Bedford vs Dunstable — Crime Comparison 2026

Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.

Bedford

MK41 · Bedford Borough

129

crimes in February 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences45
  • Anti-social behaviour24
  • Shoplifting22

Dunstable

LU6 · Central Bedfordshire

67

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences19
  • Anti-social behaviour11
  • Burglary9

Dunstable has less crime — 67 vs 129 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Bedford recorded notably higher crime than Dunstable in February 2026 — 129 vs 67 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (22), while Dunstable has more Burglary (9). Both areas sit near the national average, with modest differences in their overall safety profile.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Bedford or Dunstable safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Dunstable recorded fewer crimes than Bedford — 67 vs 129 incidents. That is 48% fewer crimes. Dunstable is also below the national average for crime.

What are the main differences in crime between Bedford and Dunstable?

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Bedford saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Dunstable had more Burglary. Overall, Dunstable recorded fewer total crimes (67 vs 129).

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