Basingstoke vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Basingstoke

RG23 · Hampshire

35

crimes in April 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences14
  • Burglary5
  • Public order5

Reading

RG2 · Reading

172

crimes in April 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences70
  • Shoplifting23
  • Other theft19

Basingstoke has less crime — 35 vs 172 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Reading recorded substantially more crime than Basingstoke in April 2026 — 172 incidents compared to 35, a 4.9x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Burglary (5) and Public order (5), while Reading has more Shoplifting (23) and Other theft (19). 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 April 2026 Police data, Basingstoke recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 35 vs 172 incidents. That is 80% fewer crimes. Basingstoke 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 April 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Burglary and Public order while Reading had more Shoplifting and Other theft. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (35 vs 172).

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