Penobscot County, located in Maine, has a population of around 151,096 as of 2020. It boasts the University of Maine, the state’s largest public university, and the Penobscot River, Maine’s longest river. The county offers various attractions, including museums, parks, trails, and historical sites.
However, when looking for a place to live in Penobscot County, safety becomes a top priority, particularly for families, young professionals, and retirees. In this article, we will explore the top five safest neighborhoods in Penobscot County, considering factors like crime rates, public schools, cost of living, and more.
Hampden
Hampden, a town in Penobscot County, had 7,638 residents in 2020. It’s located about 10 miles south of Bangor, the county’s largest city. While Hampden has a small-town vibe, it offers many local dining and activity options. Being close to Bangor and the University of Maine means there are often events nearby.
Hampden gets an A+ overall grade and an A- for safety. Crime rates are low, with only 1.4 violent crimes and 8.9 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2019. Public schools in Hampden also rank well with an A- grade. The student-teacher ratio is 12:1, and the graduation rate is 93%. The cost of living is moderate, with a median home value of $214,800 and a median rent of $1,024.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Cumberland County, Maine
Orono
Orono, a town in Penobscot County, had a population of 11,481 in 2020. It’s situated about 8 miles north of Bangor, near the Penobscot River. Orono is famous for being the location of the University of Maine, hosting around 11,000 students and offering diverse academic programs and cultural activities.
The town is well-rated overall, with an A+ grade, particularly for low crime rates (0.9 violent crimes and 10.4 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2019) and excellent public schools (average student-teacher ratio of 13:1 and a graduation rate of 95%). Orono’s cost of living is moderate, with a median home value of $189,400 and a median rent of $1,004.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, Alaska
Veazie
Veazie, a town in Penobscot County, had a population of 1,771 in 2020. It’s situated around 5 miles north of Bangor, near the Penobscot River. Veazie is known for its close-knit community and welcoming vibe. The town offers easy access to nature with various trails and proximity to the river.
In terms of quality of life, Veazie shines with an overall A grade, particularly excelling in crime and safety with an A+ rating. Crime rates are notably low, with only 0.6 violent crimes and 4.5 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2019.
Education is another strong suit, as Veazie boasts outstanding public schools, receiving an A+ grade. The student-teacher ratio is favorable at 10:1, and the graduation rate is an impressive 100%.
When it comes to affordability, Veazie strikes a balance with a moderate cost of living. The median home value is $185,500, and median rent is $1,017.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Sitka, Alaska
Old Town
Old Town, situated in Penobscot County, had a population of 7,431 in 2020. It’s about 13 miles north of Bangor, along the Penobscot River. This place has a fascinating history, being a hub for the lumber industry and the ancestral home of the Penobscot Nation, a Native American tribe. Old Town earns an A- overall grade, with an A- in crime and safety.
The city boasts low crime rates, with just 1.2 violent crimes and 10.9 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2019. Additionally, Old Town has commendable public schools, earning a B+ grade. The average student-teacher ratio stands at 12:1, and the typical graduation rate is 87%. Living costs are relatively low, with a median home value of $128,400 and median rent of $762.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Hill County, Montana
Brewer
Brewer, located in Penobscot County, had a population of 9,123 in 2020. It sits on the other side of the Penobscot River from Bangor and has three bridges connecting the two cities. Brewer boasts a strong local economy, a vibrant community, and hosts various businesses, parks, and events. The city’s overall grade on Niche is an A-, with an A- rating for safety.
Crime rates in Brewer are low, with just 1.3 violent crimes and 11.8 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2019. Public schools in Brewer are also good, receiving a B+ grade, with an average student-teacher ratio of 14:1 and a graduation rate of 90%. The cost of living in Brewer is moderate, with a median home value of $161,200 and median rent of $886.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Orlando, Florida
Conclusion
Penobscot County, Maine, offers a fantastic living experience with various safe and cozy neighborhoods. Whether you prefer a small-town atmosphere, a college town setting, historic charm, or a vibrant city feel, Penobscot County has it all. The five neighborhoods we’ve highlighted are among the safest in the county, but there are numerous others to discover.
