Families residing in less affluent areas of the UK are at a higher risk of experiencing burglaries compared to those in wealthier neighborhoods, according to recent research findings.

Data from the Home Office indicates a decrease in residential burglaries, with 154,000 incidents reported in 2025, marking an 11% drop from the previous year and a 20% decrease from 2022. Only 5% of the recorded residential burglaries resulted in charges, and 7% of cases are still under investigation.

Charge rates varied across regions, with South Wales having the highest charge rate at 12% and Hertfordshire the lowest at 2%.

Despite major cities like Birmingham and Leeds recording the highest total number of residential burglaries in 2025, when accounting for population size, Middlesbrough had the highest burglary rate. Middlesbrough reported 863 residential burglaries in 2025, equivalent to 14 break-ins per 1,000 households.

Middlesbrough ranks second in deprivation levels among local authorities in England, following Blackpool. Bradford also had a high burglary rate, with 13 break-ins per 1,000 households.

Northern cities such as Kingston upon Hull, Leeds, and Burnley, along with urban areas like Birmingham, Westminster, Camden, and Southwark, had notable burglary rates. Conversely, affluent rural communities like North Norfolk, Breckland, and Eden in Cumbria had lower burglary rates.

The analysis defines residential burglary as unauthorized entry into an inhabited building with the intent to steal, including break-ins at sheds and garages. Police data encompass aggravated burglary, distraction burglaries, and attempted break-ins.

Urban areas continue to have a higher concentration of burglaries, while rural communities benefit from geographic isolation and community initiatives like Neighbourhood Watch schemes.

Although there has been an overall decline in burglaries, law enforcement emphasizes the importance of prioritizing home security regardless of the location.

Readers can use the interactive map to compare burglary rates in their respective areas.