| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Portage/100k people | Michigan/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 1,607 | n/a (estimate) | 3,252 | 1,813 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 5.2 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 24 | n/a | 48.6 | 56.5 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 10 | n/a | 20.2 | 31.3 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 103 | n/a | 208.4 | 341.3 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 137 | n/a (estimate) | 277 | 434 | 359 |
| Burglary | 133 | n/a | 269.1 | 184.2 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 1,258 | n/a | 2,545.7 | 963.6 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 79 | n/a | 159.9 | 231.0 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 1,470 | n/a (estimate) | 2,975 | 1,379 | 1,760 |
Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Portage is 53.5% higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 137 violent crimes reported in Portage, equivalent to 277 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 22.8%. Additionally, Portage recorded 1470 property crimes, amounting to 2975 per 100,000 people, higher than the national average by 69%.
During the most recently reported crime year, Portage experienced a total of 0 reported murders. This statistic paints it as a beacon of security when it comes to severe violent crimes. Such an achievement not only instills a profound sense of security for its residents but also sets a high standard for other communities striving to create similarly secure environments. It underscores the area as a place where safety is a top priority, enhancing its appeal as a desirable location to live and thrive.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Portage residents. Out of the respondents (15 in total), 80% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Portage were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 20% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
To get a feel for the safety of living in Portage, it's essential to analyze both the overall crime rate and the daily incident count. Portage presents a total crime rate that is 53% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Portage experiences an average of 4.4 daily crimes, comprising 0.38 violent incidents and 4.03 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Portage. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Portage has decreased by 11.3%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 2.2%, while property crime has decreased by 12.3%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Portage.
In Portage, the poverty rate currently stands at 7.8%, which contrasts with the national average of 15.1%. It's essential to recognize that the economic status of a city's inhabitants could be a pivotal factor influencing crime stats. Communities grappling with high poverty rates and income inequality are often susceptible to elevated crime levels, as some individuals may turn to unlawful activities to fulfill their essential needs. While lower poverty rates could lead to a reduction in Portage crime rates.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Portage crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Portage has an unemployment rate of 4.6%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
Portage has an average rental rate of $1,344 per month, compared to the national average of $1,444. In areas with high rental costs, some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions. Overcrowding can lead to increased stress and tension, which may contribute to domestic disputes and related property or violent crimes. Addressing affordable housing and economic mobility can be important strategies for reducing crime in such areas.
| Item | Portage | Michigan | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 69 | 10,515 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.5 | 2.1 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Michigan /100K | National /100K |
| Michigan | 40,460 | 414 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Parchment, MI | 1,936 | 146 | 463 | 609 |
| Marcellus, MI | 1,173 | 187 | 593 | 780 |
| Galesburg, MI | 2,274 | 242 | 769 | 1,011 |
| Comstock Northwest, MI | 6,218 | 270 | 859 | 1,129 |
| Lawton, MI | 1,591 | 168 | 1,010 | 1,178 |
| Westwood, MI | 9,439 | 310 | 986 | 1,296 |
| Mattawan, MI | 2,627 | 566 | 814 | 1,380 |
| Portage, MI | 50,237 | 277 | 2,975 | 3,252 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Cuyahoga Falls, OH | 50,241 | 174 | 1,846 | 2,020 |
| St. Louis Park, MN | 50,208 | 179 | 3,327 | 3,507 |
| North Highlands, CA | 50,172 | 713 | 3,048 | 3,760 |
| Antelope, CA | 50,311 | 582 | 2,489 | 3,071 |
| Columbus, IN | 50,148 | 13 | 83 | 96 |
| Portage, MI | 50,237 | 277 | 2,975 | 3,252 |
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