Crime in Glasgow: Scotland’s Largest City

Glasgow is Scotland’s biggest city and a hub of culture, education and commerce. Its history as an industrial powerhouse and its lively nightlife contribute to a varied crime landscape. On our platform, we divide Glasgow into 10 areas, giving you a detailed view of how offences differ across the city.

Key Crime Categories

The mix of crime in Glasgow reflects its urban character and social diversity. Important categories include:

• Violence and disorder – assaults and public order offences often linked to alcohol consumption and nightlife, particularly in the city centre.
• Anti‑social behaviour – reports of nuisance, noise and street drinking, which can be prevalent around late‑night venues and housing estates.
• Housebreaking and theft – residential burglaries, shoplifting and bicycle thefts occur in both inner and outer areas.
• Drug and alcohol‑related offences – possession and supply of controlled substances and offences connected to the city’s nightlife economy.
• Vehicle crime – theft of and from cars and motorcycles, particularly around commuter routes and entertainment districts.

District‑Level Variation

The city centre and West End, with their dense clusters of bars, clubs and tourist attractions, record higher levels of violence, disorder and theft. East End districts such as Calton and Bridgeton have historically experienced higher rates of violence and drug offences, though regeneration efforts and community initiatives are changing the picture. Suburbs like Pollokshields or Bearsden typically see lower overall crime but may still face sporadic break‑ins or antisocial behaviour.

Socio‑economic factors, particularly deprivation and unemployment, influence crime in Glasgow, but policing strategies and community engagement also play significant roles in shaping local patterns.

Using SafePostcode to Explore Glasgow

To dive into Glasgow’s data, start with our search tool, which allows you to enter a postcode and view monthly crime counts by category. Our city overview summarises the 10 Glasgow areas with charts showing how offences have fluctuated over time. If you want to compare Glasgow to other UK cities, read our guide on comparing crime rates.

For practical safety advice for city living, check out our safety tips article. Staying aware of your surroundings and connected with neighbours can make a big difference.