Portsmouth, NH Crime Map

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to understanding crime and safety in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. If you're seeking detailed insights, our Portsmouth crime map offers a clear, data-driven view of the city's safety landscape, helping residents and visitors alike make informed decisions. With an impressive overall crime grade of A (Very Safe) and an average crime score of 0.046, Portsmouth stands out as a secure community. Notably, 100% of the 13 neighborhoods analyzed earn an A grade, showcasing a remarkable consistency in safety across the city. Whether you're considering a move to this charming coastal town or simply exploring its historic streets, understanding the Portsmouth crime rate and neighborhood-specific data is essential. This guide dives deep into safe neighborhoods in Portsmouth, areas to be mindful of, and key trends shaping local safety.

Understanding Portsmouth's Safety Landscape

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, with a population of 97,455, is nestled in Rockingham County and boasts a population density of 528 per square mile. Known for its rich history, vibrant downtown, and scenic waterfront, the city also shines when it comes to safety. The Portsmouth crime map reveals an exceptionally low crime score of 0.046, earning the city an overall A grade for safety. This statistic reflects a community where safety is a priority, supported by effective local law enforcement and engaged residents. For those curious about broader crime trends, the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program provides national context to compare with local data. Additionally, factors like a median household income of $78,712 and a low unemployment rate of 1.6% contribute to a stable environment that often correlates with reduced crime rates. As we explore Portsmouth safety further, you'll see how these elements create a secure and welcoming community.

The demographic makeup of Portsmouth also plays a role in its safety profile. With a median age of 42 years and 61% of residents holding a college degree, the city attracts educated, stable households. A poverty rate of just 6.6% further supports the notion that socioeconomic stability underpins the low Portsmouth crime rate. Whether you're a family looking for a safe place to settle or a visitor planning a trip, understanding these broader factors alongside the Portsmouth crime map helps paint a full picture of what to expect.

Safest Neighborhoods in Portsmouth

When it comes to safe neighborhoods in Portsmouth, the data speaks volumes. All 13 neighborhoods analyzed boast an A grade or higher, but some stand out as particularly secure based on crime scores, population, and median income. These areas offer peace of mind for residents and are ideal for families, retirees, or anyone prioritizing safety. Let's take a closer look at the top five safest neighborhoods in Portsmouth, as highlighted by the Portsmouth crime map.

• Lafayette Park: With a stellar Crime Grade of A+ and a small, tight-knit population of 660, Lafayette Park is a gem. Its median income of $119,179 suggests a prosperous community where safety is paramount.
• Wibird Area: Earning an A grade, the Wibird Area houses 930 residents with a median income of $125,782. This neighborhood combines affluence with a low incidence of crime, making it a top choice for safety.
• Lincoln / Broad Street Area: Home to 574 residents, this area also secures an A grade. A median income of $112,273 reflects economic stability, further enhancing its reputation for Portsmouth safety.
• Christian Shore / Creek: With a population of 527 and a median income of $105,401, this A-grade neighborhood offers a quiet, secure environment perfect for those seeking tranquility.
• Goodwin Park: Rounding out the top five, Goodwin Park (population 1,098) holds an A grade with a median income of $85,356. It's a welcoming area with a strong safety profile.

These neighborhoods exemplify why Portsmouth consistently ranks high in safety metrics. Whether you're eyeing a home near the waterfront or closer to downtown, the Portsmouth crime map confirms that safe neighborhoods in Portsmouth are abundant. Families and individuals can feel confident exploring these areas, knowing they are backed by solid crime data and community strength.

Areas Requiring Greater Awareness

While Portsmouth safety is exceptional across the board, it's worth noting that even in the safest cities, certain areas may require a bit more awareness. According to the Portsmouth crime map, neighborhoods like Frank Jones Farm, Goodwin Park, Christian Shore / Creek, Lincoln / Broad Street Area, and Wibird Area all maintain an A grade, aligning with the city's overall high safety standards. However, as with any community, minor variations in crime incidents can occur due to factors like proximity to busier commercial zones or higher foot traffic.

