Is Augusta or Portland Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Portland is safer than Augusta (Safety Score 23/100 vs 6/100), with a total crime rate of 2,746 per 100,000 versus 4,341 for Augusta — 37% lower. Augusta has higher rates in 3 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Augusta has a 79% lower rate.
Note: Portland is 3.6x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Augusta — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Augusta, ME
Portland, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Augusta | Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,341.5 | 2,745.6 | +1,595.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 250.5 | 266.9 | -16.5 |
| Murder Rate | 5.2 | 7.2 | -2.0 |
| Rape Rate | 125.2 | 41.8 | +83.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 10.4 | 50.5 | -40.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 109.6 | 167.4 | -57.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,091.0 | 2,478.7 | +1,612.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 234.8 | 145.7 | +89.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,668.3 | 2,177.2 | +1,491.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 187.9 | 155.8 | +32.0 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Augusta or Portland safer?
Portland is safer with a total crime rate of 2,746 per 100K vs 4,341 for Augusta — a 37% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Augusta has a violent crime rate of 250.5 per 100K while Portland has 266.9. Augusta has lower violent crime.
About Augusta, ME
Augusta, Maine, the state capital, sits along the Kennebec River, a historic waterway once vital for logging. With a population of around 19,000, it's a small city, home to the Maine State Museum and numerous government buildings. With a safety score of 6/100 and a population coverage of 19,164, Augusta has a total crime rate of 4,341.5 per 100,000 residents.
About Portland, ME
Portland, Maine, a coastal city with a deep maritime history, is the most populous city in the state. Its working waterfront and vibrant arts scene reflect its heritage and modern demographic mix. With a safety score of 23/100 and a population coverage of 69,310, Portland has a total crime rate of 2,745.6 per 100,000 residents.