Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CO2 · Essex
203
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
IP4 · Suffolk
309
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Colchester has less crime — 203 vs 309 incidents in April 2026.
Ipswich recorded notably higher crime than Colchester in April 2026 — 309 vs 203 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Colchester sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (26) and Vehicle crime (18), while Ipswich has more Shoplifting (66) and Criminal damage & arson (33). 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, Colchester recorded fewer crimes than Ipswich — 203 vs 309 incidents. That is 34% fewer crimes. Ipswich is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Colchester saw higher rates of Anti-social behaviour and Vehicle crime while Ipswich had more Shoplifting and Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Colchester recorded fewer total crimes (203 vs 309).