Basingstoke vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Basingstoke

RG22 · Hampshire

151

crimes in February 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences63
  • Anti-social behaviour14
  • Burglary12

Reading

RG4 · Reading

51

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences25
  • Vehicle crime9
  • Anti-social behaviour7

Reading has less crime — 51 vs 151 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Basingstoke recorded substantially more crime than Reading in February 2026 — 151 incidents compared to 51, a 3.0x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Burglary (12), while Reading has more Vehicle crime (9). Both areas sit near the national average, with modest differences in their overall safety profile.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Basingstoke or Reading safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Basingstoke — 51 vs 151 incidents. That is 66% fewer crimes. Reading is also below the national average for crime.

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

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Burglary while Reading had more Vehicle crime. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (51 vs 151).

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