Durham vs Esh — Crime Comparison 2026

Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.

Durham

DH1 · County Durham

333

crimes in February 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences103
  • Anti-social behaviour74
  • Shoplifting39

Esh

DH7 · County Durham

21

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences10
  • Anti-social behaviour5
  • Criminal damage & arson3

Esh has less crime — 21 vs 333 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Durham recorded substantially more crime than Esh in February 2026 — 333 incidents compared to 21, a 15.9x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Durham sees higher rates of Shoplifting (39), while Esh has more Criminal damage & arson (3). Durham sits above the national average for recorded crime while Esh is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.

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Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Durham or Esh safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Esh recorded fewer crimes than Durham — 21 vs 333 incidents. That is 94% fewer crimes. Esh is also below the national average for crime.

What are the main differences in crime between Durham and Esh?

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Durham saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Esh had more Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Esh recorded fewer total crimes (21 vs 333).

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