Old Orchard Beach, ME Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Old Orchard Beach, ME

The Old Orchard Beach crime rates are 36.2% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 15 violent crimes in Old Orchard Beach (162 per 100,000 people), which is 56.1% lower than the national average and there were a total of 122 property crimes (1320 per 100,000 residents) which is 32.5% lower than average.

During the most recently reported crime year, Old Orchard Beach experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Old Orchard Beach?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Old Orchard Beach residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 6 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 17% of Old Orchard Beach residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 83% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Old Orchard Beach a Safe Place to Live?

Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Old Orchard Beach a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Old Orchard Beach crime rate is 36% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.38 crimes per day - 0.04 violent crimes and 0.33 property crimes.

Has Crime in Old Orchard Beach Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Old Orchard Beach. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Old Orchard Beach has decreased by 5.5%. Violent crimes have decreased by 25%, while property crimes have decreased by 2.4%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Old Orchard Beach

Limited employment opportunities or a prevalence of low-wage jobs can result in higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. Regions where individuals grapple with joblessness or meager wages may exhibit greater vulnerability to an uptick in crime due to financial instability. While areas that have strong employment rates, often will see a reduction in overall crime. Old Orchard Beach, for instance, reports an unemployment rate of 2.3%, which differs from the national average of 4.7%.

In Old Orchard Beach, 87.5% of residents have graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of a community can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Old Orchard Beach stands at $219,300, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Old Orchard Beach crime map