Our analysis reveals the safest places to live for retirees and downsizers who want to enjoy their best years with as little worry as possible.
Regency Living has analysed England & Wales regional crime rate data on a postcode district level* to identify which areas have the lowest overall level of crime, as measured by the number of reported crimes per 1,000 local residents in 2023. For example, if an area saw 20 crimes reported per 1,000 residents in 2023, the crime rate is stated as 20.
Regency Living has also analysed average sold price data* to reveal how much downsizers can expect to pay to buy a property in these low-crime areas.
The data reveals that Cornwall and Exeter dominate the top 20 safest postcodes in the nation, representing six spots each, while the South West region as a whole is home to 15 of 20 safest areas.
The lowest crime rate in the country is recorded in Exeter’s EX24 postcode district where 2023 saw just 12 reported crimes per 1,000 residents.
Two more South West postcode districts come next, with PL8 in South Hams having a low crime rate of just 14, and EX37 in Exeter scoring 16.
Wales is represented in the top 5 safest areas, as LL27 in Conwy has a crime rate of 18, followed by another Exeter postcode, EX21, where the crime rate stands at 20.
House prices in the safest areas
The average house price across the 20 safest postcode districts in England & Wales is £351,707, significantly higher than the current average price across all of England & Wales which currently stands at £297,739.
The most expensive safe postcodes are located in the South West and South East of England.
For example, in the South East, Surrey Heath’s GU18 postcode district boasts an average house price of £494,582.
In the South West, the likes of PL8 in South Hams commands an average price of £460,854.
However, downsizers who are looking to live in a safe area without paying a high house price can look towards Wales for a good solution.
Conwy’s LL27 has an average price of £230,074, and SA63 in Pembrokeshire has an average price of £265,648.
A Regency Living spokesperson commented:
“The South West excels in low crime rates, making it an ideal destination for downsizers seeking an idyllic lifestyle in a secure neighbourhood. However, the relatively high house prices in the area may not fit every downsizer’s budget.
One way to make living in the South West more attainable is by exploring park homes instead of traditional brick-and-mortar options. Park home sites not only offer peaceful, picturesque locations but also provide a close-knit, gated community where residents look out for one another, adding an extra layer of personal safety and security.”
Data tables and sources
- *2023 crime rate data by postcode district sourced from Property Data - note that crime data accuracy is dependent on each police force’s ability to provide accurate figures, as is explained at police.co.uk.
