Newbury vs Reading — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Newbury

RG20 · West Berkshire

123

crimes in February 2026

Near national average

  • Violence & sexual offences42
  • Criminal damage & arson17
  • Anti-social behaviour14

Reading

RG4 · Reading

51

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences25
  • Vehicle crime9
  • Anti-social behaviour7

Reading has less crime — 51 vs 123 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Newbury recorded notably higher crime than Reading in February 2026 — 123 vs 51 incidents. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Newbury sees higher rates of Criminal damage & arson (17), while Reading has more Vehicle crime (9). 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 February 2026 Police data, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Newbury — 51 vs 123 incidents. That is 59% 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 February 2026, Newbury saw higher rates of Criminal damage & arson while Reading had more Vehicle crime. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (51 vs 123).

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