Top 10 Safest Cities in South Carolina

South Carolina may be on the smaller size compared to some of the larger states out west. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in gracious hospitality, mesmerizing history and genuine charm. Charleston has captured Southern Living’s prestigious title of the South’s Best City several times. Even those who don’t live in South Carolina find it captivating; the state rings up $29 billion annually in tourism. So it’s not surprising that the state has plenty to offer to new residents, including a number of communities that rank well when it comes to safety. Let’s take a look the top 10 safest cities in the Palmetto State. Thinking about building your dream home in South Carolina? Find your perfect design at Houseplans.com.

The Top 10 Safest Cities in South Carolina

1. Mount Pleasant

• Population: 92,448
• Violent Crimes: 105
• Nonviolent Crimes: 1,135
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Historical Mount Pleasant, a suburb of Charleston, is on the move and is the fifth largest municipality in South Carolina. Besides its low crime rate, mild climate and great public school system, residents here experience an idyllic lifestyle.

Mount Pleasant sits just across the Cooper River from Charleston, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to enjoy the history, charm, and energy of a larger city without sacrificing a sense of calm. This coastal town doesn’t shy away from its Southern roots but adds a modern twist, making it a compelling choice for everyone. Sandwiched between Charleston and the barrier islands, Mount Pleasant’s location allows you to explore the hustle of the city or the tranquility of the beach within minutes.

The locals call it “The Pleasant,” a nod to its welcoming atmosphere. But this isn’t your sleepy small town; it’s grown into a dynamic suburb known for its picturesque waterfront views, high-quality schools, and impressive parks. Mount Pleasant has a vibrant dining scene, which balances old-school seafood joints with newer, trendy spots. The historic Old Village district and Shem Creek’s waterfront are where you’ll find locals sipping cocktails or sampling fresh oysters while watching the sunset over shrimp boats.

Safety is one of the reasons people choose this area. Crime rates in Mount Pleasant are considerably lower than the national average, making it one of the safest places in South Carolina. The town’s dedication to keeping crime low is palpable, and the well-maintained streets reflect a community that values quality of life.

For history buffs, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a gem, where you can explore the USS Yorktown and other WWII naval vessels. But if your interests run more toward the outdoors, Mount Pleasant has you covered. The Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park offers fishing piers, walking trails, and scenic spots to watch ships come in. Then there’s Palmetto Islands County Park—a sprawling green space perfect for kayaking, hiking, or a leisurely picnic.

Mount Pleasant’s residents also enjoy top-tier shopping and dining. The Towne Centre is where you’ll find national retail chains and unique boutiques, while Coleman Boulevard is lined with a mix of restaurants, coffee shops, and bars. Its proximity to Charleston means you can take in professional sports like RiverDogs baseball or Cougars basketball. Closer to home, Mount Pleasant fosters a strong sense of community with local events like farmers’ markets and waterfront festivals.

Take advantage of top hospitals like East Cooper Medical Center and MUSC Health nearby. The schools are another big draw, with highly rated public schools and nearby colleges such as The Citadel and College of Charleston.

Mount Pleasant strikes the perfect balance. Live close to Charleston and its energy, but also escape to your own peaceful slice of the Lowcountry. Plenty of communities are waiting to welcome you home in Mount Pleasant.

2. Port Royal

• Population: 13,368
• Violent Crimes: 40
• Nonviolent Crimes: 232
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Port Royal, South Carolina is tucked away on the state’s southern coast, a stone’s throw from Beaufort and a short drive from the more bustling Savannah, Georgia. It’s not one of those places that shouts for attention, but its charm is undeniable—this is where history collides with the easy pace of Lowcountry living. People know Port Royal as “Where the Livin’ is Easy,” and that’s more than just a motto; it’s a way of life. With a laid-back vibe, Port Royal is less about hustle and more about community, which makes it an intriguing option for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

This charming town is tucked away in a natural harbor on an island of the same name and was the site of a naval battle during the Civil War. Another claim to fame: Forrest Gump filmed its hurricane scene at one of the docks. Those wanting to live here must dig deep into their pockets; it is a more affluent and expensive South Carolina locale. 

