Reading, PA Home Security Guide

Detailed crime statistics, neighborhood safety scores, and local security companies for Reading. Population: 95,112 residents.

Total Crime Rate

45 per 1,000

Violent Crime

9.01 per 1,000

Property Crime

36 per 1,000

Higher Than Average Crime

Reading has a crime rate 64% higher than the Pennsylvania state average. A home security system is strongly recommended.

44

Moderate

Safety Score

Protect Your Reading Home

Given the area's crime rates, a monitored security system is highly recommended

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Reading Crime Statistics (2024)

Violent Crime

9.01 per 1,000
Total Incidents 857
Murder 10
Rape 48
Robbery 218
Aggravated Assault 581

Property Crime

36.00 per 1,000
Total Incidents 3,423
Burglary 548
Theft 2,156
Vehicle Theft 719

Source: FBI Uniform Crime Report. Crime rates are expressed per 1,000 residents.

Your Chance of Being a Victim in Reading

any crime

1 in 22

violent crime

1 in 111

property crime

1 in 28

motor vehicle_theft

1 in 132

Reading Neighborhoods

Safest Neighborhoods

Wyomissing border

Safety: 76/100

Hampden Heights

Safety: 68/100

Glenside

Safety: 66/100

Popular Neighborhoods

Pagoda area

Safety: 42/100

Hillside neighborhood below the famous Reading Pagoda with views of the city

West Reading border

Safety: 62/100

Shillington border

Safety: 64/100

Higher Risk Areas

Center City

Safety: 12/100

Oakbrook

Safety: 16/100

Southeast Reading

Safety: 18/100

Security Companies Serving Reading

No local security companies found near Reading. These national providers serve the area:

Security Companies Serving Reading

ADT Security

BBB: A

Vivint Smart Home

BBB: B+

SimpliSafe

BBB: A+

Most Common Crimes in Reading

1 Theft/larceny (22.67 per 1,000)
2 Motor vehicle theft (7.56 per 1,000)
3 Aggravated assault (6.11 per 1,000)
4 Burglary (5.76 per 1,000)
5 Robbery (2.29 per 1,000)

Security Recommendations for Reading

Essential

Video doorbell
Motion-sensor exterior lights
Deadbolt locks on all doors
Security system with 24/7 monitoring

Recommended

Security cameras (front, back, driveway)
Smart locks
Window and door sensors
GPS tracker for vehicles

Nice to Have

Smart garage door opener
Interior cameras
Glass break sensors

Reading Area Codes & Zip Codes

Area Codes

610484

Zip Codes

1960119602196041960519606196071960819611

Frequently Asked Questions About Reading Home Security

Is Reading PA safe?

Reading has elevated crime rates at 45.0 per 1,000 residents. The Wyomissing border, Hampden Heights, and Glenside are the safest neighborhoods.

What is the crime rate in Reading?

Reading's 2024 crime rate is 45.0 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime is 9.01 per 1,000 and property crime is 36.0 per 1,000.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Reading?

The Wyomissing border, Hampden Heights, and Glenside are the safest. West Reading and Shillington border areas also offer above-average safety.

What are the most common crimes in Reading?

Theft and larceny lead at 22.67 per 1,000. Motor vehicle theft (7.56 per 1,000) and aggravated assault (6.11 per 1,000) are also major concerns.

Do I need a home security system in Reading?

A monitored security system is strongly recommended in Reading. With elevated crime across categories, comprehensive security with cameras, sensors, and monitoring is a wise investment.

Do I need an alarm permit in Reading?

Reading may require alarm registration. Contact the Reading Police Department for current alarm permit requirements and false alarm policies.

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Reading's crime rates make home security a smart investment. Compare your options.

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