Reading vs Reading — 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

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 727 incidents in February 2026.

What the data shows

Reading recorded substantially more crime than Reading in February 2026 — 727 incidents compared to 51, a 14.3x difference. The crime profiles diverge meaningfully: Reading sees higher rates of Shoplifting (163) and Public order (64), while Reading has more Vehicle crime (9) and Anti-social behaviour (7). Reading sits above the national average for recorded crime while Reading is below — a significant gap for anyone weighing up the two.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Reading or Reading safer?

Based on February 2026 Police data, Reading recorded fewer crimes than Reading — 51 vs 727 incidents. That is 93% fewer crimes. Reading is also below the national average for crime.

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

The main difference lies in crime type. In February 2026, Reading saw higher rates of Shoplifting and Public order while Reading had more Vehicle crime and Anti-social behaviour. Overall, Reading recorded fewer total crimes (51 vs 727).

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