Is Columbia or North Charleston Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Columbia is safer than North Charleston (Safety Score 8/100 vs 4/100), with a total crime rate of 4,003 per 100,000 versus 4,767 for North Charleston — 16% lower. Columbia has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in murder, where Columbia has a 43% lower rate.
Columbia — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
North Charleston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Columbia, SC
North Charleston, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Columbia | North Charleston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,002.5 | 4,767.2 | -764.7 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 769.9 | 811.3 | -41.3 |
| Murder Rate | 9.7 | 17.0 | -7.3 |
| Rape Rate | 61.6 | 60.7 | +0.9 |
| Robbery Rate | 108.6 | 153.0 | -44.4 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 590.1 | 579.7 | +10.4 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,232.6 | 3,955.9 | -723.3 |
| Burglary Rate | 496.7 | 323.9 | +172.8 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 2,356.8 | 3,105.8 | -749.0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 379.1 | 526.3 | -147.2 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Columbia or North Charleston safer?
Columbia is safer with a total crime rate of 4,003 per 100K vs 4,767 for North Charleston — a 16% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Columbia has a violent crime rate of 769.9 per 100K while North Charleston has 811.3. 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 North Charleston, SC
North Charleston, a city with a rich naval history, lies in the heart of the Lowcountry. It's home to a diverse population exceeding 115,000 residents, spanning both Charleston and Dorchester counties. With a safety score of 4/100 and a population coverage of 123,511, North Charleston has a total crime rate of 4,767.2 per 100,000 residents.