Durham vs Sunderland — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Durham

DH1 · County Durham

333

crimes in February 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences103
  • Anti-social behaviour74
  • Shoplifting39

Sunderland

SR6 · Sunderland

37

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences13
  • Anti-social behaviour7
  • Burglary6

Sunderland has less crime — 37 vs 333 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Durham recorded substantially more crime than Sunderland in February 2026 — 333 incidents compared to 37, a 9.0x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Durham sees higher rates of Shoplifting (39), while Sunderland has more Burglary (6). Durham sits above the national average for recorded crime while Sunderland is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Durham or Sunderland safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Sunderland recorded fewer crimes than Durham — 37 vs 333 incidents. That is 89% fewer crimes. Sunderland is also below the national average for crime.

What are the main differences in crime between Durham and Sunderland?

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Durham saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Sunderland had more Burglary. Overall, Sunderland recorded fewer total crimes (37 vs 333).

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