Harlow Crime Rate

Introduction to Crime in Harlow

Harlow experiences an overall crime rate of 103.7 per 1,000 residents per year, positioning it slightly above the UK national average of 93.4 per 1,000. The area's safety score stands at 75 out of 100, which is comparable to the UK average of 78/100, suggesting a moderate level of safety. In terms of recent trends, Harlow's crime rate has remained stable, showing a minor decrease of 4.0% year-over-year. This introduction sets the stage for a more detailed examination of specific crime types, local trends, and comparisons with neighbouring areas to provide a comprehensive understanding of crime in Harlow.

About Harlow

Harlow, a prominent town and local authority district in Essex, is characterised by its planned new town origins, blending residential neighbourhoods with commercial and industrial zones. Its strategic location with good transport links, including a significant railway station, makes it a commuter hub and contributes to a transient population. The town centre features shopping facilities and some nightlife, which can influence crime patterns, particularly related to public order and anti-social behaviour. Economic factors, typical of many urban areas, can also play a role in the local crime landscape. Understanding these characteristics helps to provide context for Harlow's crime rate and safety score, reflecting the dynamics of a bustling urban environment.

Crime Type Breakdown in Harlow

The crime statistics for Harlow reveal that Violence and sexual offences are the most prevalent, accounting for 39.0% of all reported crimes with 3,969 incidents, equating to 40.4 per 1,000 residents. Following this, Anti-social behaviour constitutes 8.6% of crimes (875 incidents, 8.9 per 1,000), and Public order offences make up 8.5% (869 incidents, 8.8 per 1,000). These three categories represent the most significant challenges in the area.

Beyond these specific types, property-related crime is a key concern for residents and homeowners in Harlow. This broad category encompasses burglary, robbery, theft from person, criminal damage and arson, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, and other theft. Collectively, property crime in Harlow stands at 35.8 per 1,000 people per year, which is slightly higher than the UK average of 33.2 per 1,000. Specifically, vehicle crime accounts for 7.0% of total crimes (7.2 per 1,000), criminal damage and arson for 8.2% (8.5 per 1,000), and burglary for 2.3% (2.4 per 1,000). This indicates that while violent and public order offences are numerically higher, the risk to personal property remains a notable aspect of crime in the area. Residents should be aware of these figures to consider appropriate protective measures for their homes and belongings.

Crime Trends in Harlow

Harlow has experienced a stable crime trend over the past year, with a year-over-year decrease of 4.0% in total crimes. This indicates a consistent, albeit slightly improving, situation compared to the previous 12-month period. Examining the monthly data reveals some fluctuations; for instance, the crime rate per 1,000 residents was 8.5 in October 2024, dipped to 7.5 in February 2025, and then saw a peak in July 2025 at 9.6 before settling back to 8.4 in September 2025. These monthly variations suggest seasonal or periodic influences on crime activity, with higher rates observed during spring and summer months. For residents, a stable trend, even with minor dips, suggests that the overall risk environment has not significantly worsened, but remaining vigilant to monthly changes can help in understanding local safety dynamics.

Crime Comparisons with Nearby Areas

When considering the broader regional context, Harlow's crime statistics can be compared to several neighbouring areas. Epping Forest, Broxbourne, and East Hertfordshire are all generally considered to have lower crime rates, often characteristic of more rural or suburban settings. For example, Epping Forest typically reports lower incidents of property crime. In contrast, areas like Enfield, which is a London borough, and to some extent Brentwood and Welwyn Hatfield, may exhibit different crime profiles due to their varying urbanisation levels, population densities, and economic activities. Enfield, being a more densely populated urban area, might face challenges similar to or exceeding those in Harlow in certain crime categories. Brentwood and Welwyn Hatfield, while also commuter towns, can have distinct local factors influencing their crime rates. Understanding these comparisons helps residents contextualise Harlow's safety profile within the wider region, highlighting areas where it aligns with or diverges from its neighbours.

Protecting Your Property in Harlow

Given Harlow's property crime rate of 35.8 per 1,000 people per year, which is slightly above the UK average, residents may wish to consider robust home security solutions. Traditional CCTV systems often provide footage of a burglary after it has occurred, offering a reactive approach to security. However, if you are looking for proactive protection, systems like scOS offer an alternative that aims to prevent crime before it happens.

scOS, an AI-powered home security operating system, detects threats at your property boundary, rather than waiting for an intruder to gain entry. This multi-camera intelligence watches all cameras simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive surveillance. Professional-grade equipment signals serious protection, often deterring potential intruders who typically decide within 60 seconds whether to proceed. By focusing on prevention, scOS intervenes in real-time with autonomous responses like activating lights and engaging speakers, destroying the element of surprise that burglars rely on. While DIY systems have their place, a professional system like scOS offers a distinct advantage by actively stopping threats at your property line, rather than simply recording them for later review.