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

RG4 · Reading

51

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

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

Basingstoke has less crime — 31 vs 51 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Reading recorded notably higher crime than Basingstoke in February 2026 — 51 vs 31 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Other theft (5), while Reading has more Vehicle crime (9). Both areas sit below the national average for recorded crime — a positive sign for either location.

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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 51 incidents. That is 39% 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 Vehicle crime. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (31 vs 51).

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