Basingstoke vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.

Basingstoke

RG21 · Hampshire

373

crimes in April 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences148
  • Anti-social behaviour49
  • Criminal damage & arson35

Reading

RG30 · Reading

354

crimes in April 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences152
  • Anti-social behaviour44
  • Criminal damage & arson32

Reading has less crime — 354 vs 373 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Basingstoke and Reading recorded very similar overall crime levels in April 2026 — 373 and 354 incidents respectively. Both areas share a near-identical crime profile, with Violence & sexual offences dominating in each. Both areas are above the national average for recorded crime; the full 24-month reports break down the trends and outcomes in detail.

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Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.

Get the full Basingstoke report — £4.99 Get the full Reading report — £4.99
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Frequently asked questions

Is Basingstoke or Reading safer?

Based on April 2026 Police data, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Basingstoke — 354 vs 373 incidents. That is 5% fewer crimes. Basingstoke is above the national average.

What are the main differences in crime between Basingstoke and Reading?

Both areas share Violence & sexual offences as their top crime category. In April 2026, Basingstoke recorded 148 incidents of this type vs 152 in Reading. Total crime levels were broadly similar.

Compare other areas

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