Safety scores on ScoreMyStreet range from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating safer neighborhoods. These scores are calculated using a proprietary algorithm that analyzes recent crime data from the Metropolitan Police Service.
The algorithm weighs different types of crimes differently, with violent crimes having a stronger negative impact on the safety score than non-violent offenses. We also consider crime density relative to population and compare rates to London-wide averages.
Areas with scores of 4.5-5 typically have very low crime rates across all categories. Scores between 3.5-4.5 indicate neighborhoods with generally low crime, while scores between 2.5-3.5 represent average safety levels for London. Areas with scores below 2.5 tend to have higher than average crime rates.
It's important to remember that safety is subjective and crime statistics only tell part of the story. Many areas with moderate safety scores have strong communities and other positive attributes that make them excellent places to live.