Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CO2 · Essex
207
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
IP4 · Suffolk
247
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Colchester has less crime — 207 vs 247 incidents in February 2026.
Ipswich saw somewhat more crime than Colchester in February 2026 (247 vs 207 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Colchester sees higher rates of Public order (15), while Ipswich has more Shoplifting (45). 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, Colchester recorded fewer crimes than Ipswich — 207 vs 247 incidents. That is 16% fewer crimes. Ipswich is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Colchester saw higher rates of Public order while Ipswich had more Shoplifting. Overall, Colchester recorded fewer total crimes (207 vs 247).