Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
RM8 · Greater London
550
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
SS2 · Southend-on-Sea
706
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Barking has less crime — 550 vs 706 incidents in April 2026.
Southend-on-Sea saw somewhat more crime than Barking in April 2026 (706 vs 550 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Barking sees higher rates of Shoplifting (58), while Southend-on-Sea has more Criminal damage & arson (60). Both areas are above the national average for recorded crime; the full 24-month reports break down the trends and outcomes in detail.
Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.
Based on April 2026 Police data, Barking recorded fewer crimes than Southend-on-Sea — 550 vs 706 incidents. That is 22% fewer crimes. Southend-on-Sea is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Barking saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Southend-on-Sea had more Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Barking recorded fewer total crimes (550 vs 706).