Essex vs Harlow — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Essex

CM11 · Essex

22

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences13
  • Drugs3
  • Public order2

Harlow

CM19 · Essex

166

crimes in February 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences67
  • Anti-social behaviour26
  • Criminal damage & arson23

Essex has less crime — 22 vs 166 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Harlow recorded substantially more crime than Essex in February 2026 — 166 incidents compared to 22, a 7.5x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Essex sees higher rates of Drugs (3) and Public order (2), while Harlow has more Anti-social behaviour (26) and Criminal damage & arson (23). Both areas sit near the national average, with modest differences in their overall safety profile.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Essex or Harlow safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Essex recorded fewer crimes than Harlow — 22 vs 166 incidents. That is 87% fewer crimes. Essex is also below the national average for crime.

What are the main differences in crime between Essex and Harlow?

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Essex saw higher rates of Drugs and Public order while Harlow had more Anti-social behaviour and Criminal damage & arson. Overall, Essex recorded fewer total crimes (22 vs 166).

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