From the annual Soft Shell Crab Festival to the Spanish moss-draped streets, the town feels both timeless and uniquely Lowcountry. It’s known for its quiet beaches, especially The Sands, where locals go to fish or watch dolphins play in the water. The nearby Port Royal Sound Foundation’s Maritime Center offers hands-on learning experiences about local marine life.

Safety is on the minds of many, and Port Royal generally maintains a low crime rate compared to the national average, which can ease the minds of those considering a move. While no place is crime-free, Port Royal’s close-knit community fosters a sense of security, and it’s a town where neighbors know each other by name.

For those looking to stay active, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore. You’ve got Port Royal’s Cypress Wetlands with boardwalk trails winding through marshland teeming with birds and wildlife. Nearby Hunting Island State Park offers expansive beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse for those who crave the outdoors. The region’s waterways also open the door to kayaking, fishing, and boating, making it an outdoor lover’s dream.

Dining in Port Royal leans into fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find plenty of seafood, of course, but the town has seen an upswing in more eclectic dining options in recent years. Shopping has a more laid-back vibe, with local boutiques and stores dotting the area. The larger, more commercial options are just a short drive away in Beaufort or even over to Bluffton or Savannah for those looking for big-city conveniences.

Port Royal may not have the professional or collegiate sports scene of a metropolis, but you’re close enough to Savannah if you need your fix of larger events. The community itself is built more around local culture—fishing, festivals, and the arts. And when it comes to healthcare, you’re covered with Beaufort Memorial Hospital close by and plenty of specialists in the area.

For those with families, the schools are solid, with Beaufort County School District offering a range of educational options. Retirees might appreciate the easy access to healthcare and the abundance of outdoor activities, while single professionals can tap into the growing job market, especially in tourism and the service industries. Major employers in the area include the nearby military installations like Parris Island, which gives a steady economic boost to the region.

What makes Port Royal enticing over other places? It’s that sweet spot between convenience and calm. You’re never too far from the energy of Savannah or Charleston, but you can always retreat back to a slower, more peaceful pace when you need it. It’s a place that feels like home the moment you arrive. Find your new home in Port Royal.

3. Tega Cay

• Population: 11,322
• Violent Crimes: 5
• Nonviolent Crimes: 164
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Tega Cay, whose name means “beautiful peninsula” in Polynesian, is a waterfront community on Lake Wylie at the border with North Carolina. Many who work in Charlotte, North Carolina, find this gem to the south to be a quiet haven — and only a 20-mile commute. While Tega Cay is becoming more of a tourist destination, many people have put down roots in this affluent town.

Tega Cay offers a blend of serenity and convenience that feels like a hidden gem. What makes Tega Cay truly unique is its sense of safety and community. Its low crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, giving residents peace of mind.

Tega Cay is known for its outdoor activities, especially centered around Lake Wylie. Water sports, fishing, and boating dominate the scene. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there’s the 27-hole Tega Cay Golf Club, an impressive facility for golfers of all levels, as well as a robust network of walking trails, tennis courts, and parks. Windjammer Park, located on the lake, offers swimming, volleyball, and picnic areas, making it a family favorite.

Tega Cay’s entertainment and dining scene is laid-back but diverse. You can find charming local eateries, cafés, and unique shops just minutes from home. Neighboring Fort Mill and Rock Hill expand your options with more shopping districts and chain restaurants, while Charlotte’s nightlife, museums, and sports arenas are close enough for spontaneous outings. Sports fans will love the easy access to Charlotte’s professional teams—the Panthers (NFL), Hornets (NBA), and the Knights (minor league baseball). Healthcare in the area is robust, with Atrium Health and Piedmont Medical Center providing top-tier services nearby.

