Is Columbia or Hardeeville Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Hardeeville is safer than Columbia (Safety Score 51/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,667 per 100,000 versus 4,003 for Columbia — 58% lower. Columbia has higher rates in 1 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in violent crime, where Hardeeville has a 79% lower rate.
Note: Columbia is 10.5x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Columbia — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Hardeeville — 1-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia, SC
Hardeeville, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Columbia | Hardeeville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,002.5 | 1,666.7 | +2,335.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 769.9 | 160.1 | +609.8 |
| Murder Rate | 9.7 | 14.6 | -4.9 |
| Rape Rate | 61.6 | 0.0 | +61.6 |
| Robbery Rate | 108.6 | 36.4 | +72.2 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 590.1 | 109.2 | +480.9 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,232.6 | 1,506.6 | +1,726.0 |
| Burglary Rate | 496.7 | 327.5 | +169.2 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,356.8 | 1,106.3 | +1,250.6 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 379.1 | 72.8 | +306.3 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia or Hardeeville safer?
Hardeeville is safer with a total crime rate of 1,667 per 100K vs 4,003 for Columbia — a 58% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Columbia has a violent crime rate of 769.9 per 100K while Hardeeville has 160.1. Hardeeville has lower violent crime.
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.
About Hardeeville, SC
Hardeeville, South Carolina, established during the railroad boom, is a Lowcountry town situated in Jasper County. It serves as a gateway to Hilton Head Island and Savannah, drawing a diverse population. With a safety score of 51/100 and a population coverage of 13,740, Hardeeville has a total crime rate of 1,666.7 per 100,000 residents.