Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
RG21 · Hampshire
351
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
RG1 · Reading
727
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Basingstoke has less crime — 351 vs 727 incidents in February 2026.
Reading recorded notably higher crime than Basingstoke in February 2026 — 727 vs 351 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (42), while Reading has more Public order (64). Both areas are above the national average for recorded crime; the full 24-month reports break down the trends and outcomes in detail.
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, Basingstoke recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 351 vs 727 incidents. That is 52% fewer crimes. Reading is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Anti-social behaviour while Reading had more Public order. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (351 vs 727).