Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
RG21 · Hampshire
351
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
RG30 · Reading
290
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Reading has less crime — 290 vs 351 incidents in February 2026.
Basingstoke saw somewhat more crime than Reading in February 2026 (351 vs 290 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Shoplifting (46), while Reading has more Public order (30). 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, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Basingstoke — 290 vs 351 incidents. That is 17% fewer crimes. Basingstoke is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Reading had more Public order. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (290 vs 351).