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Portland, ME vs South Portland, ME Crime Comparison

Side-by-side crime rates, safety scores, and trends based on FBI data.

Full report: Portland crime rate · South Portland crime rate

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Is Portland, ME or South Portland, ME Safer?

According to crimebycity.com's analysis of FBI data, South Portland, ME is safer than Portland, ME (Safety Score 59/100 vs 24/100), with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100,000 versus 2,746 for Portland, ME — 48% lower. Portland has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.

The biggest difference is in murder, where South Portland has a 100% lower rate.

Note: Portland is 2.6x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.

Quiz: which of these is SAFER than Portland, ME?

Portland — 5-Year Trend

Increasing Violent Flat Property Flat Total

South Portland — 5-Year Trend

Decreasing Violent Decreasing Property Decreasing Total

Portland, ME

Portland, ME
Safety Score 24/100
Coverage 69,310
Total Crime Rate 2,745.6
Category Wins 0/7

South Portland, ME

South Portland, ME
Safety Score 59/100
Coverage 26,931
Total Crime Rate 1,433.3
Category Wins 7/7

Detailed Crime Rate Comparison

Crime Type Portland South Portland Difference
Total Crime Rate 2,745.6 1,433.3 +1,312.4
Violent Crime Rate 266.9 63.1 +203.8
Murder Rate 7.2 0.0 +7.2
Rape Rate 41.8 7.4 +34.4
Robbery Rate 50.5 18.6 +31.9
Aggravated Assault Rate 167.4 37.1 +130.2
Property Crime Rate 2,478.7 1,370.2 +1,108.6
Burglary Rate 145.7 81.7 +64.0
Larceny-Theft Rate 2,177.2 1,173.4 +1,003.8
Motor Vehicle Theft Rate 155.8 115.1 +40.7

All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR.

Moving from Portland, ME to South Portland, ME?

The Moving Checklist Planner turns your move-in date into a dated checklist, packing inventory and budget — seven tabs for Google Sheets or Excel, $12 once.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Portland or South Portland safer?

South Portland, ME is safer with a total crime rate of 1,433 per 100K vs 2,746 for Portland, ME — a 48% difference.

How do violent crime rates compare?

Portland has a violent crime rate of 266.9 per 100K while South Portland has 63.1. South Portland 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 24/100 and a population coverage of 69,310, Portland has a total crime rate of 2,745.6 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.

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