Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
MK40 · Bedford Borough
601
crimes in March 2026
Above national average
SG1 · Hertfordshire
409
crimes in March 2026
Above national average
Stevenage has less crime — 409 vs 601 incidents in March 2026.
Bedford saw somewhat more crime than Stevenage in March 2026 (601 vs 409 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (53), while Stevenage has more Public order (28). 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 March 2026 Police data, Stevenage recorded fewer crimes than Bedford — 409 vs 601 incidents. That is 32% fewer crimes. Bedford is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In March 2026, Bedford saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Stevenage had more Public order. Overall, Stevenage recorded fewer total crimes (409 vs 601).