Is Charleston or Mobile Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Charleston is safer than Mobile (Safety Score 31/100 vs 30/100), with a total crime rate of 2,379 per 100,000 versus 2,426 for Mobile — 2% lower. Charleston has lower rates in 4 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Charleston has a 73% lower rate.
Charleston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Mobile — 4-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Charleston, SC
Mobile, AL
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Charleston | Mobile | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,379.3 | 2,426.5 | -47.2 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 357.6 | 752.0 | -394.5 |
| Murder Rate | 4.5 | 16.5 | -12.0 |
| Rape Rate | 28.0 | 26.2 | +1.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 42.7 | 52.7 | -10.0 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 282.4 | 656.7 | -374.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 2,021.7 | 1,674.5 | +347.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 139.6 | 313.4 | -173.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,656.5 | 1,188.6 | +467.9 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 225.6 | 172.5 | +53.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Charleston or Mobile safer?
Charleston is safer with a total crime rate of 2,379 per 100K vs 2,426 for Mobile — a 2% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Charleston has a violent crime rate of 357.6 per 100K while Mobile has 752.0. 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 Mobile, AL
Mobile, Alabama, a port city on Mobile Bay, boasts a rich Mardi Gras tradition predating New Orleans. Its population is predominantly African American, reflecting its deep Southern roots. With a safety score of 30/100 and a population coverage of 237,092, Mobile has a total crime rate of 2,426.5 per 100,000 residents.