Maine, often romanticized for its picturesque landscapes and quaint coastal towns, also faces its share of urban challenges, particularly in certain cities with elevated crime rates. This article delves into the top 10 most dangerous cities in Maine, providing a statistical analysis to illuminate the less idyllic aspects of these locations.
1. Augusta
Population: 18,653
Violent Crimes Per 100k: (Not specified)
Property Crimes Per 100k: (Not specified)
Maine’s capital, Augusta, leads this list. Despite efforts to revitalize its downtown, the city contends with high instances of robbery, assault, violent crime, burglary, and car thefts.
2. Houlton
Population: 6,088 (2021)
Violent Crime Rate: 1.64 per 1,000 residents
Property Crime Rate: 32.69 per 1,000 residents
Houlton, located near the Canadian border, experiences elevated larceny and aggravated assault cases. Despite its strategic location, the town faces rising crime rates.
3. Waterville
Population: 15,959 (2021)
Violent Crime Rate: 2.19 per 1,000 residents
Property Crime Rate: 41.17 per 1,000 residents
Waterville, a college town, grapples with high property crime rates, which are nearly four times the Maine state average.
4. Biddeford
Population: (Not specified)
Violent Crimes Per 100k: (Not specified)
Property Crimes Per 100k: (Not specified)
Biddeford, a coastal community, is experiencing a rise in crime rates alongside its population growth. Property crimes, primarily larceny, are a significant concern.
5. Auburn
Population: 23,455
Violent Crimes Per 100k: (Not specified)
Property Crimes Per 100k: (Not specified)
Once known for its shoe industry, Auburn now grapples with a high crime rate, particularly in property crime, which is about three times the state level.
6. Bangor
Population: 32,179
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 158
Property Crimes Per 100k: 3,750
Bangor, known for its attractions, faces elevated crime rates with notable figures in car thefts and robberies.
7. Skowhegan
Population: 8,202 – 8,598 (2021)
Violent Crime Rate: 1.51 – 1.70 per 1,000 residents
Property Crime Rate: 25.70 – 2,755 per 1,000 residents
Skowhegan, despite its rich cultural heritage, reports a higher-than-average property crime rate.
8. Lewiston
Population: 36,186
Violent Crimes Per 100k: 268
Property Crimes Per 100k: 1,765
Lewiston, known for its cultural diversity, has recently seen a surge in crime rates, particularly in violent crimes and property crimes.
9. Presque Isle
Population: 8,777 – 8,937 (2021)
Violent Crime Rate: 1.94 per 1,000 residents
Property Crime Rate: 15.84 per 1,000 residents
Presque Isle, balancing big-city amenities with a small-town feel, faces a crime rate higher than the Maine average but lower than the national average.
10. Sanford
Population: 21,272 – 22,135 (2021)
Violent Crime Rate: 1.81 per 1,000 residents
Property Crime Rate: 23.09 per 1,000 residents
Sanford, a city with promising schools and job opportunities, contends with high rates of burglary, property crime, and total crime.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Maine
When visiting Maine, it’s wise to exercise caution, especially in these cities. Avoid flashing jewelry or cash, keep valuables out of sight in your car, choose well-lit gas stations at night, be prepared for winter weather, and enjoy the local cuisine like lobster rolls safely.
Conclusion
While Maine is generally known for its safety and scenic beauty, these cities highlight the challenges some communities face with crime. It’s crucial to approach these areas with awareness and caution, and equally important to acknowledge ongoing efforts to improve socio-economic conditions and public safety in these regions.