Basingstoke vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Basingstoke

RG24 · Hampshire

248

crimes in April 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences97
  • Anti-social behaviour39
  • Public order30

Reading

RG31 · Reading

114

crimes in April 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences38
  • Shoplifting34
  • Anti-social behaviour14

Reading has less crime — 114 vs 248 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Basingstoke recorded notably higher crime than Reading in April 2026 — 248 vs 114 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Basingstoke sees higher rates of Public order (30), while Reading has more Shoplifting (34). 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, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Basingstoke — 114 vs 248 incidents. That is 54% fewer crimes. Basingstoke is above the national average.

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 Public order while Reading had more Shoplifting. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (114 vs 248).

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