Is Clemson or Columbia Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Clemson is safer than Columbia (Safety Score 37/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 2,149 per 100,000 versus 4,003 for Columbia — 46% lower. Clemson has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Clemson has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Columbia is 8.1x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Clemson — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Clemson, SC
Columbia, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Clemson | Columbia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 2,149.2 | 4,002.5 | -1,853.3 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 162.3 | 769.9 | -607.6 |
| Murder Rate | 0.0 | 9.7 | -9.7 |
| Rape Rate | 67.2 | 61.6 | +5.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 11.2 | 108.6 | -97.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 84.0 | 590.1 | -506.1 |
| Property Crime Rate | 1,986.9 | 3,232.6 | -1,245.7 |
| Burglary Rate | 179.1 | 496.7 | -317.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 1,421.6 | 2,356.8 | -935.2 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 386.2 | 379.1 | +7.1 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clemson or Columbia safer?
Clemson is safer with a total crime rate of 2,149 per 100K vs 4,003 for Columbia — a 46% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Clemson has a violent crime rate of 162.3 per 100K while Columbia has 769.9. Clemson has lower violent crime.
About Clemson, SC
Clemson, South Carolina, a small city in Pickens County, is home to Clemson University, founded in 1889. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, its population is predominantly young due to the university. With a safety score of 37/100 and a population coverage of 17,867, Clemson has a total crime rate of 2,149.2 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.