Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CM13 · Essex
31
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
CM18 · Essex
286
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Brentwood has less crime — 31 vs 286 incidents in February 2026.
Harlow recorded substantially more crime than Brentwood in February 2026 — 286 incidents compared to 31, a 9.2x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Brentwood sees higher rates of Vehicle crime (7) and Other theft (2), while Harlow has more Shoplifting (26) and Criminal damage & arson (26). Brentwood is below the national average while Harlow is above, making Brentwood the safer choice on this measure.
Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.
Based on February 2026 Police data, Brentwood recorded fewer crimes than Harlow — 31 vs 286 incidents. That is 89% fewer crimes. Brentwood is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Brentwood saw higher rates of Vehicle crime and Other theft while Harlow had more Shoplifting and Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Brentwood recorded fewer total crimes (31 vs 286).