Hungerford Crime Rate January 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Hungerford's crime profile in January 2026 continued to reflect its position as a relatively low-crime market town within West Berkshire. With a crime rate of 4.3 per 1,000 residents—36.8% below the UK average—the area maintained a profile consistent with its rural-adjacent character. Violence and sexual offences dominated the monthly tally, accounting for 64% of all reported crimes, a proportion that, while higher than the UK average for this category, remains lower than the national trend for violent crime in urban centres. Anti-social behaviour, the second most common category, fell to 8% of total crimes, well below the UK average of 0.9 per 1,000. Seasonal factors likely contributed to the pattern, with post-holiday periods typically associated with reduced retail footfall and shorter daylight hours limiting outdoor activity. The absence of significant property crime increases, despite a UK-wide rise in vehicle-related offences, may be attributed to Hungerford's compact built-up area and limited commuter traffic. This aligns with the broader trend in rural and semi-rural towns where property crime rates often remain below national averages. The spike in violence and sexual offences, however, suggests that localised factors—such as the town's role as a regional hub or seasonal events—may temporarily elevate certain crime types. While the overall rate remains stable, the month-on-month volatility in specific categories highlights the need for continued monitoring of trends that could indicate broader shifts in community dynamics or policing effectiveness.

Violence and sexual offences surged by 166.7% in January, jumping from six to sixteen incidents. This spike, while not uncommon in post-holiday periods, contrasts with the area's usual low violent crime profile. Shoplifting and robbery both increased from zero to one incident each, a shift that may reflect seasonal retail patterns or targeted activity. Anti-social behaviour, meanwhile, fell by 33.3%, a decline that aligns with Hungerford's generally low rates for this category. Violence and sexual offences in the area remain 8% above the UK average, a discrepancy that could stem from local factors such as the town's mix of rural and urban characteristics. The absence of property crime increases—despite a 46% UK-wide average for vehicle crime—suggests that Hungerford's compact built-up area may limit opportunities for such offences.

Hungerford's crime rate in January 2026 rose to 4.3 per 1,000 residents, marking a 47.1% increase from the previous month's rate of 2.9. This shift, while notable, remains well below the UK average of 6.8. On a daily basis, the area saw approximately one reported crime per day over the month, a figure that, while low, reflects a localised pattern distinct from national trends. When scaled to the population, the monthly exposure translates to one crime for roughly every 234 residents—a rate that underscores the area's generally low crime profile. This monthly aggregate, though modest, invites consideration of factors such as seasonal transitions or localised events that may influence reporting patterns. The increase from December to January contrasts with the typical post-holiday lull, suggesting potential shifts in community activity or policing focus during this period.