Basingstoke’s crime rate, specifically within the Basingstoke urban area (BUA) which has a population of 123,498, sits at 85.9 crimes per 1,000 residents. This is a key indicator when comparing it to other towns within Hampshire and the broader national picture. For context, the United Kingdom's average crime rate is 91.6 per 1,000 people. Therefore, Basingstoke demonstrates a slightly lower crime rate than the UK average.
To further understand the safety landscape, we also consider the safety score, which in Basingstoke’s case, is 78 out of 100. The UK average safety score is 79. A safety score of 78 suggests that Basingstoke is generally considered a reasonably safe place to live, though it's not quite as safe as the average town in the UK.
It’s important to remember that crime rates are complex and can be influenced by numerous factors, including population density, socioeconomic conditions, and reporting practices. Comparing Basingstoke’s crime rate to other towns in Hampshire would require a detailed analysis of their respective statistics, which is beyond the scope of this overview. However, the data provided clearly shows Basingstoke's position relative to the national average and provides a useful baseline for assessing its safety.
While these numbers offer a snapshot of Basingstoke’s safety, they shouldn’t be the sole determinant in your decision-making. Personal experiences and perceptions of safety can vary widely. Local news reports and community forums can provide additional insights, but always verify information with credible sources.