It's important to approach this information with perspective—crime in Portsmouth remains very low compared to national averages. Residents and visitors in these areas can still enjoy a high quality of life by staying informed and practicing general safety precautions, such as securing homes and being mindful during late hours. The Portsmouth crime rate, even in these neighborhoods, does not indicate significant concern, but rather an opportunity to maintain vigilance in an already secure city. For additional context on crime statistics, resources from the Bureau of Justice Statistics can provide deeper insights into local and national trends.

Crime Trends and Local Factors

Understanding crime in Portsmouth requires looking beyond the numbers on the Portsmouth crime map to consider trends and local factors. The city's overall crime grade of A and a 100% distribution of A-grade neighborhoods suggest a sustained commitment to safety. Over recent years, Portsmouth has benefited from proactive policing, community engagement programs, and economic stability, all of which contribute to a low Portsmouth crime rate. The median home value of $452,741 and a highly educated population (61% college-educated) further indicate a community invested in maintaining a secure environment.

Local factors, such as Portsmouth's status as a tourist destination with a historic downtown and waterfront attractions, can influence minor crime fluctuations, particularly in areas with higher visitor traffic. Petty crimes like theft may occasionally spike during peak tourist seasons, but violent crime remains notably low. Additionally, Rockingham County's broader safety initiatives and low unemployment (1.6%) play a role in keeping crime in Portsmouth at bay. Seasonal variations, such as winter slowdowns in tourist activity, may also affect crime patterns, though the impact is minimal given the city's strong safety foundation.

Another factor bolstering Portsmouth safety is the community's active participation in neighborhood watch programs and local governance. Residents take pride in their city, evident in well-maintained public spaces and a shared commitment to reporting suspicious activity. For those researching crime trends over time, comparing local data with national statistics can provide valuable context. The low poverty rate of 6.6% also correlates with reduced crime, as economic hardship is often a driver of unlawful activity in less stable areas. Overall, the Portsmouth crime map reflects a city where safety is not just a statistic but a lived reality shaped by multiple positive influences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Portsmouth safe?

Yes, Portsmouth is considered very safe, with an overall crime grade of A and an average crime score of 0.046. According to the Portsmouth crime map, all 13 neighborhoods analyzed earn an A grade, placing the city well above national averages for safety. Whether you're a resident or visitor, practicing basic precautions enhances the already high level of Portsmouth safety, making it a secure place to live or explore.

What is the crime rate in Portsmouth?

The Portsmouth crime rate is exceptionally low, reflected in the city's overall A grade for safety. With 100% of neighborhoods scoring an A or higher on the Portsmouth crime map, incidents of crime are minimal compared to many other cities of similar size. This distribution underscores a community where safety is consistent across all areas, offering peace of mind to those concerned about crime in Portsmouth.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Portsmouth?

The safest neighborhoods in Portsmouth include Lafayette Park (A+ grade), Wibird Area (A grade), Lincoln / Broad Street Area (A grade), Christian Shore / Creek (A grade), and Goodwin Park (A grade). These areas, as highlighted by the Portsmouth crime map, combine low crime scores with stable, often affluent communities, making them ideal for families and individuals prioritizing safety.

Is Portsmouth a good place to live?

Portsmouth is widely regarded as an excellent place to live, balancing high safety with a high quality of life. The low Portsmouth crime rate, strong median household income of $78,712, and a vibrant cultural scene with historic charm make it appealing. Additionally, a 61% college-educated population and low unemployment rate of 1.6% contribute to a stable community. While housing costs (median home value of $452,741) may be a consideration, the exceptional Portsmouth safety and community amenities often outweigh this for many residents.

Exploring Portsmouth with Confidence

Armed with insights from the Portsmouth crime map, you can explore this historic New Hampshire city with confidence. From the top-tier safety of neighborhoods like Lafayette Park and Wibird Area to the overall low Portsmouth crime rate, the data confirms that Portsmouth is a secure haven for residents and visitors alike. Whether you're strolling through downtown, enjoying the waterfront, or settling into a new home, Portsmouth safety remains a cornerstone of its appeal. Use this guide to navigate safe neighborhoods in Portsmouth and embrace all that this charming community has to offer, knowing you're in one of the safest cities in the region.