Bolton vs Manchester — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Bolton

BL1 · Bolton

5

crimes in March 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences4
  • Public order1

Manchester

M1 · Greater Manchester

10

crimes in March 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences5
  • Other theft3
  • Theft from person2

Bolton has less crime — 5 vs 10 incidents in March 2026.

What the data shows

Manchester recorded notably higher crime than Bolton in March 2026 — 10 vs 5 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Bolton sees higher rates of Public order (1), while Manchester has more Other theft (3) and Theft from person (2). Both areas sit below the national average for recorded crime — a positive sign for either location.

Get a detailed crime report

Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.

Get the full Bolton report — £4.99 Get the full Manchester report — £4.99
View Bolton area page → View Manchester area page →

Frequently asked questions

Is Bolton or Manchester safer?

Based on March 2026 Police data, Bolton recorded fewer crimes than Manchester — 5 vs 10 incidents. That is 50% fewer crimes. Bolton is also below the national average for crime.

What are the main differences in crime between Bolton and Manchester?

The main difference lies in crime type. In March 2026, Bolton saw higher rates of Public order while Manchester had more Other theft and Theft from person. Overall, Bolton recorded fewer total crimes (5 vs 10).

Compare other areas

Ramsbottom vs ManchesterBolton vs ManchesterBolton vs ManchesterBolton vs ManchesterBolton vs SalfordBolton vs Manchester