Is Bangor or South Portland Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, South Portland is safer than Bangor (Safety Score 59/100 vs 6/100), with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100,000 versus 4,399 for Bangor — 67% lower. Bangor has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where South Portland has a 100% lower rate.
Bangor — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
South Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Bangor, ME
South Portland, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Bangor | South Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,399.0 | 1,433.3 | +2,965.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 161.4 | 63.1 | +98.3 |
| Murder Rate | 15.8 | 0.0 | +15.8 |
| Rape Rate | 22.2 | 7.4 | +14.7 |
| Robbery Rate | 50.6 | 18.6 | +32.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 72.8 | 37.1 | +35.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 4,237.6 | 1,370.2 | +2,867.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 310.2 | 81.7 | +228.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,842.0 | 1,173.4 | +2,668.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 85.5 | 115.1 | -29.7 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bangor or South Portland safer?
South Portland is safer with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100K vs 4,399 for Bangor — a 67% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Bangor has a violent crime rate of 161.4 per 100K while South Portland has 63.1. South Portland has lower violent crime.
About Bangor, ME
Bangor, a city on the Penobscot River, is the third most populous in Maine. Known as the birthplace of Stephen King, it serves as a regional hub for healthcare and education in eastern Maine. With a safety score of 6/100 and a population coverage of 31,598, Bangor has a total crime rate of 4,399.0 per 100,000 residents.
About South Portland, ME
South Portland, Maine, a coastal city across the harbor from Portland, is home to Bug Light Park, a popular spot for its picturesque lighthouse. Its population of over 26,000 residents reflects a mix of residential areas and commercial districts. With a safety score of 59/100 and a population coverage of 26,931, South Portland has a total crime rate of 1,433.3 per 100,000 residents.