Is Phoenix or South Portland Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, South Portland is safer than Phoenix (Safety Score 59/100 vs 17/100), with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100,000 versus 3,125 for Phoenix — 54% lower. Phoenix has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where South Portland has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Phoenix is 61.7x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Phoenix — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
South Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Phoenix, AZ
South Portland, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Phoenix | South Portland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 3,125.4 | 1,433.3 | +1,692.1 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 800.0 | 63.1 | +736.9 |
| Murder Rate | 8.4 | 0.0 | +8.4 |
| Rape Rate | 64.3 | 7.4 | +56.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 181.6 | 18.6 | +163.1 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 545.3 | 37.1 | +508.2 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,325.3 | 1,370.2 | +955.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 317.2 | 81.7 | +235.5 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,582.1 | 1,173.4 | +408.8 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 426.0 | 115.1 | +310.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phoenix or South Portland safer?
South Portland is safer with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100K vs 3,125 for Phoenix — a 54% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Phoenix has a violent crime rate of 800.0 per 100K while South Portland has 63.1. South Portland has lower violent crime.
About Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, Arizona, the "Valley of the Sun," is a sprawling desert metropolis with a rich Native American heritage, including the Hohokam people. It's the fifth-largest city in the United States by population, experiencing rapid growth in recent decades. With a safety score of 17/100 and a population coverage of 1,662,809, Phoenix has a total crime rate of 3,125.4 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.