Is Charleston or Columbia Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Charleston is safer than Columbia (Safety Score 31/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,379 per 100,000 versus 4,003 for Columbia — 41% lower. Charleston has lower rates in 7 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Charleston has a 61% lower rate.
Charleston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Charleston, SC
Columbia, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Charleston | Columbia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,379.3 | 4,002.5 | -1,623.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 357.6 | 769.9 | -412.4 |
| Murder Rate | 4.5 | 9.7 | -5.2 |
| Rape Rate | 28.0 | 61.6 | -33.5 |
| Robbery Rate | 42.7 | 108.6 | -65.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 282.4 | 590.1 | -307.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 3,232.6 | -1,210.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 139.6 | 496.7 | -357.1 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,656.5 | 2,356.8 | -700.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 225.6 | 379.1 | -153.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charleston or Columbia safer?
Charleston is safer with a total crime rate of 2,379 per 100K vs 4,003 for Columbia — a 41% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Charleston has a violent crime rate of 357.6 per 100K while Columbia has 769.9. Charleston has lower violent crime.
About Charleston, SC
Charleston, a historic port city founded in 1670, boasts cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture. Situated on a peninsula, its population is predominantly white, with a significant Black community contributing to its rich Lowcountry culture. With a safety score of 31/100 and a population coverage of 156,898, Charleston has a total crime rate of 2,379.3 per 100,000 residents.
About Columbia, SC
Columbia, South Carolina, the state capital, sits at the confluence of the Broad and Saluda Rivers, forming the Congaree. Home to the University of South Carolina, it's a vibrant city with a significant student population. With a safety score of 8/100 and a population coverage of 144,559, Columbia has a total crime rate of 4,002.5 per 100,000 residents.