Basingstoke vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Basingstoke

RG24 · Hampshire

230

crimes in February 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences88
  • Anti-social behaviour31
  • Shoplifting24

Reading

RG1 · Reading

727

crimes in February 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences218
  • Shoplifting163
  • Public order64

Basingstoke has less crime — 230 vs 727 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Reading recorded substantially more crime than Basingstoke in February 2026 — 727 incidents compared to 230, a 3.2x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (31), while Reading has more Public order (64). Both areas are above the national average for recorded crime; the full 24-month reports break down the trends and outcomes in detail.

Get a detailed crime report

Full reports cover 24 months of trends, ward breakdowns, outcome rates, and a detailed safety score — from £4.99.

Get the full Basingstoke report — £4.99 Get the full Reading report — £4.99
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Frequently asked questions

Is Basingstoke or Reading safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Basingstoke recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 230 vs 727 incidents. That is 68% fewer crimes. Reading is above the national average.

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 Anti-social behaviour while Reading had more Public order. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (230 vs 727).

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