Charleston, South Carolina, presents a varied picture of safety, with certain areas experiencing higher crime rates than others. According to 2022 FBI data, Charleston’s overall crime rate was 2,264.3 crimes per 100,000 people, slightly lower than the national average of 2,324.2 per 100,000.
The city reported 571 violent crimes and 2,878 property crimes in that year. Violent crimes included murder, rape, robbery, and assault, while property crimes encompassed burglary, theft, and vehicle theft.
Analyzing the safety of specific neighborhoods in Charleston provides further insight:
- Pennsylvania’s Financial Relief: Senator Costa Pushes for Lump Sum Payout to Residents as Stimulus Check
- $81.5 Million Investment to Enhance Internet Infrastructure Across Indiana: Governor Holcomb Announced
- Oregon Minimum Wage Hike Standard Rate Increment to Roll Out on July 1st
- 10,000 Jobs Lost as California Fast Food Chains Struggle with $20 Minimum Wage
- Walmart Rolls Out New Benefits Package for Long-Term Hourly Employees; Certification also Included
- Kiawah Island: Despite its small size and beautiful beaches, Kiawah Island has a higher crime rate than the national average. However, crime rates, including violent crimes, have been decreasing yearly.
- Goose Creek: Known for its friendly atmosphere, Goose Creek has experienced excessive crime rates in the past, although improvements have been noted. Violent crimes like murder, rape, robbery, and assault are still concerns, along with property crimes such as theft and burglary.
- Eastside: This area continues to struggle with violence, gang wars, drug activity, and crimes like burglary, homicide, car theft, and robbery. However, the homicide rate has dropped notably since 2010.
- Hanahan: Hanahan has seen a decrease in crime by 19% over the years. Both violent and property crimes are below the national averages.
- Mount Pleasant: Despite certain areas being drug-riddled, Mount Pleasant’s overall crime rate was 34% below the state-wide average in 2022, with a significant decrease in crimes over the years.
- Summerville: This neighborhood has a massive heroin issue, and most crimes are related to theft and burglary. The overall crime rate is 9% greater than the South Carolina average.
- Harleston Village: Known for its attractions like Colonial Lake Park, Harleston Village faces mostly property crimes, with little or no violent crime.
- West Ashley: This area has experienced a reduction in both violent and nonviolent crimes, including motor vehicle theft and burglary.
- James Island: James Island’s crime rates are 60% lower than the South Carolina average, with a notable decrease in violent crimes over the years.
- North Charleston: Once among the top ten most dangerous cities in the U.S., North Charleston has seen a downward trend in crime, though it remains higher in comparison to other neighborhoods in Charleston.
For Charleston as a whole, the chance of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 227, and for property crime, it’s 1 in 45. The city recorded 662 violent crimes and 3,369 property crimes in 2022, placing it slightly above the national average for crime. However, tourist areas are considered quite safe.
In conclusion, while Charleston has areas with concerning crime rates, significant improvements have been observed in many neighborhoods. Tourist locations, in particular, tend to be safer, although it’s always advisable for visitors and residents alike to remain vigilant and informed about the specific areas they plan to visit or reside in.