Is Austin or Portland Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Portland is safer than Austin (Safety Score 23/100 vs 11/100), with a total crime rate of 2,746 per 100,000 versus 3,709 for Austin — 26% lower. Austin has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in violent crime, where Portland has a 43% lower rate.
Note: Austin is 14.2x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Austin — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Austin, TX
Portland, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Austin | Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,709.4 | 2,745.6 | +963.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 467.5 | 266.9 | +200.6 |
| Murder Rate | 6.6 | 7.2 | -0.6 |
| Rape Rate | 67.6 | 41.8 | +25.8 |
| Robbery Rate | 85.4 | 50.5 | +34.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 307.2 | 167.4 | +139.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,241.9 | 2,478.7 | +763.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 445.2 | 145.7 | +299.4 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,198.1 | 2,177.2 | +20.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 598.6 | 155.8 | +442.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin or Portland safer?
Portland is safer with a total crime rate of 2,746 per 100K vs 3,709 for Austin — a 26% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Austin has a violent crime rate of 467.5 per 100K while Portland has 266.9. Portland has lower violent crime.
About Austin, TX
Austin, the "Live Music Capital of the World," is a rapidly growing city in Central Texas. Situated on the Colorado River, it's the state capital and home to a diverse population, including many young professionals drawn to its tech industry. With a safety score of 11/100 and a population coverage of 984,613, Austin has a total crime rate of 3,709.4 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.