Chigwell’s crime rates are notably lower than the average for Essex. Data indicates that Chigwell, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within Epping Forest, experiences a crime rate of 67.2 incidents per 1,000 residents. This contrasts sharply with the average crime rate for the United Kingdom, which stands at 91.6 per 1,000 residents. Furthermore, the crime rate in nearby Redbridge is considerably higher, at 98.2 per 1,000, while Loughton reports a rate of 85.9 per 1,000. Chigwell Row and Buckhurst Hill, also nearby, exhibit lower rates at 56.0 and 55.9 per 1,000 respectively, but still remain higher than Chigwell itself.
This difference suggests that Chigwell is generally a safer place to live than many other areas within Essex and across the UK. The safety score for Chigwell is 83 out of 100, significantly higher than the UK average of 79. This score provides a further indication of the area's relative safety. It’s worth noting that safety scores are calculated using various factors and offer a broader perspective beyond just crime statistics.
To put these figures into perspective, a crime rate of 67.2 per 1,000 means that for every 1,000 residents in Chigwell, approximately 67 crimes are reported. While this number isn't insignificant, it’s considerably less than the average across the UK and in more densely populated areas like Redbridge. The lower crime rate, coupled with the high safety score, contributes to Chigwell’s reputation as a desirable and relatively secure place to reside. Understanding these comparative statistics allows residents and potential newcomers to gain a clearer picture of the area’s safety profile. It's important to remember that crime statistics are based on reported incidents and may not capture the full picture of safety within a community.