Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CO1 · Essex
430
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
IP1 · Suffolk
373
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Ipswich has less crime — 373 vs 430 incidents in February 2026.
Colchester saw somewhat more crime than Ipswich in February 2026 (430 vs 373 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Colchester sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (34), while Ipswich 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, Ipswich recorded fewer crimes than Colchester — 373 vs 430 incidents. That is 13% fewer crimes. Colchester is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Colchester saw higher rates of Anti-social behaviour while Ipswich had more Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Ipswich recorded fewer total crimes (373 vs 430).