Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
MK40 · Bedford Borough
600
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
LU2 · Luton
285
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Luton has less crime — 285 vs 600 incidents in April 2026.
Bedford recorded notably higher crime than Luton in April 2026 — 600 vs 285 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (79), while Luton has more Vehicle crime (22). 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 April 2026 Police data, Luton recorded fewer crimes than Bedford — 285 vs 600 incidents. That is 53% fewer crimes. Bedford is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Bedford saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Luton had more Vehicle crime. Overall, Luton recorded fewer total crimes (285 vs 600).