Newbury vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Newbury

RG14 · West Berkshire

250

crimes in April 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences85
  • Anti-social behaviour43
  • Criminal damage & arson30

Reading

RG31 · Reading

114

crimes in April 2026

Near national average

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

Reading has less crime — 114 vs 250 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Newbury recorded notably higher crime than Reading in April 2026 — 250 vs 114 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Newbury sees higher rates of Criminal damage & arson (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 Newbury or Reading safer?

Based on April 2026 Police data, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Newbury — 114 vs 250 incidents. That is 54% fewer crimes. Newbury is above the national average.

What are the main differences in crime between Newbury and Reading?

The main difference lies in crime type. In April 2026, Newbury saw higher rates of Criminal damage & arson while Reading had more Shoplifting. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (114 vs 250).

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