The Top 8 Most Dangerous Cities in South Carolina With Highest Crime Rate (2023)
South Carolina has much to offer tourists and residents, such as a thriving economy, breathtaking beaches, and an unmistakable southern charm. However, if you’re worried about crime, there are certain cities in the state that you might want to steer clear of. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top ten most dangerous cities in South Carolina.
8 Most Dangerous Cities in South Carolina
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, located in South Carolina, is considered the most dangerous city in the state. This is due to the high crime rates, which can be attributed to the city’s famous tourist destination. The city’s population is around 36,000, and the crime rate is 330% higher than the national average. Shockingly, there are 10,096 crimes per 100,000 people, meaning residents have a 1 in 10 chance of falling victim to any crime. In 2022, 458 violent crimes and 3,056 property crimes were reported in the city. While it is true that thousands of people visit Myrtle Beach safely each year, it is highly recommended to stay in the tourist areas for maximum safety.
Florence
Located in Florence County, South Carolina, the city of Florence is considered one of the area’s most dangerous cities. With a population of 39,899, the crime rate in Florence is alarmingly high, sitting at 7,648 per 100,000 people, which is 226% higher than the national average. This means that residents of Florence face a significant risk of being the victim of any crime, with a 1 in 14 chance of becoming one. The crime statistics for 2021 indicate that there were five murders, 41 robberies, 455 assaults, and 235 burglaries. It is important to note that property crime is much more prevalent than violent crime in this city.
3. North Charleston
North Charleston, with a population of 106,113, is one of the most violent cities in South Carolina. It has a crime rate of 6,249 per 100,000 people, 166% higher than the national average. This means that residents have a 1 in 17 chance of becoming a victim of any crime. In 2021, the city recorded 35 murders, with robbery and assault being the most frequent violent crimes. Property crimes, such as theft and motor vehicle theft, are also prevalent in the area.
Columbia
Columbia, a city with a population of 140,000 and the capital of South Carolina, is considered to have one of the highest crime rates in the state. A crime rate of 5,228 per 100,000 people surpasses the South Carolina state average and is 123% higher than the national average. The city is known for its prevalent violent crimes, such as robbery and assault, as well as property crimes, like burglary and vehicle theft. Although some parts of the city have undergone urban revitalization, many areas remain unsafe.
Sumter
Sumter, a city in South Carolina, has a crime rate 110% higher than the national average despite a population of only 40,760. In 2021 alone, eight murders, 38 robberies, and 298 assaults were reported. The likelihood of experiencing a violent crime is 1 in 123, with burglary, theft, and grand theft auto also shared in the area. Additionally, the median household income in Sumter is $38,000, which is 30% lower than the national average.
Greenville
With a population of 70,720, Greenville, a city located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is unfortunately considered one of the worst places to live in South Carolina due to its high crime rates. The crime rate in Greenville is 4,764 per 100,000, 103% higher than the national average. This means that residents have a roughly 1 in 21 chance of becoming a victim of a crime in Greenville. Common offences include violent crimes such as robbery and assault and other crimes like burglary and theft. Despite the higher-than-average crime rate, Greenville is still a growing city with many large companies calling it home.
Summerville
Located in Dorchester County, Summerville is one of the cities in South Carolina considered dangerous. Despite having a crime rate lower than the state average, Summerville’s crime rate remains 33% above the national average. With a population of 51,000, the city has an average of 3,128 incidents per 100,000 people, making residents have a 1 in 32 chance of being a victim of any crime. Assault, burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft are the city’s most common types of corruption.
Charleston
Charleston is a famous tourist spot for its rich culinary heritage and historic buildings. However, the city’s crime rate is higher than the national average, making it the eighth most hazardous city in South Carolina. Residents face a 1 in 37 likelihood of being targeted by any criminal activity. In 2021, the town encountered 621 violent crimes and 3,316 property crimes. Therefore, residents have a 1 in 20 chance of being a victim of crime in Charleston.
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