Oakland, ME Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Oakland, ME

When we analyze the latest crime report, the Oakland crime rate is 62.4% lower than the national average. These incidents are classified into two primary categories: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. Whereas property crimes encompass theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In the case of Oakland, there were 6 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 95 per 100,000 individuals, 74.3% lower than the national average. Additionally, Oakland recorded 49 property crimes, amounting to 778 per 100,000 residents, 60.2% lower than the U.S. average.

With only 95 incidents per 100,000 people, Oakland boasts an exceptionally low rate of violent crimes, positioning it as one of the safest cities in the United States. Given these low violent crime rates, Oakland has become an appealing destination for individuals in search of a secure and welcoming place to establish their new home.

In the most recently reported crime year, Oakland registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.

Is Oakland a Safe Place to Live?

To determine if Oakland is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Oakland has a total crime rate that is 62% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 0.15 daily crimes (0.02 violent daily crimes and 0.13 daily property crimes) in Oakland.

Has Crime in Oakland Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Oakland. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Oakland has increased by 22.2%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 100%, while property crime has increased by 16.7%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Oakland.

Potential Causes for Crime in Oakland

Oakland has a poverty rate of 18.8, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.

If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Oakland crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Oakland has an unemployment rate of 1.7%, compared to a national average of 4.7%.

Oakland has a population density of 429.9 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 90.6 people per square mile. High population density cities are often large urban hubs teeming with diverse economic opportunities. Within these environments, income disparities can become pronounced, leading to higher poverty levels. This economic divide may contribute to an uptick in property crimes and, occasionally, violent crimes. In contrast, areas characterized by low population density typically exhibit lower Oakland crime rates.

Oakland crime map