Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CM11 · Essex
22
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
CM18 · Essex
286
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Essex has less crime — 22 vs 286 incidents in February 2026.
Harlow recorded substantially more crime than Essex in February 2026 — 286 incidents compared to 22, a 13.0x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Essex sees higher rates of Drugs (3) and Public order (2), while Harlow has more Shoplifting (26) and Criminal damage & arson (26). Essex is below the national average while Harlow is above, making Essex 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 February 2026 Police data, Essex recorded fewer crimes than Harlow — 22 vs 286 incidents. That is 92% fewer crimes. Essex is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Essex saw higher rates of Drugs and Public order while Harlow had more Shoplifting and Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Essex recorded fewer total crimes (22 vs 286).