Crime and Pollution in Portland

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Portland are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 27 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Portland.

Crime Data in Portland

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Portland, Maine, is perceived as a city with a low level of crime. Residents feel largely safe, especially during the daytime.

Despite some concerns about minor crimes, the overall sentiment shows high confidence in personal safety both day and night.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes, such as theft or vandalism, are not seen as significant issues in Portland, with residents expressing a low level of worry about such incidents.
  • Drug-Related IssuesThere is a mild level of concern about drug-related activities, which indicates that while the problem exists, it is not overwhelming for the residents.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes are not a major concern in Portland, with very low concern levels about assault or robbery, contributing to a secure environment overall.
  • Public SafetyResidents of Portland predominantly feel secure when alone during the day, and the level of safety remains reassuring at night as compared to other urban areas.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsThere is some apprehension about the perception of crime increasing, but this does not significantly detract from the general feeling of safety in the city.
  • Specific FearsSpecific fears, such as being mugged or insulted, are minimal among Portland's residents, with a marked decline in worry about becoming a victim of crime based on racial or ethnic identity.
Worldwide
United States

Crime Rankings

Portland ranks 17th on the Crime rankings in United States.
The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Portland

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Portland boasts excellent air quality with low levels of particulate matter, making it a comfortable city to spend time in and promoting a healthy environment.

Residents express high satisfaction with the air quality, which is a notable asset for the city's livability.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The PM2.5 levels are exceptionally low in Portland, posing no significant health risks and contributing to the city's clean air reputation.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)Similarly, PM10 levels are nearly negligible, reflecting a pollution-free urban environment conducive to well-being.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is relatively mild, not posing a significant disruption to the daily life of residents.

Garbage disposal and waste management practices are well-regarded, with high satisfaction scores from the public indicating efficient systems.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionPortland residents report a high level of satisfaction with garbage disposal services, reflecting well-maintained and clean public and residential spaces.
  • Noise and Light PollutionNoise and light pollution are manageable and do not significantly impact the quality of life, underscoring the serene living conditions in Portland.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

The extensive green spaces in Portland are a highlight, providing recreational and environmental benefits that enhance the city's appeal.

Portland is acclaimed for its superior drinking water quality and accessibility, a critical aspect of its high environmental standards.

  • Green and Parks QualityGreen spaces and parks are an integral part of Portland's charm, offering residents ample recreational areas and contributing to urban biodiversity.
  • Drinking Water QualityPortland boasts some of the highest quality drinking water, easily accessible and pure, reassuring residents of their city's environmental soundness.
Worldwide
United States

Pollution Rankings

Portland ranks 34th on the Pollution rankings in United States.
The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Pollution Rankings