Basingstoke vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Basingstoke

RG23 · Hampshire

31

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences9
  • Other theft5
  • Anti-social behaviour5

Reading

RG31 · Reading

113

crimes in February 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences34
  • Shoplifting31
  • Anti-social behaviour15

Basingstoke has less crime — 31 vs 113 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Reading recorded substantially more crime than Basingstoke in February 2026 — 113 incidents compared to 31, a 3.6x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Other theft (5), while Reading has more Shoplifting (31). 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, Basingstoke recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 31 vs 113 incidents. That is 73% 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 February 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Other theft while Reading had more Shoplifting. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (31 vs 113).

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