Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
SS6 · Essex
100
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
SS3 · Southend-on-Sea
104
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
Rayleigh has less crime — 100 vs 104 incidents in February 2026.
Rayleigh and Southend-on-Sea recorded very similar overall crime levels in February 2026 — 100 and 104 incidents respectively. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Rayleigh sees higher rates of Drugs (11) and Shoplifting (11), while Southend-on-Sea has more Burglary (11) and Other theft (11). Both areas sit below the national average for recorded crime — a positive sign for either location.
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, Rayleigh recorded fewer crimes than Southend-on-Sea — 100 vs 104 incidents. That is 4% fewer crimes. Rayleigh is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Rayleigh saw higher rates of Drugs and Shoplifting while Southend-on-Sea had more Burglary and Other theft. Overall, Rayleigh recorded fewer total crimes (100 vs 104).