The West Midlands is a region characterized by its diverse communities, each possessing unique attributes. Safety and security are vital considerations for residents and potential homebuyers in evaluating the suitability of an area.
This article provides a data-driven analysis of crime rates across the West Midlands, pinpointing areas with demonstrably lower crime rates. By comparing these areas against regional and national averages across categories including violence, property crime, and public order offences, this aims to empower residents to make well-informed decisions about their present and future living arrangements. Presented is a comprehensive, area-by-area analysis that highlights the safest locations within the West Midlands, and the factors contributing to their enhanced security.
Sutton Coldfield (B74)
Sutton Coldfield (B74) is a suburban area situated northeast of Birmingham. The area is characterized by its parks and family-oriented environment with convenient access to Birmingham. Its safe community is a major reason why people want to live there.
The area reports crime rates significantly lower than regional and national benchmarks. There are approximately 11 incidents of violence and sexual offences per 1,000 households annually, considerably lower than the West Midlands average of 126 and the national average of 79. Property crime stands at approximately 10 incidents per 1,000 households, substantially lower than the county average of 70 and the national average of 39 incidents. Theft, public order offences, and overall weighted crime rates are also 85-90% lower than the broader West Midlands area.
These figures show that residents of Sutton Coldfield experience a considerably safer environment compared to many other parts of the West Midlands and England. Areas such as Mere Green, although generally safe, may experience slightly higher crime rates due to restaurant and pub activity. Overall, the low crime rates contribute to the high quality of life, making it an attractive location for families and those seeking a peaceful residential area. Local community assets like libraries and sports clubs help to deter crime and enhance community cohesion.
Solihull (B93)
Solihull (B93) is a suburban area southeast of Solihull town centre. Knowle, Dorridge, and Bentley Heath are areas within it. Safety is a major consideration for those who want to live there.
The area reports crime rates notably lower than regional and national averages. There are approximately 35 incidents of violence and sexual offences per 1,000 households annually, 72% lower than the West Midlands average. Property crime stands at around 31 incidents per 1,000 households, more than 55% lower than the county average. Theft offences are nearly 69% lower, and public order offences show a decrease of 67% compared to the wider area. The overall weighted crime rate is 67% lower than the West Midlands average and approximately 51% lower than the national average.
These statistics suggest that residents of Solihull (B93) generally experience a higher level of security compared to many other areas in the West Midlands and the U.K. Community focal points, such as Knowle Parish Church and schools like Arden Academy, promote a close-knit community, which likely contributes to lower crime rates. Isolated incidents may occur, but the data indicates a relatively safe and secure living environment. Convenient transport links make the area an attractive option for those seeking suburban living with good connectivity.
Sutton Coldfield (B75)
Sutton Coldfield (B75) is a residential area situated northeast of Birmingham city centre. It has parks and schools with areas like Four Oaks. It offers suburban living within reach of urban amenities. Community is one of its main draws.
The area generally experiences lower crime rates compared to regional and national averages. Incidents of violence and sexual offences occur at a rate of approximately 41 per 1,000 households annually, compared to 126 in the wider West Midlands area and 79 nationally. Property crime stands at around 34 incidents per 1,000 households, significantly lower than the county average of 70 and the national average of 39. Theft-related crimes and public order offences also follow this pattern, with rates substantially below both regional and national figures. The overall weighted crime rate in B75 is approximately 62% lower than the West Midlands average and 42% lower than the national average.
In practice, B75 residents are likely to feel more secure in their day-to-day lives. Areas with commercial centres like Mere Green maintain a reasonable level of safety. Local schools like Bishop Vesey's Grammar School and transport links such as Four Oaks railway station foster a cohesive local environment, potentially contributing to lower crime rates and an enhanced quality of life.
Kingswinford (DY6)
Kingswinford (DY6) is a town west-southwest of Dudley, marking the edge of the West Midlands urban area. It became an urban environment from the 1950s and 60s onwards. The area has an identity that makes it an attractive place to live.
Kingswinford experiences generally lower crime rates than both the wider West Midlands and the national average. Violence and sexual offences occur at approximately 41 incidents per 1,000 households each year, below the West Midlands average of 126. Property crime is 30 incidents per 1,000 households, significantly below the county average of 70 incidents. Theft, at approximately 41 incidents per 1,000 households, is 15% higher than the national average. Public order offences are substantially lower than both regional and national averages. The weighted crime rate in Kingswinford is 59% lower than the West Midlands average, and approximately 39% lower than the national average.
Residents of Kingswinford benefit from a safer environment than in many other parts of the West Midlands and England, particularly regarding violent and property crime. Slightly higher figures for theft suggest vigilance regarding petty crime is advisable. Local amenities, such as schools and good transport links to towns like Dudley, Stourbridge, and Wolverhampton, make Kingswinford a generally secure and well-connected place to live.
Sutton Coldfield (B73)
Sutton Coldfield (B73) is a residential area northeast of Birmingham. It strikes a balance between urban accessibility and suburban tranquility, with safety being a key consideration for residents.
The area shows impressive crime statistics compared to both regional and national averages. There are approximately 39 incidents of property crime and 38 incidents of violence and sexual offences reported for every 1,000 households per year. These figures are lower than the West Midlands averages, where property crime stands at 70 incidents and violent crime at 126 incidents per 1,000 households. Theft and public order offences are also substantially lower than the county averages, with a weighted average approximately 59% lower than the West Midlands as a whole. Compared to England's national averages, crime rates in B73 are significantly better, with overall weighted crime being almost 40% lower.
These figures enable a safer living environment for residents of Sutton Coldfield (B73). While petty crime may still occur, the levels are significantly lower than in many other areas. This enhanced sense of security contributes to the area's appeal. The suburb offers an attractive lifestyle with a relaxed atmosphere and a wide range of amenities.