Bedford vs Dunstable — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Bedford

MK41 · Bedford Borough

179

crimes in April 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences56
  • Shoplifting38
  • Anti-social behaviour26

Dunstable

LU6 · Central Bedfordshire

101

crimes in April 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences42
  • Anti-social behaviour18
  • Other theft9

Dunstable has less crime — 101 vs 179 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Bedford recorded notably higher crime than Dunstable in April 2026 — 179 vs 101 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bedford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (38), while Dunstable has more Other theft (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 April 2026 Police data, Dunstable recorded fewer crimes than Bedford — 101 vs 179 incidents. That is 44% 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 April 2026, Bedford saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Dunstable had more Other theft. Overall, Dunstable recorded fewer total crimes (101 vs 179).

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