Is Florence or North Charleston Safer?
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of 2024 FBI data, Florence is safer than North Charleston (Safety Score 4/100 vs 4/100), with a total crime rate of 4,725 per 100,000 versus 4,767 for North Charleston — 1% lower. Florence has lower rates in 6 of 7 crime categories.
The biggest difference is in robbery, where Florence has a 63% lower rate.
Note: North Charleston is 3.0x larger by coverage, which can affect crime rate comparisons. Larger cities tend to report higher rates due to density and more comprehensive reporting.
Florence — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
North Charleston — 5-Year Trend
Violent
Property
Total
Florence, SC
North Charleston, SC
Detailed Crime Rate Comparison
| Crime Type | Florence | North Charleston | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Crime Rate | 4,725.2 | 4,767.2 | -41.9 |
| Violent Crime Rate | 806.8 | 811.3 | -4.5 |
| Murder Rate | 14.7 | 17.0 | -2.3 |
| Rape Rate | 34.3 | 60.7 | -26.4 |
| Robbery Rate | 56.4 | 153.0 | -96.6 |
| Aggravated Assault Rate | 701.3 | 579.7 | +121.6 |
| Property Crime Rate | 3,918.5 | 3,955.9 | -37.4 |
| Burglary Rate | 306.5 | 323.9 | -17.3 |
| Larceny-Theft Rate | 3,271.1 | 3,105.8 | +165.3 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft Rate | 340.9 | 526.3 | -185.4 |
All rates per 100,000 residents. Source: FBI UCR 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Florence or North Charleston safer?
Florence is safer with a total crime rate of 4,725 per 100K vs 4,767 for North Charleston — a 1% difference.
How do violent crime rates compare?
Florence has a violent crime rate of 806.8 per 100K while North Charleston has 811.3. Florence has lower violent crime.
About Florence, SC
Florence, South Carolina, a Pee Dee region hub, grew around its railroad heritage. It is the largest city in Florence County, with a diverse population of over 38,000 residents. With a safety score of 4/100 and a population coverage of 40,781, Florence has a total crime rate of 4,725.2 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.