Is South Shore, KY (South Portsmouth) a Safe Place to Live? Housing, Crime & Buyer Guide
Explore safety, home prices, commute patterns, and neighborhood insights in South Shore, KY - so you can decide with confidence before buying or renting.
Most buyers only see the home. Smart buyers check the neighborhood first.
Crime Summary:
Crime Overview (last 12 months)
7 Registered Offenders Nearby
Crime Details:
Recent reported incidents in the past 12 months (newest first). Up to 10 records.
| Crime date | Crime description | Address | Crime category |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 16, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a caller reported a black SUV traveling from KY 503 toward US 23 with a very loud stereo that reportedly shook windows at a nearby home late at night. | US-23 & KY-503, Wurtland, KY 41144 | Disturbance |
| Jul 16, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a medical emergency was reported near First Avenue involving a four-year-old child having difficulty breathing. Units requested/confirmed an ETA for EMS. | 1st Ave, Worthington, KY 41183 | Medical Emergency |
| Jul 16, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, emergency responders received a medical call near Washington Street for a female with a fast heart rate. | Washington St, Greenup, KY 41144 | Medical Emergency |
| Jul 16, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a medical call was dispatched near Walburn Avenue for a male who had fallen outside and may have a fractured wrist. County patrol and EMS units responded to the scene. | Walburn Ave, Franklin Furnace, OH 45629 | Medical Emergency |
| Jul 16, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a medical call for a 92-year-old female experiencing pain and generalized discomfort near Ohio River Road. | Ohio River Rd, Greenup, KY 41144 | Medical Emergency |
| Jul 16, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, emergency crews handled a traffic hazard near a bridge by a fast-food restaurant, where a double-wide flatbed trailer was blocking a turn lane. Units set up lane closures and directed vehicles through the nearby intersection and back toward the bridge to manage traffic flow. | Seaton Ave, Greenup, KY 41144 | Road Closure |
| Jul 14, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a caller reported following a box-truck-style moving van with no working taillights while traveling northbound on Industrial Parkway (KY 67) after entering from I-64, creating a possible traffic hazard. | KY-67 & Industrial Pkwy, Wurtland, KY 41144 | Traffic |
| Jul 14, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, dispatch received a report of a person wearing a green vest near Charles Street who was trying to identify themselves but would not fully verify their identity. | Charles St, Greenup, KY 41144 | Suspicious Activity |
| Jul 14, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, a deputy is out with an apparently unattended silver Ford Explorer on South Shore and is trying to contact the registered owner at a residence on Winifred Street so the vehicle can be picked up before it is towed. | Winifred St, Greenup, KY 41144 | Other Non-Crime Event |
| Jul 14, 2026 | As discussed during the dispatch call, dispatch reports a possible medical emergency at Green Local Schools, where a man appears to be passed out behind the wheel of a white vehicle in the school area. | Gallia Pike, Franklin Furnace, OH 45629 | Medical Emergency |
For all crime details - View Safety Report
Overview
South Portsmouth is a rural neighborhood in South Shore, Kentucky, with mostly medium to small single-family homes and apartments. Many homes were built between 1970 and 1999, and the area has a high vacancy rate of 13.4%, indicating weaker housing demand or new construction.
This neighborhood is notable for its college-friendly environment, ranking in the top 5.3% in Kentucky. It offers a relatively walkable and safe setting, appealing to students and families alike.
Quick Facts
| College-Friendly Rank | Top 5.3% in Kentucky |
|---|
Housing market and real estate character
Housing in South Portsmouth mainly consists of medium to small single-family homes and apartments, with most properties owner occupied. The neighborhood has a relatively high vacancy rate of 13.4%.
| Owner Occupied Rate | High |
|---|---|
| Housing Age | Many built 1970-1999 |
| Housing Type | Medium to small single-family homes and apartments |
What buyers will notice right away
Families & Lifestyle
South Portsmouth is recognized for its college-friendly atmosphere, safety, and walkability, making it attractive to students and families.
| College-Friendly Rank | Top 5.3% in Kentucky |
|---|
Demographics
| Executive, Management & Professional Occupations | 45.3% |
|---|---|
| Scottish Ancestry | 9.8% |
| English Ancestry | 15.1% |
| English Speakers | 99.2% |
Commute
Most residents enjoy very short commutes, with over half traveling under 15 minutes. Driving alone is the primary mode, but walking and carpooling are also common.
South Portsmouth offers some of the shortest commutes nationally, with a strong reliance on private vehicles and notable walking rates.
| Commute Time Under 15 min | 53.5% |
|---|---|
| Drive Alone Rate | 82.7% |
| Carpool Rate | 11.3% |
| Walk to Work Rate | 6.0% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Portsmouth good for college students?
Yes, it ranks in the top 5.3% college-friendly neighborhoods in Kentucky with safety and walkability.
What is the vacancy rate?
The vacancy rate is 13.4%, higher than 75.0% of U.S. neighborhoods.