Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CO3 · Essex
96
crimes in April 2026
Below national average
IP2 · Suffolk
312
crimes in April 2026
Above national average
Colchester has less crime — 96 vs 312 incidents in April 2026.
Ipswich recorded substantially more crime than Colchester in April 2026 — 312 incidents compared to 96, a 3.3x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Colchester sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (26) and Public order (7), while Ipswich has more Shoplifting (37) and Criminal damage & arson (32). Colchester is below the national average while Ipswich is above, making Colchester the safer choice on this measure.
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 — 96 vs 312 incidents. That is 69% fewer crimes. Colchester is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Colchester saw higher rates of Anti-social behaviour and Public order while Ipswich had more Shoplifting and Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Colchester recorded fewer total crimes (96 vs 312).