Is Portland or Saco Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Saco is safer than Portland (Safety Score 68/100 vs 23/100), with a total crime rate of 1,159 per 100,000 versus 2,746 for Portland — 58% lower. Portland has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Saco has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Portland is 3.3x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Portland — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Saco — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Portland, ME
Saco, ME
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Portland | Saco | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,745.6 | 1,158.7 | +1,586.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 266.9 | 80.4 | +186.5 |
| Murder Rate | 7.2 | 0.0 | +7.2 |
| Rape Rate | 41.8 | 37.8 | +4.0 |
| Robbery Rate | 50.5 | 0.0 | +50.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 167.4 | 42.6 | +124.8 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,478.7 | 1,078.3 | +1,400.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 145.7 | 85.1 | +60.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,177.2 | 893.9 | +1,283.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 155.8 | 99.3 | +56.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portland or Saco safer?
Saco is safer with a total crime rate of 1,159 per 100K vs 2,746 for Portland — a 58% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Portland has a violent crime rate of 266.9 per 100K while Saco has 80.4. Saco has lower violent crime.
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.
About Saco, ME
Saco, Maine, a small city in York County, sits on the Saco River across from Biddeford. Known for its historic textile mills, the area experiences a significant tourist influx during summer months, drawn to attractions like Funtown Splashtown USA. With a safety score of 68/100 and a population coverage of 21,144, Saco has a total crime rate of 1,158.7 per 100,000 residents.