vale
- Hodge Hill
- Longbridge
Are there areas of Birmingham to avoid at night?
Yes, it’s best to avoid poorly-lit or deserted areas, particularly in neighbourhoods like the city centre, Bordesley Green, and Aston at night. Staying in well-populated, secure areas is advised after dark.
What are the best places to live in Birmingham?
Some of the best places to live in Birmingham, with lower crime rates and a good quality of life, include Erdington, Digbeth, Moseley & Kings Heath, Edgbaston (outer parts), Harborne, and Solihull.
How does Birmingham’s crime rate compare to other UK cities?
Birmingham’s crime rate of 128.63 per 1,000 people is higher than cities like London, Liverpool, and Sheffield but lower than Bristol, Leeds, and Westminster.
How can I stay safe in Birmingham?
To stay safe in Birmingham, stick to well-lit, busy areas, keep valuables secure, avoid high-risk areas after dark, and stay aware of your surroundings. Businesses should also invest in CCTV and hire properly licensed security staff.
