When you are traveling with your family or friends around the United States of America, there are many beautiful things that you will see and encounter.
America has a lot to offer with many different landscapes.
There are cold climates and hot climates, fields and mountains, oceans and lakes, deserts and tundras.
Anything you want to see, you can see in the United States of America.
South Carolina is a state in the southeastern United States that has a lot of these same things to offer.
They have many state parks, one national park, and a vast variety of landscapes, with both ocean cities on the coast of the Atlantic and mountain towns at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
When you are traveling to South Carolina, it is important to know what the ten safest cities are.
The crime rates for the state of South Carolina are higher than the national average.
The property crime rate in South Carolina is 27.2 (meaning that it affects 27.2 out of every 1,000 people) compared to the national average of 19.6.
The violent crime rate is 5.3, compared to the national average of 4.0.
There are many safe places to visit in South Carolina, even though the crime rate is higher than average.
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The Ten Safest Cities in South Carolina
Edgefield
Edgefield, South Carolina was established in 1785 and is the gateway to Southern History.
It is located in the middle western part of the state.
Edgefield was part of the Great Wagon Road from the North.
Today, there is a downtown shopping district, historic sites, an artisan community, and many local eateries.
Edgefield, South Carolina has a population of fewer than 5,000 people.
The property crime rate is 6.6, and the violent crime rate is 0.4.
Bluffton
Bluffton is located on the coast in the lower part of the state.
Known as the Heart of the Lowcountry, Bluffton, South Carolina appreciates its rich past.
There is a historic arts and seafood festival, many historic houses and districts, and shopping and dining galore.
The city of Bluffton has a population of just over 27,500 people.
The property crime rate is 7.2, and the violent crime rate is 0.9.
Walhalla
Walhalla South Carolina is located in Upstate South Carolina and is known as the Main Street to the Mountains.
It is in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is close to the Chattooga River.
Walhalla is full of southern charm and outdoor activities with many bike trails.
The town of Walhalla has a population of fewer than 4,500 people.
The property crime rate is 7.3 and the violent crime rate is 1.8.
Fort Mill
Fort Mill, South Carolina is located at the very northern point of the state.
It is a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina.
With the best school districts in the state and a family-centered atmosphere, Fort Mill is a very popular place for people to live when they work in Charlotte.
Downtown Fort Mill has shopping and restaurants and some historic churches.
There are also many parks and a historic Greenway that gives families a lot of things to do.
The town of Fort Mill has a population of almost 24,000 people.
The property crime rate is 9.6 and the violent crime rate is 1.3.
Mount Pleasant
The town of Mount Pleasant is located close to the ocean and dates back to the Revolutionary War times.
The parks and recreation department manages several parks and lots of activities for people of all ages, from small children to senior adults.
Mount Pleasant’s population is over 94,000 people.
The property crime rate is 13.3 and the violent crime rate is 1.0.
Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms is located on an island in the southern part of the state of South Carolina, in the Atlantic Ocean.
The small town has tons of events for residents and tourists, including family events, park events, and even holiday events.
The town of Isle of Palms has a population of just over 4,000 people.
The property crime rate is 13.0 and the violent crime rate is 1.6.
Hanahan
The city of Hanahan is a relatively new city.
Established in 1973, Hanahan is located near Charleston, South Carolina, and is not far from the Atlantic Ocean.
The city is focused on community living with a smaller town vibe than that of the big nearby city.
There is a lot of southern charm in this city.
The town of Hanahan has about 28,000 people.
The property crime rate is 11.6 and the violent crime rate is 2.2.
Tega Cay
Tega Cay is located at the northern tip of the state close to Fort Mill.
It is also a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina.
There are many family activities to do in Tega Cay.
There are community events, golf and conference centers, parks and facilities, and much more.
The town of Tega Cay has a population of almost 12,000 people.
The property crime rate is 19.0 and the violent crime rate is 0.4.
Central
The town of Central, South Carolina is located in the northwest corner of the state, south of the big city of Greenville.
