Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
S75 · Barnsley
71
crimes in April 2026
Below national average
S61 · Rotherham
268
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Barnsley has less crime — 71 vs 268 incidents in April 2026.
Rotherham recorded substantially more crime than Barnsley in April 2026 — 268 incidents compared to 71, a 3.8x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Barnsley sees higher rates of Shoplifting (9) and Public order (8), while Rotherham has more Anti-social behaviour (52) and Criminal damage & arson (30). Barnsley is below the national average while Rotherham is above, making Barnsley the safer choice on this measure.
Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.
Based on April 2026 Police data, Barnsley recorded fewer crimes than Rotherham — 71 vs 268 incidents. That is 74% fewer crimes. Barnsley is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Barnsley saw higher rates of Shoplifting and Public order while Rotherham had more Anti-social behaviour and Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Barnsley recorded fewer total crimes (71 vs 268).