Is Biddeford or Lewiston Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Lewiston is safer than Biddeford (Safety Score 47/100 vs 25/100), with a total crime rate of 1,773 per 100,000 versus 2,662 for Biddeford — 33% lower. Biddeford has higher rates in 3 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Lewiston has a 71% lower rate.
Biddeford — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Lewiston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Biddeford, ME
Lewiston, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Biddeford | Lewiston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,662.5 | 1,773.5 | +889.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 313.8 | 244.5 | +69.2 |
| Murder Rate | 9.0 | 2.6 | +6.4 |
| Rape Rate | 67.2 | 66.9 | +0.3 |
| Robbery Rate | 35.9 | 59.2 | -23.3 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 201.7 | 115.8 | +85.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,348.7 | 1,529.0 | +819.8 |
| Burglary Rate | 98.6 | 164.7 | -66.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,147.0 | 1,245.8 | +901.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 103.1 | 118.4 | -15.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Biddeford or Lewiston safer?
Lewiston is safer with a total crime rate of 1,773 per 100K vs 2,662 for Biddeford — a 33% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Biddeford has a violent crime rate of 313.8 per 100K while Lewiston has 244.5. Lewiston has lower violent crime.
About Biddeford, ME
Biddeford, a former mill town on the Saco River, showcases a vibrant arts scene amidst historic brick architecture. Roughly 22,000 residents inhabit this southern Maine city, with a notable Franco-American heritage. With a safety score of 25/100 and a population coverage of 22,310, Biddeford has a total crime rate of 2,662.5 per 100,000 residents.
About Lewiston, ME
Lewiston, Maine, a former mill town on the Androscoggin River, is known for its Franco-American heritage and the Bates College campus. It's Maine's second-largest city by population. With a safety score of 47/100 and a population coverage of 38,850, Lewiston has a total crime rate of 1,773.5 per 100,000 residents.