Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CM1 · Essex
267
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
CM18 · Essex
286
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Chelmsford has less crime — 267 vs 286 incidents in February 2026.
Chelmsford and Harlow recorded very similar overall crime levels in February 2026 — 267 and 286 incidents respectively. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Chelmsford sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (26), while Harlow has more Criminal damage & arson (26). 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 February 2026 Police data, Chelmsford recorded fewer crimes than Harlow — 267 vs 286 incidents. That is 7% fewer crimes. Harlow is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Chelmsford saw higher rates of Anti-social behaviour while Harlow had more Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Chelmsford recorded fewer total crimes (267 vs 286).