Reading Crime Rate

Reading has a crime rate of 107.5 per 1,000 residents annually, based on data from February 2025 to January 2026. This figure is 17.9% above the UK average of 91.2 per 1,000. While overall crime has remained stable, with a slight increase of 0.6% year-on-year, certain crime categories show more significant fluctuations. Understanding these trends and the specific types of crimes prevalent in Reading is crucial for residents and visitors alike.

Reading's demographics and location contribute to its crime statistics. As a major town with a diverse population and significant retail and commercial activity, it attracts both residents and visitors, creating opportunities for various types of crime. The town's transport links and proximity to larger urban centres also influence crime patterns. The combination of a dense urban environment and a vibrant economy contributes to the challenges in maintaining safety and security for all residents. Understanding these factors is key to developing effective crime prevention strategies.

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crime in Reading, accounting for 37.8 per 1,000 residents, 35.1% of all recorded crimes. This is 17% above the UK average. Shoplifting is also a significant concern, with 15.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, 100% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour, while lower than the UK average, still represents a notable portion of crime with 11.0 incidents per 1,000. Property crime overall stands at 45.6 per 1,000, with burglary contributing 3.8 per 1,000, and vehicle crime at 5.5 per 1,000. These figures highlight areas where targeted preventative measures may be beneficial.

Crime in Reading has remained largely stable, showing a slight increase of 0.6% year-on-year. Monthly crime rates fluctuated throughout the period, peaking in August 2025 at 10.4 per 1,000 and reaching a low of 7.1 per 1,000 in February 2025. While some crime types, such as theft from the person, have decreased significantly (-27.9% YoY), others, like robbery, have increased (+15.7% YoY), indicating a complex and evolving crime landscape.

Compared to neighbouring local authorities, Reading's crime rate is higher than Wokingham (45.7 per 1,000) and Bracknell Forest (63.7 per 1,000), but lower than West Berkshire (66.7 per 1,000) and Windsor and Maidenhead (65.7 per 1,000). Within Reading itself, Caversham has a lower crime rate (49.1 per 1,000) compared to the Reading area overall (102.4 per 1,000), suggesting localised variations in crime risk.

Traditional CCTV systems often only record crime after it has occurred. Consider a proactive security system like scOS, which uses AI to detect threats at your property boundary, preventing crime before it happens. scOS’s DVLA vehicle verification instantly identifies fake plates, and its multi-camera intelligence watches your entire property simultaneously. The visible deterrence of a professional-grade system can often be enough to make a burglar reconsider, as they typically decide within 60 seconds. Reading's property crime rates, particularly burglary, highlight the value of a preventative approach to home security.

How To Keep Safe in Reading

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. When shopping, be vigilant against shoplifting, keeping bags and valuables secure. With vehicle crime on the rise (5.5 per 1,000), ensure your vehicle is locked and alarms are activated. Finally, be mindful of anti-social behaviour and report any incidents to the authorities.