Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
CM18 · Essex
286
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
CB10 · Essex
24
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
Saffron Walden has less crime — 24 vs 286 incidents in February 2026.
Harlow recorded substantially more crime than Saffron Walden in February 2026 — 286 incidents compared to 24, a 11.9x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Harlow sees higher rates of Shoplifting (26) and Criminal damage & arson (26), while Saffron Walden has more Other theft (4) and Anti-social behaviour (3). Harlow sits above the national average for recorded crime while Saffron Walden is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.
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, Saffron Walden recorded fewer crimes than Harlow — 24 vs 286 incidents. That is 92% fewer crimes. Saffron Walden is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Harlow saw higher rates of Shoplifting and Criminal damage & arson while Saffron Walden had more Other theft and Anti-social behaviour. Overall, Saffron Walden recorded fewer total crimes (24 vs 286).