Is Charleston or Irmo Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Irmo is safer than Charleston (Safety Score 46/100 vs 31/100), with a total crime rate of 1,807 per 100,000 versus 2,379 for Charleston — 24% lower. Charleston has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Irmo has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Charleston is 12.9x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Charleston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Irmo — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Charleston, SC
Irmo, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Charleston | Irmo | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,379.3 | 1,806.5 | +572.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 357.6 | 238.1 | +119.4 |
| Murder Rate | 4.5 | 0.0 | +4.5 |
| Rape Rate | 28.0 | 24.6 | +3.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 42.7 | 32.9 | +9.9 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 282.4 | 180.7 | +101.7 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 1,568.4 | +453.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 139.6 | 106.8 | +32.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,656.5 | 1,338.5 | +318.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 225.6 | 123.2 | +102.5 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charleston or Irmo safer?
Irmo is safer with a total crime rate of 1,807 per 100K vs 2,379 for Charleston — a 24% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Charleston has a violent crime rate of 357.6 per 100K while Irmo has 238.1. Irmo 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 Irmo, SC
Irmo, South Carolina, a suburb of Columbia, is known for its annual Okra Strut festival. Situated in the Midlands, it spans parts of Lexington and Richland counties, with a growing population. With a safety score of 46/100 and a population coverage of 12,178, Irmo has a total crime rate of 1,806.5 per 100,000 residents.