The highly rated Fort Mill School District is renowned for its strong academic performance, making Tega Cay an ideal place to raise kids. Retirees, on the other hand, might lean into the calm of the lake, the golf, and the welcoming, low-key vibe that makes every day feel like a vacation. As for the single professionals, the proximity to Charlotte offers career opportunities without sacrificing the tranquility of suburban living.

Tega Cay has the balance of lakeside leisure, safety, top-notch schools, and proximity to Charlotte’s thriving economy. It’s where small-town charm meets the conveniences of big-city life, all wrapped up in the natural beauty of Lake Wylie’s shimmering waters. Discover new homes in Tega Cay today!

4. Mauldin

• Population: 24,453
• Violent Crimes: 57
• Nonviolent Crimes: 413
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Less than 10 miles from Greenville, Mauldin is nestled in the Upstate of South Carolina. Just minutes from Greenville, this town enjoys proximity to one of the state’s fastest-growing urban areas, without surrendering its own unique charm. Mauldin is a quiet city that punches above its weight when it comes to quality of life.

Mauldin offers more than just an affordable zip code. This city is known for its family-friendly vibe, with top-tier schools and a crime rate that remains impressively low compared to national averages. The feeling of safety here is palpable. Crime doesn’t dominate local conversation—life in Mauldin is about enjoying parks like Sunset Park, or hitting the Swamp Rabbit Trail that runs through nearby Greenville. Kids roam free in the playgrounds, while retirees sip coffee at local cafés, savoring a slower pace of life.

Entertainment in Mauldin ranges from quiet evenings at a local dining spot to a night out at the nearby Peace Center in Greenville, where performances and concerts can rival any major metro offering. Mauldin’s dining scene is quietly sophisticated, a mix of Southern comfort and modern fusion. And for shopping, you’ll find everything from charming local boutiques to nearby larger retailers.

The city may not have a bustling professional sports scene of its own, but residents cheer for nearby teams like the Greenville Drive (Minor League Baseball) or travel to Clemson for big-time college football. Major employers in Mauldin include companies like Michelin and GE, offering stability and opportunity for professionals across industries.

Meanwhile, healthcare is covered with nearby Prisma Health and Bon Secours systems. Schools in Mauldin are part of the Greenville County School District, one of the best in the state, and nearby colleges like Furman and Clemson give this area a youthful vibe and academic credibility.

Mauldin is safe, quiet, and community-driven, yet close enough to the buzz of Greenville to make sure you’re never too far from the action. With all the benefits of small-town living, you’re sure to find the perfect new home in Mauldin.

5. Bluffton

• Population: 24,812
• Violent Crimes: 36
• Nonviolent Crimes: 220
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Minutes away from Hilton Head Island, Bluffton is a true award winner. The town ranks among the top 10 places to raise a family in South Carolina, Huffington Post rated it No. 1 for its enchanting non-beach getaway destinations. This Lowcountry community is known for its scenic views of the May River. Residents spend most of their time outdoors because the weather is nearly perfect year-round.

Live in a town that feels like it’s been plucked from a postcard. Located in Beaufort County, it’s just a stone’s throw from Hilton Head Island and a short drive to Savannah, Georgia. Charleston isn’t too far either, giving Bluffton access to both the quiet Lowcountry charm and the vibrancy of nearby cities. Nicknamed the “Heart of the Lowcountry,” Bluffton is a mix of antebellum architecture, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and a rapidly growing economy. It’s one of those places where the past meets the present in a way that feels authentic.

Bluffton has carved out its own identity, thanks in part to its historic Old Town district, which serves as the town’s cultural heartbeat. Wander through, and you’ll find quirky galleries, mom-and-pop shops, and the sort of dining scene that ranges from shrimp and grits at the local dive to high-end culinary experiences. Bluffton’s May River oysters are legendary, and the seafood scene here rivals any coastal town. For those who prefer to shop, the nearby Tanger Outlets serve as a retail haven, offering everything from designer goods to local crafts.

