Charleston, SC Home Security Guide
Detailed crime statistics, neighborhood safety scores, and local security companies for Charleston. Population: 156,042 residents.
43 per 1,000
6.1 per 1,000
36.9 per 1,000
Higher Than Average Crime
Charleston has a crime rate 32% higher than the South Carolina state average. A home security system is strongly recommended.
Moderate
Safety Score
Protect Your Charleston Home
Given the area's crime rates, a monitored security system is highly recommended
Compare Security SystemsCharleston Crime Statistics (2024)
Violent Crime
6.10 per 1,000Property Crime
36.90 per 1,000Source: FBI Uniform Crime Report. Crime rates are expressed per 1,000 residents.
Your Chance of Being a Victim in Charleston
any crime
1 in 23
violent crime
1 in 165
property crime
1 in 27
motor vehicle_theft
1 in 188
Charleston Neighborhoods
Safest Neighborhoods
Daniel Island
Safety: 78/100
South of Broad
Safety: 72/100
James Island
Safety: 64/100
Popular Neighborhoods
Downtown Charleston
Safety: 38/100
The historic downtown area sees high tourist foot traffic. Property crime, especially vehicle break-ins and petty theft, is the primary concern.
Mount Pleasant
Safety: 74/100
West Ashley
Safety: 45/100
Higher Risk Areas
North Charleston
Safety: 14/100
Chicora-Cherokee
Safety: 18/100
Security Companies Serving Charleston
No local security companies found near Charleston. These national providers serve the area:
Security Companies Serving Charleston
Most Common Crimes in Charleston
Security Recommendations for Charleston
Essential
Recommended
Nice to Have
Frequently Asked Questions About Charleston Home Security
Is Charleston safe?
Charleston has a safety score of 46 out of 100, driven mainly by elevated property crime. Violent crime is moderate. Neighborhoods like Daniel Island, South of Broad, and Mount Pleasant are considerably safer than the city average.
What is the crime rate in Charleston?
Charleston has an overall crime rate of 43.0 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime is 6.1 per 1,000 and property crime is 36.9 per 1,000. Property crime is the primary concern, running about 32% above the state average.
What are the safest neighborhoods in Charleston?
Daniel Island (score 78), Mount Pleasant (score 74), and South of Broad (score 72) are the safest areas. James Island also scores above average at 64.
What are the most common crimes in Charleston?
Theft and larceny lead with over 4,200 incidents per year. Vehicle break-ins, motor vehicle theft, residential burglary, and aggravated assault round out the most common offenses.
What home security company should I use in Charleston?
Palmetto Security Group, Carolina Alarm, and Sonitrol of Charleston are well-rated local providers. National companies ADT, Vivint, and SimpliSafe also serve the Charleston area.
Do I need an alarm permit in Charleston?
Yes. The City of Charleston requires alarm system permits with an annual fee. False alarm fines escalate after repeated dispatches. Contact the Charleston Police Department for current requirements.
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
Charleston's crime rates make home security a smart investment. Compare your options.
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