Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
LU4 · Luton
259
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
SG17 · Central Bedfordshire
52
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
Shefford has less crime — 52 vs 259 incidents in February 2026.
Luton recorded substantially more crime than Shefford in February 2026 — 259 incidents compared to 52, a 5.0x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Luton sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (37) and Criminal damage & arson (22), while Shefford has more Shoplifting (14) and Other theft (6). Luton sits above the national average for recorded crime while Shefford is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.
Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.
Based on February 2026 Police data, Shefford recorded fewer crimes than Luton — 52 vs 259 incidents. That is 80% fewer crimes. Shefford is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Luton saw higher rates of Anti-social behaviour and Criminal damage & arson while Shefford had more Shoplifting and Other theft. Overall, Shefford recorded fewer total crimes (52 vs 259).