One of Bluffton’s most attractive qualities is its safety. Crime rates are comfortably below the national average, making it a solid choice. The community is tight-knit, and the growth in the area hasn’t come at the expense of safety—Bluffton has managed to maintain its small-town charm while expanding its offerings.

Families will find the schools here to be well-regarded, with several public and private options. College students and those seeking higher education opportunities can easily commute to the nearby University of South Carolina Beaufort or Savannah’s colleges. For healthcare, Bluffton has convenient access to top-tier facilities like Hilton Head Regional Medical Center and Coastal Carolina Hospital, making sure both routine care and emergencies are well-covered.

Outdoors enthusiasts will love Bluffton’s proximity to parks and nature preserves. The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge offers kayaking, bird-watching, and nature trails, while nearby state parks provide camping, hiking, and fishing. The May River itself is a playground for paddleboarders and boaters. Bluffton is home to some world-class courses, including the ones at Palmetto Bluff, a sprawling luxury resort that feels like it’s in another world. For sports fans, the proximity to Savannah opens up possibilities for catching minor league baseball, while collegiate sports are just a drive away.

Bluffton is unique because it strikes a balance. Live where the natural beauty of the Lowcountry complements a growing array of amenities. If you’re looking for a place that gives you access to both the laid-back lifestyle of coastal South Carolina and the energy of nearby cities, Bluffton should be on your radar. Your new home in Bluffton is waiting for you.

6. Fort Mill

• Population: 21.219
• Violent Crimes: 22
• Nonviolent Crimes: 233
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Fort Mill, South Carolina, is a gem for those in the know. Tucked right along the North Carolina border, Fort Mill sits just south of Charlotte—an easy drive for anyone craving the pulse of a big city without committing to its hustle every day. Columbia, the state’s capital, is about 90 miles away, but Charlotte’s looming skyline is what gives Fort Mill its edge.

What sets Fort Mill apart is its blend of small-town warmth and suburban vibrancy. It’s known for excellent schools, a low crime rate, and a unique ability to attract a variety of families. Fort Mill isn’t just safe—it’s significantly safer than most places. Crime rates here sit well below the national average, offering peace of mind in a world where that’s increasingly hard to come by. Fort Mill also makes the list of the 10 best cities to raise a family in South Carolina.

This quiet suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, is home to a number of major employers like Black and Decker and Daimler Trucks North America. Pack your bags because Fort Mill is one of the fastest growing communities in the state and its schools perform well above the national average.

Residents love the parks. The Anne Springs Close Greenway spans over 2,000 acres and offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing—essentially, a massive playground for kids and adults alike. The calm of nearby Lake Wylie is appealing. Kingsley, a cool mixed-use development with dining, shopping, and residential options is designed for a balanced lifestyle. The local dining scene has options ranging from farm-to-table spots to more casual Southern fare. Charlotte’s Panthers and Hornets are practically next door for pro sports, while Fort Mill holds its own with a variety of local events, including concerts and festivals that bring the community together.

The healthcare is solid, with Piedmont Medical Center nearby and major Charlotte hospitals just a short drive away. Fort Mill’s schools consistently rank among the best in the state, making it a magnet for families prioritizing education. High-quality healthcare, excellent schools, and proximity to top employers like LPL Financial and Movement Mortgage make Fort Mill feel more like an extension of Charlotte with all the advantages of a tight-knit community.

Why Fort Mill over its nearby rivals? It’s the sweet spot—big enough to have what you need but small enough to know your neighbors. For those looking to plant roots or find a place that’s both connected and quiet, it’s hard to find a better fit. Find your new home in Fort Mill.

