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

RG4 · Reading

52

crimes in April 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences19
  • Anti-social behaviour10
  • Other theft7

Reading has less crime — 52 vs 168 incidents in April 2026.

What the data shows

Newbury recorded substantially more crime than Reading in April 2026 — 168 incidents compared to 52, a 3.2x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Newbury sees higher rates of Criminal damage & arson (21), while Reading has more Other theft (7). 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 — 52 vs 168 incidents. That is 69% fewer crimes. Reading is also below the national average for crime.

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 Other theft. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (52 vs 168).

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