Newbury vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Newbury

RG20 · West Berkshire

168

crimes in April 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences65
  • Anti-social behaviour23
  • Criminal damage & arson21

Reading

RG2 · Reading

172

crimes in April 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences70
  • Shoplifting23
  • Other theft19

Newbury has less crime — 168 vs 172 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Newbury and Reading recorded very similar overall crime levels in April 2026 — 168 and 172 incidents respectively. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Newbury sees higher rates of Anti-social behaviour (23) and Criminal damage & arson (21), while Reading has more Shoplifting (23) and Other theft (19). 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, Newbury recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 168 vs 172 incidents. That is 2% fewer crimes.

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 Anti-social behaviour and Criminal damage & arson while Reading had more Shoplifting and Other theft. Overall, Newbury recorded fewer total crimes (168 vs 172).

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