Maine’s Low Crime Numbers: What the Stats Really Say
Maine stands out across the United States for having one of the lowest rates of violent crime. According to recent FBI statistics, only 100 people per 100,000 residents were involved in violent offenses during 2024.
In contrast, Washington, D.C. recorded more than a thousand violent incidents per 100,000 people, making it the highest in the country. Alaska followed, with about 724 violent crimes per 100,000 residents—almost seven times the rate in Maine.
Violent Crime
| State | Violent Crimes per 100,000 |
|---|---|
| Maine | 100 |
| Washington, D.C. | >1,000 |
| Alaska | 724 |
Property Crime
Property crimes—like theft and burglary—also vary widely from state to state. Maine’s property crime rate was the fifth lowest nationwide, with 1,142 incidents per 100,000 people.
| State | Property Crimes per 100,000 |
|---|---|
| Idaho | 736 |
| New Mexico | 2,751 |
| Washington, D.C. | 3,693 |
These numbers help us understand where safety concerns are most pressing. They also show that while Maine enjoys a relatively calm environment, other regions face higher challenges in both violent and property crime.
Context Matters
When looking at data, it’s important to consider context—population density, economic factors, and local policing strategies all play a role. Numbers alone don’t tell the full story but they give a useful snapshot of community safety.
For those curious about how these figures are gathered, the FBI compiles reports from local law‑enforcement agencies. Independent groups then analyze and share the data, making it easier for people to compare states.
