Is Columbia or Myrtle Beach Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Columbia is safer than Myrtle Beach (Safety Score 8/100 vs 1/100), with a total crime rate of 4,003 per 100,000 versus 6,767 for Myrtle Beach — 41% lower. Columbia has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in property crime, where Columbia has a 43% lower rate.
Note: Columbia is 3.5x 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
Myrtle Beach — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia, SC
Myrtle Beach, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Columbia | Myrtle Beach | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,002.5 | 6,767.1 | -2,764.6 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 769.9 | 1,111.6 | -341.7 |
| Murder Rate | 9.7 | 12.2 | -2.5 |
| Rape Rate | 61.6 | 185.3 | -123.7 |
| Robbery Rate | 108.6 | 173.1 | -64.5 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 590.1 | 741.1 | -151.0 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,232.6 | 5,655.5 | -2,422.9 |
| Burglary Rate | 496.7 | 446.1 | +50.6 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,356.8 | 4,814.5 | -2,457.7 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 379.1 | 394.9 | -15.8 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia or Myrtle Beach safer?
Columbia is safer with a total crime rate of 4,003 per 100K vs 6,767 for Myrtle Beach — a 41% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Columbia has a violent crime rate of 769.9 per 100K while Myrtle Beach has 1,111.6. Columbia 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 Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach, a popular East Coast vacation destination, is known for its "Grand Strand" of beaches and numerous golf courses. This coastal city in Horry County experiences a significant influx of tourists, especially during the summer months. With a safety score of 1/100 and a population coverage of 41,022, Myrtle Beach has a total crime rate of 6,767.1 per 100,000 residents.