Is Edinburgh Safe? A Comprehensive Look at Crime Rates and Safety

To get an idea of Edinburgh's safety, we need to go through the crime rate and trend. The statistics will explain how safe or dangerous Edinburgh is.

In this article, we will share the latest crime statistics of Edinburgh. We will share the crime trend and common crimes. We will discuss the safety concerns for travelers and students. For the readers' safety, we will share some safe and dangerous areas in the city along with some safety tips.

Is Edinburgh Safe?

Edinburgh is generally safer compared to other Scottish cities, where the crime rate is higher. Its crime rate is below the national average, which makes it a safer option. The total number of crimes recorded in 2024 was 42,285, excluding road traffic offenses.

The crime rate in Edinburgh per 1,000 people is 67.9. In the year 2024, non-sexual crimes of violence were 219, sexual crimes were 32, crimes of dishonesty were 580, crimes against society were 171, damage and reckless behavior were 121, and antisocial offences were 119 per 1,000 population.

According to Numbeo, the city's crime index is 30.93, while its safety index is 69.07. The level of crime in the city is low compared to other large cities in the UK.

Is Edinburgh Safe at Night?

Edinburgh is also safe at night. According to Numbeo, the safety of walking alone at night is 62.33, which is high. It is an excellent indicator, and during daylight, it's 83.31.

It's safe to travel and walk at night. But make sure to be vigilant and stay away from drunken guys. Most areas in the city are well-lit, and people can go out without any issues. Public transport is commendable. Famous places with high footfalls and tourist attractions have a high level of security 24/7.

Is Edinburgh Safe for Travelers?

Yes, Edinburgh is safe for travelers. Even if you are traveling solo, it is much safer compared to other famous and metropolitan cities. Travelers, including women, have applauded Edinburgh for its low crime rate and safety measures.

The overall crime rate of Edinburgh is low, as we discussed. Even in these crime reports, the involvement of travelers is quite low. The atmosphere of the city is welcoming, and many travelers feel like it's their home. In short, Edinburgh is a very safe place for travelers, and they should go without any worries.

Is Edinburgh Safe for Students?

Edinburgh is generally considered a safe place for students. The crime rate is already low, so the chances of becoming a victim are low, and as a student, they are extremely low. The presence of police and CCTV cameras gives confidence to students. Most areas are populated and well-lit, allowing students to walk around the university at night without any concerns.

Universities, such as the University of Edinburgh, have dedicated security teams. Students also get support from universities, which includes counselling and platforms for reporting issues.

The Safest and Most Dangerous Areas in Edinburgh

Safest Areas in Edinburgh

Some areas and neighborhoods in Edinburgh are extremely safe. Their crime rate is lower than that of other areas in the city.

Here is a list of the safest places where you can go without hesitation.

• Morningside
• Stockbridge
• Bruntsfield
• Newington
• Marchmont
• Old Town
• New Town

Most Dangerous Areas in Edinburgh

Although the city's crime rate is low, there are some areas where it is higher than in other neighborhoods. People should be careful in these areas to avoid any mishap.

Here is a list of the most dangerous areas in Edinburgh.

• The City Centre
• Leith
• Wester Hailes
• Muirhouse
• Sighthill and Gorgie
• Almond
• Forth
• Portobello & Craigmillar
• Liberton & Gilmerton

Safety Tips to Stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is generally safe, but taking precautions is advisable. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Protect your valuables, and stay in well-lit and crowded areas. Avoid dangerous areas, and plan your route smartly. If you want to travel, prefer licensed transportation.

Trust your instincts and leave the area if you feel unsafe. Remember the emergency and non-emergency contact numbers and contact them if you have any issues. As a student, you can reach out to the university support and student services.

At your residence, secure everything. Use locks, preferably smart locks. Lock the doors and windows. For enhanced security, you can use Reolink Duo 3V PoE. It's a 16MP vandal-proof dome security camera that covers 180 °, tracks the motion of objects, and sends real-time alerts.

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FAQs

1. Is tap water in Edinburgh safe to drink?

Yes, the tap water in Edinburgh is safe to drink. However, make sure the pipelines and plumbing system are also safe.

2. What is nicer, Glasgow or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a classic city with a rich history and visual beauty. You would love the iconic landmarks. Glasgow is more modern and vibrant. It's where you can find music, art, and culture.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is one of the safest cities in Scotland. Its crime rate is extremely low, which is a good sign for travelers, students, and citizens. However, people should still be aware of crime trends, common crimes, safe & dangerous areas, etc. Secondly, they should follow safety tips and implement safety measures to reduce the chances of becoming a crime victim.