Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
RG23 · Hampshire
31
crimes in February 2026
Below national average
RG1 · Reading
727
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Basingstoke has less crime — 31 vs 727 incidents in February 2026.
Reading recorded substantially more crime than Basingstoke in February 2026 — 727 incidents compared to 31, a 23.5x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Other theft (5) and Anti-social behaviour (5), while Reading has more Shoplifting (163) and Public order (64). Basingstoke is below the national average while Reading is above, making Basingstoke the safer choice on this measure.
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 — 31 vs 727 incidents. That is 96% fewer crimes. Basingstoke is also below the national average for crime.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Other theft and Anti-social behaviour while Reading had more Shoplifting and Public order. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (31 vs 727).