Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Carolina
While South Carolina is known for its charm and hospitality, it also has its share of cities grappling with high crime rates. In this list, we'll explore the ten most dangerous cities in South Carolina based on crime statistics, shedding light on areas where crime rates are a concern.
1. Orangeburg, South Carolina
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Population: 12,529
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,731 (Most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 6,560 (Fourth most dangerous)
Despite its charming nickname as "The Garden City" and being home to prestigious institutions like South Carolina State University and Claflin University, Orangeburg has the highest violent crime rate in the state. With 177 assaults reported among its residents, Orangeburg faces a significant crime challenge. The city is also remembered for the tragic Orangeburg Massacre in 1968 during the Civil Rights movement.
2. Darlington, South Carolina
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Population: 5,895
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,594 (Second most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 6,344 (Sixth most dangerous)
Darlington, known for its tobacco farms and NASCAR races, faces issues with property crime, making it the third most dangerous city in South Carolina. With more than one car theft per month, Darlington residents grapple with property crime challenges.
3. Florence, South Carolina
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Population: 38,597
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,456 (Third most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 6,192 (Seventh most dangerous)
Located in the Pee Dee region, Florence struggles with crime, particularly burglary. The city recorded the eighth-highest burglary rate statewide, averaging just over one break-in per day. In 2020, Florence reported 562 violent crimes, indicating a rising tide of crime.
4. Spartanburg, South Carolina
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Population: 37,469
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,430 (Fourth most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 6,101 (Eighth most dangerous)
Spartanburg, nestled in the northwest corner of the state, ranks as the fifth most dangerous place to live in South Carolina in 2022. Despite its natural attractions like the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, the city faces challenges in preserving resident safety, with more than one burglary occurring daily on average.
5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
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Population: 35,658+
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,379 (Fifth most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 8,716 (Most dangerous)
Myrtle Beach, a beloved East Coast holiday destination, grapples with property crime rates that are a cause for concern. In 2020, residents had a 1 in 11 chance of being a victim of theft or damage, making Myrtle Beach the city with the highest overall crime rate in South Carolina, well above the national average. The city has also witnessed chilling crimes in its history.
6. Greenwood, South Carolina
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Population: 23,422
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,272 (Sixth most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,324 (14th most dangerous)
Despite hosting festivals like the Festival of Discovery and the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood faces challenges with violent crime, particularly rape cases. In Greenwood, a violent crime is almost a daily occurrence.
7. Georgetown, South Carolina
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Population: 8,697
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,241 (Eighth most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,634 (13th most dangerous)
Georgetown, the state's third oldest city, boasts a rich history but faces problems related to crime. It ranks high on the list of the worst places to live in South Carolina due to various issues, including property crime.
8. Hartsville, South Carolina
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Population: 7,519
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,170 (13th most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,984 (Ninth most dangerous)
Hartsville maintains its position as the eighth most dangerous city in South Carolina. While it did not record a single murder in 2020, it still had the 13th highest rate of violent crime in the state, indicating ongoing crime challenges, especially property crime.
9. Marion, South Carolina
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Population: 6,268
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,260 (Seventh most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 5,009 (16th most dangerous)
Marion, located inland from Myrtle Beach, grapples with a significant crime problem despite its small-town charm. High rates of burglaries and robberies contribute to its ranking as the ninth most dangerous spot in South Carolina.
10. West Columbia, South Carolina
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Population: 18,143
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Violent Crimes Per 100k: 777 (21st most dangerous)
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Property Crimes Per 100k: 8,014 (Second most dangerous)
Crossing the Congaree River from the state capital Columbia, you'll find West Columbia. While it offers proximity to various amenities, it faces higher crime rates. Property crime represents a significant issue in West Columbia, ranking as the second highest in the state.
These cities highlight the importance of considering safety when choosing a place to live or visit in South Carolina, as they grapple with various crime challenges.