Side-by-side crime statistics from official UK Police data.
RG24 · Hampshire
230
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
RG30 · Reading
290
crimes in February 2026
Above national average
Basingstoke has less crime — 230 vs 290 incidents in February 2026.
Reading saw somewhat more crime than Basingstoke in February 2026 (290 vs 230 incidents). The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Shoplifting (24), while Reading has more Public order (30). Both areas are above the national average for recorded crime; the full 24-month reports break down the trends and outcomes in detail.
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 — 230 vs 290 incidents. That is 21% fewer crimes. Reading is above the national average.
The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Basingstoke saw higher rates of Shoplifting while Reading had more Public order. Overall, Basingstoke recorded fewer total crimes (230 vs 290).