Portage, WI Crime Rates

An Overview of Crime Rates in Portage, WI

The Portage crime rates are 8.5% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 16 violent crimes in Portage (156 per 100,000 people), which is 57.8% lower than the national average and there were a total of 202 property crimes (1971 per 100,000 residents) which is 0.8% higher than average.

When evaluating the Portage crime rate for every 100,000 residents, it positions itself in the middle range among all cities that reported crime. Our examination of total offenses, spanning both violent and property crimes, indicates that the reported Portage crime rates closely correspond to the national average reported by other regions.

Portage showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.

In the most recent release, Portage reported a property crime rate that closely aligns with the national average. In Portage, there were 1971 reported property crimes, a figure consistent with the national average of 1954 per 100,000 individuals. This positions the area as maintaining a level of safety and security on par with the typical city. The harmonious statistics underscore a balanced commitment to community well-being, offering residents a sense of stability and peace in their surroundings.

What Do the Locals Say About Crime in Portage?

What is the prevailing sentiment among Portage residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 7 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 57% of Portage residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 43% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.

Is Portage a Safe Place to Live?

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 9% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. Consequently, Portage experiences an average of 0.6 daily crimes, comprising 0.04 violent incidents and 0.55 property-related offenses. This evaluation offers a comprehensive understanding of the safety landscape, aiding individuals in making informed decisions when considering relocation.

Has Crime in Portage Increased Since Last Year?

Year-over-year crime data allows residents and potential residents to assess the crime in Portage. A decrease in crime rates may indicate improving safety, while an increase could raise concerns. The year-over-year crime rate in Portage has decreased by 11.4%. Violent crimes have decreased by 48.4%, while property crimes have decreased by 6.1%. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, authorities and communities can identify trends and patterns in criminal activity. This helps in understanding whether crime is increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over time.

Potential Causes for Crime in Portage

The economic prosperity of a city's inhabitants exerts substantial influence on crime stats. Elevated poverty rates and income inequality can precipitate heightened criminal activity, as individuals may turn to illicit means to fulfill their fundamental requirements. While lower poverty rates could lead to lower Portage crime rates. In Portage, the poverty rate stands at 12.8%, diverging from the national average of 15.1%.

High cost of living can lead to economic stress for individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. When people struggle to make ends meet due to high housing costs, healthcare expenses, or other basic necessities, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. On the flipside, cities that have a lower cost of living, could see a reduced crime rate. In Portage, the cost of living is 7.17% lower than the national average.

The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Portage stands at $143,400, a contrast to the national average of $184,700.

Portage crime map