Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CM1 · Essex
267
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
CM6 · Essex
44
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
Great Dunmow has less crime — 44 vs 267 incidents in February 2026.
Chelmsford recorded substantially more crime than Great Dunmow in February 2026 — 267 incidents compared to 44, a 6.1x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Chelmsford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (38) and Anti-social behaviour (26), while Great Dunmow has more Criminal damage & arson (7) and Other theft (4). Chelmsford sits above the national average for recorded crime while Great Dunmow is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.
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, Great Dunmow recorded fewer crimes than Chelmsford — 44 vs 267 incidents. That is 84% fewer crimes. Great Dunmow is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Chelmsford saw higher rates of Shoplifting and Anti-social behaviour while Great Dunmow had more Criminal damage & arson and Other theft. Overall, Great Dunmow recorded fewer total crimes (44 vs 267).