Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
MK40 · Bedford Borough
512
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
LU1 · Luton
666
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Bedford has less crime — 512 vs 666 incidents in February 2026.
Luton saw somewhat more crime than Bedford in February 2026 (666 vs 512 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Public order (45), while Luton has more Drugs (58). Both areas are above the national average for recorded crime; the full 24-month reports break down the trends and outcomes in detail.
Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.
Based on February 2026 Police data, Bedford recorded fewer crimes than Luton — 512 vs 666 incidents. That is 23% fewer crimes. Luton is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Bedford saw higher rates of Public order while Luton had more Drugs. Overall, Bedford recorded fewer total crimes (512 vs 666).