7. Hanahan

• Population: 26,941
• Violent Crimes: 55
• Nonviolent Crimes: 345
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

The quaint town of Hanahan rests about 20 miles northwest of Charleston. Hanahan sits between the Cooper and Goose Creek rivers. It’s close enough to feel the pulse of Charleston’s historic streets but distant enough to offer a more relaxed pace. Positioned in Berkeley County, Hanahan is part of the Charleston-North Charleston metropolitan area.

Hanahan has a little bit of everything, making it a surprisingly appealing spot for families of any size and stage of life. It’s known for being safe, with crime rates significantly below the national average—this is a place where you can walk your dog in the evening and let your kids play in the neighborhood park without a second thought.

The city’s unique position along rivers and wetlands gives it a touch of natural beauty that’s hard to replicate in larger urban environments. Fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching are practically in your backyard, thanks to nearby spots like the Hanahan Amphitheater and the Goose Creek Reservoir.

There’s plenty of outdoor life to keep the weekends busy. Hanahan’s parks, including the well-loved Eubanks Park, offer playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The proximity to Charleston means you’re also a short drive from bigger attractions like the South Carolina Aquarium and historic plantations. Many are drawn to the expanding retail and dining scene. North Charleston’s Tanger Outlets are nearby for shopping.

Hanahan is close to cultural hubs like downtown Charleston, where museums, art galleries, and live performances abound, yet quiet enough for those who want to enjoy life at a slower pace. Nearby health care facilities, including Trident Medical Center and Roper St. Francis Berkeley Hospital, provide peace of mind, ensuring that quality medical care is never far away. Hanahan’s schools are part of the well-regarded Berkeley County School District, and higher education options like Charleston Southern University are just a short drive away.

Hanahan is close to everything you could want, with a quiet, safe atmosphere that’s ideal for anyone looking to enjoy the best of the Lowcountry without the chaos of the bigger cities. With its balance of natural beauty, convenient location, and growing amenities, Hanahan gives you room to breathe while still keeping you connected to all that the Charleston area has to offer. Your new home in Hanahan is waiting.

8. Central

• Population: 5,380
• Violent Crimes: 105
• Nonviolent Crimes: 136
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Central is located in the northwest corner of the state and derived its name from sitting midway between Atlanta and Charlotte. About 30 minutes from Greenville and a short drive to Clemson, it offers proximity to larger cities while maintaining its own, quieter charm. Located in Pickens County, Central sits right between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the lively academic pulse of Clemson University. Home to Southern Wesleyan University, Central is proud of the fact that many historical late 19th and early 20th century buildings still stand like sentinels along its tree-lined downtown streets.

For families, professionals, and retirees alike, Central offers a balance that’s hard to find. The crime rate here is notably lower than the national average, making it a safe place to plant roots, raise children, or simply enjoy peace and quiet. The pace is slower, but not stagnant. You’ll find historic rail depots turned into museums and a scattering of parks, with Nettles Park offering walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. For outdoor enthusiasts, you’re also a short drive from the hiking trails and lakes of nearby state parks like Table Rock and Keowee-Toxaway, where boating and fishing are local favorites.

Clemson University nearby adds vibrancy, with sporting events, college football weekends, and cultural performances. The dining here ranges from Southern comfort food to the occasional surprise of international cuisine. It’s a place where people linger over their meals, not rush through them.

Healthcare in Central is covered by nearby hospitals like Prisma Health in Clemson and the larger facilities in Anderson and Greenville. Schools are well-regarded, with Central benefitting from a tight-knit community that values education. Excellent higher education options are another draw.

Discover new homes in Central. If you are looking for a relaxed locale, this is a wonderful spot to put down roots!

9. Aiken

• Population: 30,922
• Violent Crimes Per Capita: 178
• Nonviolent Crimes Per Capita: 1,499
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Aiken, South Carolina, consistently ranks high on top 10 lists. It’s a safe, great place to raise a family. Nestled in the western part of the state, this authentic equestrian community is drenched in history. In the mid-1800s, the sleepy little town was founded around a stop of a new railroad from Charleston to the Savannah River.

