is portland dangerous

Portland, Oregon, has mixed safety conditions, with certain neighborhoods having higher crime rates than others. Overall, violent crime in Portland is relatively low and has been decreasing in recent years, but property crime remains a significant issue. Specific areas such as Downtown, Old Town/Chinatown, Hazelwood, Lents, Powellhurst-Gilbert, and Centennial have higher crime rates, including assaults, thefts, and vehicle-related crimes. For tourists and residents, it is advised to stay vigilant, avoid leaving valuables in cars, stay in well-lit areas after dark, and be cautious in known higher-risk neighborhoods. Portland remains relatively safe for tourists as long as standard urban awareness is practiced, with many areas being calm and secure. However, some parts, especially after dark, require extra caution due to property crimes and occasional violent incidents. The presence of homelessness and visible encampments does impact perceptions of safety, but official data does not show a direct increase in violent crime tied to homeless services. Overall, safety in Portland depends heavily on the neighborhood and local conditions rather than a blanket characterization of the city as dangerous or safe.