Is Kittery or Portland Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Kittery is safer than Portland (Safety Score 65/100 vs 23/100), with a total crime rate of 1,233 per 100,000 versus 2,746 for Portland — 55% lower. Kittery has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Kittery has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Portland is 6.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Kittery — 2-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Kittery, ME
Portland, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Kittery | Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 1,232.9 | 2,745.6 | -1,512.8 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 54.4 | 266.9 | -212.5 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 7.2 | -7.2 |
| Rape Rate | 18.1 | 41.8 | -23.7 |
| Robbery Rate | 9.1 | 50.5 | -41.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 27.2 | 167.4 | -140.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,178.5 | 2,478.7 | -1,300.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 9.1 | 145.7 | -136.7 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,133.2 | 2,177.2 | -1,044.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 36.3 | 155.8 | -119.6 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kittery or Portland safer?
Kittery is safer with a total crime rate of 1,233 per 100K vs 2,746 for Portland — a 55% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Kittery has a violent crime rate of 54.4 per 100K while Portland has 266.9. Kittery has lower violent crime.
About Kittery, ME
Kittery, Maine, a coastal town bordering New Hampshire, is home to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, established in 1800. Its population of around 15,000 residents enjoys proximity to both urban amenities and scenic ocean views. With a safety score of 65/100 and a population coverage of 11,031, Kittery has a total crime rate of 1,232.9 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.