Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CM1 · Essex
335
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
CM18 · Essex
295
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Harlow has less crime — 295 vs 335 incidents in April 2026.
Chelmsford and Harlow recorded very similar overall crime levels in April 2026 — 335 and 295 incidents respectively. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Chelmsford sees higher rates of Shoplifting (42), while Harlow has more Public order (21). 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, Harlow recorded fewer crimes than Chelmsford — 295 vs 335 incidents. That is 12% fewer crimes. Chelmsford is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Chelmsford saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Harlow had more Public order. Overall, Harlow recorded fewer total crimes (295 vs 335).