Is Columbia or Irmo Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Irmo is safer than Columbia (Safety Score 46/100 vs 8/100), with a total crime rate of 1,807 per 100,000 versus 4,003 for Columbia — 55% lower. Columbia has higher rates in 0 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Irmo has a 100% lower rate.
Note: Columbia is 11.9x 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
Irmo — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia, SC
Irmo, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Columbia | Irmo | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,002.5 | 1,806.5 | +2,196.0 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 769.9 | 238.1 | +531.8 |
| Murder Rate | 9.7 | 0.0 | +9.7 |
| Rape Rate | 61.6 | 24.6 | +36.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 108.6 | 32.9 | +75.8 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 590.1 | 180.7 | +409.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,232.6 | 1,568.4 | +1,664.2 |
| Burglary Rate | 496.7 | 106.8 | +389.9 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,356.8 | 1,338.5 | +1,018.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 379.1 | 123.2 | +255.9 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia or Irmo safer?
Irmo is safer with a total crime rate of 1,807 per 100K vs 4,003 for Columbia — a 55% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Columbia has a violent crime rate of 769.9 per 100K while Irmo has 238.1. Irmo 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 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.