Is East Lansing or South Portland Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, South Portland is safer than East Lansing (Safety Score 59/100 vs 58/100), with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100,000 versus 1,440 for East Lansing — 0% lower. East Lansing has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where South Portland has a 100% lower rate.
East Lansing — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
South Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
East Lansing, MI
South Portland, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | East Lansing | South Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,440.4 | 1,433.3 | +7.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 219.9 | 63.1 | +156.8 |
| Murder Rate | 4.0 | 0.0 | +4.0 |
| Rape Rate | 37.6 | 7.4 | +30.2 |
| Robbery Rate | 13.9 | 18.6 | -4.7 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 164.5 | 37.1 | +127.3 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,220.5 | 1,370.2 | -149.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 63.4 | 81.7 | -18.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 984.7 | 1,173.4 | -188.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 172.4 | 115.1 | +57.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is East Lansing or South Portland safer?
South Portland is safer with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100K vs 1,440 for East Lansing — a 0% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
East Lansing has a violent crime rate of 219.9 per 100K while South Portland has 63.1. South Portland has lower violent crime.
About East Lansing, MI
East Lansing, Michigan, home to Michigan State University, is a vibrant college town in the southern Lower Peninsula. Its population is largely young adults, and the city's culture is deeply intertwined with university life, including the Spartans' athletic traditions. With a safety score of 58/100 and a population coverage of 50,472, East Lansing has a total crime rate of 1,440.4 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.