It’s close enough to big cities like Augusta, Georgia, just 20 miles away. Known as the “Horse Capital of the South,” Aiken is famous for its equestrian culture. That nickname isn’t just a marketing gimmick—horse lovers, from casual riders to serious competitors, flock here for everything from polo matches to steeplechase events.

What sets Aiken apart isn’t just its love for horses, though that’s a big part of its identity. It’s the combination of Southern hospitality, a mild climate, and the accessibility of outdoor spaces. Aiken’s Hitchcock Woods, one of the largest urban forests in the country, offers endless miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking, and even bird-watching.

The city offers an eclectic mix of interests for all ages. There’s Hopelands Gardens, a 14-acre gem with live oak trees. The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-see for anyone curious about the city’s history with horse racing.

Crime? It’s relatively low, especially for a city of its size, with rates below the national average. That means you can walk downtown, pop into a local café, and feel comfortable no matter the time of day. Families might take comfort in that, as well as the highly-rated schools. Aiken’s public schools are solid, and for higher education, there’s the University of South Carolina Aiken, offering everything from undergraduate degrees to master’s programs. Healthcare is strong here, too, with Aiken Regional Medical Centers providing a full range of services, and larger hospitals like Augusta University Medical Center a short drive away.

When it comes to entertainment, Aiken surprises you. There are intimate music venues and galleries that keep the arts scene alive. For dining and shopping, the downtown area is a playground of independently owned boutiques and eateries. Whether you’re craving a good Southern meal or something a little more upscale, Aiken’s restaurants deliver. For sports enthusiasts, Augusta—just across the border—is home to professional golf and the famous Masters Tournament, but Aiken itself boasts local polo and horse events that you can’t find anywhere else.

Aiken feels like a city where you can carve out your own pace. Whether you’re here for the equestrian lifestyle, the parks, the growing job opportunities with employers like Savannah River Site, or just looking for a charming spot to slow down, it’s hard to find a place that beats Aiken. Start your search for a new home here.

10. Clover

• Population: 6,575
• Violent Crimes: 19
• Nonviolent Crimes: 157
• Most Common Crime: Larceny-Theft

Clover, South Carolina, sits quietly in the northern part of the state, not far from the North Carolina border. It’s a town with a small population, but it’s comfortably close to larger cities like Charlotte, North Carolina, just about 30 minutes away. Clover has earned the nickname “The Town with Love in the Middle” because of the literal placement of the word “love” in its name, and it’s a fitting description for a community that prides itself on being tight-knit and welcoming.

Clover is unique with its blend of history, safety, and the sense of community that’s hard to find in larger cities. The town has a relatively low crime rate, and its safety record is one of the reasons families, retirees, and professionals are drawn to it. In fact, Clover’s crime rate is below the national average, making it a secure place to settle down. The schools here are well-regarded, with the Clover School District consistently ranking highly in the state.

For entertainment, Clover offers more than meets the eye. There’s a modest selection of restaurants and local shops that provide a relaxed, Southern dining and shopping experience. Clover Community Park offers trails, sports fields, and picnic spots. Lake Wylie is just a stone’s throw away, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and watersports.

Join in on the fun at the Clover Highland Games and enjoy attending the town’s many festivals. For those interested in cultural and historical attractions, Clover is close enough to Charlotte to give residents access to museums, professional sports teams, and theater performances just across the border.

Healthcare is solid, with access to major medical facilities in nearby Rock Hill or Charlotte, giving residents peace of mind. With these resources, families, professionals, and retirees alike find Clover a balanced place to live—offering peace, safety, and convenience without the chaos of a bigger city. The cost of living is lower than many nearby areas, and the pace is perfect for those who want a bit of breathing room. Why are you waiting? Discover new homes in Clover today.

Data are taken from FBI U.S. crime statistics.