Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
MK40 · Bedford Borough
600
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
LU3 · Luton
250
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Luton has less crime — 250 vs 600 incidents in April 2026.
Bedford recorded notably higher crime than Luton in April 2026 — 600 vs 250 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (79), while Luton has more Criminal damage & arson (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 — 250 vs 600 incidents. That is 58% 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 Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Luton recorded fewer total crimes (250 vs 600).