Reading vs Thatcham — Crime Comparison 2026

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

Reading

RG1 · Reading

727

crimes in February 2026

Above national average

  • Violence & sexual offences218
  • Shoplifting163
  • Public order64

Thatcham

RG19 · West Berkshire

73

crimes in February 2026

Below national average

  • Violence & sexual offences39
  • Shoplifting11
  • Anti-social behaviour5

Thatcham has less crime — 73 vs 727 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Reading recorded substantially more crime than Thatcham in February 2026 — 727 incidents compared to 73, a 10.0x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Reading sees higher rates of Public order (64), while Thatcham has more Anti-social behaviour (5). Reading sits above the national average for recorded crime while Thatcham is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Reading or Thatcham safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Thatcham recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 73 vs 727 incidents. That is 90% fewer crimes. Thatcham is also below the national average for crime.

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

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Reading saw higher rates of Public order while Thatcham had more Anti-social behaviour. Overall, Thatcham recorded fewer total crimes (73 vs 727).

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