Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
MK40 · Bedford Borough
600
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
LU4 · Luton
271
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Luton has less crime — 271 vs 600 incidents in April 2026.
Bedford recorded notably higher crime than Luton in April 2026 — 600 vs 271 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (79), while Luton has more Drugs (21). 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 — 271 vs 600 incidents. That is 55% 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 Drugs. Overall, Luton recorded fewer total crimes (271 vs 600).