Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
SS6 · Essex
100
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
SS9 · Southend-on-Sea
146
crimes in February 2026
Near national average
Rayleigh has less crime — 100 vs 146 incidents in February 2026.
Southend-on-Sea saw somewhat more crime than Rayleigh in February 2026 (146 vs 100 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Rayleigh sees higher rates of Drugs (11) and Shoplifting (11), while Southend-on-Sea has more Burglary (20) and Other theft (13). Both areas sit near the national average, with modest differences in their overall safety profile.
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 146 incidents. That is 32% 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 146).