It is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and close to Lake Hartwell.
Because of the nearby mountains and lakes, there is a lot of outdoor activity in Central.
The town of Central has a population of just over 5,000 people.
The property crime rate is 19.6 and the violent crime rate is 0.6.
Port Royal
Port Royal is a port city on the Atlantic Ocean that is near Hilton Head, South Carolina.
It is a city rich in history.
It was established as a port city in 1562.
Because of its long-standing status as an old port city, Port Royal has a lot of history to share.
There are old buildings, boardwalks, parks, and so much more.
The town of Port Royal has a population of over 13,000 people.
The property crime rate is 15.0 and the violent crime rate is 2.7.
Five Safety Tips for Traveling to South Carolina
Do not travel alone.
Criminals often target travelers who are by themselves.
This is because they are less likely to be aware of their surroundings and can be distracted.
It is better to travel with a group of people so you have more people watching your back.
It is also great to have extra people to trade driving with.
Always be prepared.
Anything can happen when you are on a road trip.
It is a great plan to have extra supplies in case of car trouble, such as a spare tire, jumper cables, and a jack.
It is also a good idea to pack extra clothes and a toothbrush, a blanket, and extra phone and GPS chargers.
Bring a map.
Whether you have a digital map or a printed one, it is important to have a way to find where you are going in case you get lost.
If you have a map on your phone or GPS, make sure you have chargers for those devices.
Having a map can help you find your way if you end up in a place you are not familiar with.
Plan out your stops.
Before you leave for your destination, map out your route.
Choose safe cities for your gas, bathroom, and food breaks.
There may even be a cool building or overlook you want to stop at on your way.
Planning these things out before you leave can help you avoid dangerous towns in the middle.
Stay alert.
Being aware of your surroundings is a vitally important part of traveling.
Whether you are alone or with friends, you need to stay aware of what is around you.
Criminals target people who are distracted by phones or devices.
If you can, try to stay off of your devices in public places, and keep your hands on any children traveling with you at all times.
Sources
- https://www.exploreedgefield.com/index.html
- https://www.townofbluffton.sc.gov/
- https://www.cityofwalhalla.com/
- https://www.fortmillsc.gov/
- https://www.tompsc.com/
- https://www.iop.net/
- https://cityofhanahan.com/
- https://www.tegacaysc.org/
- https://www.cityofcentral.org/
- https://www.portroyal.org/
South Carolina Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: South Carolina Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dangerous city in South Carolina?
Spartanburg is the most dangerous city in South Carolina.
It is located in the northwestern part of the state.
The crime rates are much higher than the state and national averages and are quite staggering.
The property crime rate is 59.2 and the violent crime rate is very high at 13.9.
What is the crime rate in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?
Myrtle Beach is the second most dangerous city in South Carolina.
However, it is a popular destination for tourists because of the activities it offers and the beach.
The property crime rate is high at 87.1 and the violent crime rate is also very high at 13.8.
What is the crime rate in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina?
The destination of Hilton Head Island is very popular for tourists who want to go to a beautiful beach.
It is a safer option for a beach vacation.
The property crime rate is 21.2 and the violent crime rate is 2.0.
Thank you. I was going to travel alone to come back to where I used to live there but after reading this I will bring my sister or a friend. That was very safe and good advice to give. Thank you again.
While South Carolina has many beautiful places to visit such as state parks and historic sites along the coast or at the base of Blue Ridge Mountains; it is important to be aware that its crime rates are higher than national average for both property crimes (27.2 per 1k people) and violent crimes (5.3 compared to 4.0).
The historic charm, beautiful waterfront, and low crime rates make it an ideal destination for a relaxing and worry-free getaway.
This vibrant city not only offers a thriving arts scene but also boasts a strong sense of community, making it a safe and welcoming place for travelers.
Exploring the city’s history and enjoying local cuisine feels even more enjoyable when you know you’re in one of the safest spots in the state.