South Portland, ME Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in South Portland, ME

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in South Portland is 16.1% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In South Portland, there were 43 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 157 per 100,000 individuals, 57.6% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 492 property crimes, amounting to 1793 per 100,000 residents, 8.3% lower than the U.S. average.

In the most recently reported crime year, South Portland 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.

In the most recent release, South Portland reported a property crime rate that closely aligns with the national average. In South Portland, there were 1793 reported property crimes, a figure consistent with the national average of 1954 per 100,000 individuals. This positions the area as maintaining a level of safety and security on par with the typical city. The harmonious statistics underscore a balanced commitment to community well-being, offering residents a sense of stability and peace in their surroundings.

Is South Portland a Safe Place to Live?

To get a feel for the safety of living in South Portland, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. South Portland presents a total crime rate that is 16% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, South Portland experiences an average of 1.47 daily crimes, comprising 0.12 violent incidents and 1.35 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in South Portland Increased Since Last Year?

Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in South Portland. 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 South Portland has increased by 31.1%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 23.2%, while property crime has increased by 39.8%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in South Portland.

Potential Causes for Crime in South Portland

In South Portland, the current unemployment rate stands at 3.4%, diverging from the national average of 4.7%. The availability of job opportunities is a pivotal factor influencing unemployment and underemployment rates. Communities where individuals contend with limited employment prospects or a preponderance of low-wage positions may witness elevated rates of joblessness and income inadequacy, which can contribute to heightened crime levels driven by financial insecurity. Conversely, areas characterized by robust employment rates often experience a reduction in overall South Portland crime rates.

In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in South Portland is $276,100, compared to a national average of $184,700.

Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In South Portland, the average monthly rent stands at $1,346, while the national average is $949 per month.

South Portland crime map