Port Washington, WI Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Port Washington, WI

What overall crime grade does Port Washington receive?

Port Washington earns an overall crime grade of A — one of the strongest safety ratings a city can achieve. This grade reflects a crime environment that is significantly safer than the national average. With a population of approximately 11,881 residents and a population density of just 782 people per square mile, Port Washington benefits from the close-knit dynamics of a small lakeside community where neighbors tend to know one another and suspicious activity is more readily noticed and reported.

How does Port Washington's crime rate compare to national averages?

Port Washington's A-grade safety rating places it well above average when benchmarked against U.S. cities of similar size. Several socioeconomic indicators reinforce this standing: the city's unemployment rate of just 2.3% — far below the national average — and a poverty rate of only 6% are two of the strongest predictors of low crime levels. Research consistently shows that communities with low unemployment and low poverty experience fewer property and violent crimes. Port Washington's median household income of $71,029 further signals a stable, economically secure population, which correlates directly with its strong crime grade.

What types of crime are most common in Port Washington?

As is typical in small, economically stable communities with an A crime grade, property-related incidents — such as minor theft, vehicle break-ins, and occasional vandalism — represent the most frequently reported crime category in Port Washington. Violent crime is comparatively rare. The city's compact size (782 residents per square mile) and active community engagement mean that even minor incidents are quickly reported and addressed. Environmental and quality-of-life offenses, such as public disturbances, are most likely to occur during peak seasonal events near the harbor and downtown waterfront areas.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Port Washington?

Port Washington's overall A crime grade suggests that safety is strong across the city as a whole. Residential areas such as the West Main Street corridor and the Westport neighborhood are frequently cited by residents as quiet, family-friendly areas. The downtown waterfront district near the historic harbor sees higher foot traffic — particularly during summer festivals and events — which can bring a modest uptick in minor incidents, though it remains a generally safe area. Because Port Washington is a small city, no single neighborhood stands out as a high-crime zone; the A-grade rating reflects citywide conditions rather than isolated pockets of safety.

Is Port Washington a safe place to live?

By nearly every measurable indicator, yes. Port Washington's A overall crime grade, combined with a 2.3% unemployment rate, a 6% poverty rate, and a median household income of $71,029, paint the picture of a community where safety and economic stability reinforce each other. The median home value of $214,954 and median rent of $923 reflect a housing market that is accessible without the density pressures that often drive crime upward in larger metros. For families, retirees, and professionals, Port Washington consistently ranks as one of the safer communities in Ozaukee County and the broader Milwaukee metropolitan area.

Does Port Washington's population size affect its crime levels?

Absolutely. With just under 11,881 residents spread across a relatively low-density footprint of 782 people per square mile, Port Washington avoids many of the anonymity and overcrowding factors that drive crime in larger urban centers. Smaller populations tend to foster stronger social cohesion — residents are more likely to recognize strangers, report unusual activity, and participate in community watch programs. This dynamic is a key reason why Port Washington maintains its A crime grade year over year, and why both property crime and violent crime rates remain well below state and national benchmarks.

What can residents do to help Port Washington maintain its A crime grade?

Maintaining an A-level safety environment is a community effort. Residents can contribute by reporting suspicious activity promptly to the Port Washington Police Department, participating in neighborhood watch programs, and securing their properties with locks, lighting, and cameras. Given that property crime is the most common incident category in low-crime cities like Port Washington, simple preventive steps — locking vehicles, not leaving valuables visible, and lighting driveways — go a long way. Staying engaged with local crime map data also helps residents spot any emerging trends early, before minor patterns escalate.