Portland, Portland ME — neighborhood review

Portland, ME

Portland · Cumberland County · ME 04101

Updated August 3, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$618K

Median Price

88/100

Walk Score

6.9/10

Schools

20 min

to Portland downtown

Score Breakdown

FAffordability
15/100
BSafety
78/100
C+Schools
69/100
CQuietness
60/100
B+Commute
85/100
B+Walkability
88/100
WYLT Score66/100

Our Take

Portland, ME has great walkability, a lively dining scene, and decent schools, but the real estate prices far outstrip median income and public transit options are limited. It’s a solid spot for young professionals who can afford the cost of living and are okay with commuting for work.

B.

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The Good

  • Walker's Paradise – most errands can be done on foot
  • Excellent food and craft‑beer culture
  • Good public schools, especially elementary
  • Abundant parks and waterfront access

Real Talk

  • !Median home price (~$576k) is almost 11x the median household income (~$54k)
  • !Limited public transit; most jobs require a car
  • !Small city job market forces many residents to commute out of town
  • !Property crime is moderate and occasional violent incidents occur
  • $High heating bills during Maine’s long winters
  • $Property taxes are above the national average for a city of this size
  • $Parking fees and higher car insurance rates due to weather conditions

Best For

Young professionals who can afford the cost of livingFoodies and craft‑beer loversFamilies looking for good schools and parksRemote workers needing a quiet yet vibrant base

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeLow
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Portland, ME

B

Safety grade

Safety score78 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Low
1.6incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

57% safer than the national average

🔒Property Crime
Moderate
19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

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From Residents

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