5 Safest Cities in South Carolina in 2025

South Carolina is home to some of the safest cities in America, like Tega Cay, which has a 0.21 violent crime rate per 1,000 residents. Similarly, Fort Mill experiences only 0.83 violent crimes per 1,000 people. These are far below the national average of 4.0 per 1,000.

If you're considering moving to South Carolina in 2025, knowing where you’re safe and where you’re not isn’t just smart, it’s important. That’s why we’ve ranked the 5 safest places in South Carolina where you can enjoy peace of mind, a high quality of life, and a community you can trust.

After comparing crime rates in South Carolina, a few cities stand out for their low crime risk. Here are some of the safest cities in South Carolina:

Mount Pleasant, with a population of approximately 96,567, has a violent crime rate of just 1.4 per 1,000 residents and an overall crime rate of 14.6 per 1,000 residents. This city offers a mix of suburban tranquility and urban amenities, making it an attractive place to live.

The median home price in Mount Pleasant is around $963,813, reflecting its desirability. The cost of living is 16% higher than the national average. However, the city's safety, excellent schools, and proximity to Charleston's cultural attractions justify the premium.

Mount Pleasant's economy is robust, with a low unemployment rate of 2.80% and a diverse job market. Emerging sectors include technology, healthcare, and tourism, providing ample employment opportunities.

Fort Mill, home to about 36,438 residents, has a violent crime rate of 0.83 per 1,000 residents and an overall crime rate of 6.84 per 1,000 residents. The city is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong community ties.

The median home price in Fort Mill is approximately $540,000, indicating a growing real estate market. The cost of living is 8% lower than the national average, but the city's safety and quality amenities make it a worthwhile investment.

Safety is a top priority in Fort Mill, with proactive law enforcement. The city has great schools, various parks, and lots of cultural events. All this makes Fort Mill one of the safest cities to live in South Carolina.

Port Royal is not only known for its scenic waterfront but also for its safety record. With a population of approximately 16,881, the violent crime rate averaged around 1.41 incidents per 1,000 people. Besides safety, this town is famous for its historic sites and coastal beauty.

The median home price in Port Royal is around $392,500, making it an affordable option for homebuyers. With a cost of living 3% below the national average, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without incurring high expenses.

Bluffton ranks highly on safety lists due to its low crime rates and vibrant community life. With a population of approximately 37,544, it has a violent crime rate of 0.82 per 1,000 residents and an overall crime rate of 11.12 per 100,000 residents. This town offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.

The median home price in Bluffton is about $529,900, and the cost of living is 3% lower than the national average. Plus, the town's safety and quality of life make it a desirable place to live.

Tega Cay, with a population of around 14,434, has a violent crime rate of 0.21 per 1,000 residents and an overall crime rate of 9.25 per 1,000 residents.

The median home price in Tega Cay is around $475,000 and the cost of living is 0.4% higher than the national average. However, the median household income is $141,037, offering a comfortable lifestyle with a high income.

South Carolina attracts homebuyers with its safety, affordability, and economic opportunity. Tega Cay is a prime example, boasting low crime rates, reasonable costs, and high incomes. As the real estate market grows, buyers should consider purchasing soon to take advantage of current conditions.

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In 2025, South Carolina's real estate market is experiencing steady growth. The average home value stands at $377,900, reflecting a 1.7% increase over the past year.

Factors such as limited housing inventory and sustained demand contribute to this trend. Experts predict that home prices will continue to rise moderately throughout the year.

For potential buyers, this suggests that buying a home now could save huge money. If they wait, prices might rise and competition could get tougher.

Purchasing a home involves more than just the sale price, several hidden costs can catch buyers off guard. In South Carolina, these expenses often include:

• Agent Commission: Traditional real estate agents charge a 3% commission on the home’s price. This can add up to thousands of dollars. Instead, use a commission-free platform like reAlpha. It removes agent fees, that's $9,000 on a $300,000 home.

• Closing Costs: These fees cover appraisals, inspections, title searches, and attorney services. You should shop around for lenders with lower fees. Also, negotiate some costs with the seller.
• Property Taxes: Varying by location, these annual taxes are based on the assessed value of the property. Research local tax rates before buying and check for tax exemptions, such as homestead exemptions, that can lower your tax burden.
• Homeowners Insurance: Lenders usually require this coverage, with premiums depending on factors like home value and location. Get quotes from different insurance companies. Bundle policies for discounts. If possible, choose a higher deductible to lower your monthly costs.

• Maintenance and Repairs: Ongoing upkeep costs, including unexpected repairs, can add up over time. Set aside at least 1% of your home's value annually for maintenance and consider a home warranty plan to cover major system failures.

Buying a home in a secure, high-quality neighborhood isn’t just about location—it’s about how you get there. Most buyers unknowingly lose thousands in outdated agent commissions, hidden fees, and confusing processes.

With reAlpha, you skip the 3% agent commission and save big—up to $12,000 on a $400K home. That’s money you can reinvest into your future—whether it’s renovations, lowering your mortgage, or building wealth.

And when it comes to financing, Be My Neighbor gives you what traditional lenders don’t: clarity, care, and connection. Whether you're eyeing Mount Pleasant, Fort Mill, or anywhere in between, we guide you like a neighbor would—not like a salesperson.

• Get smart, commission-free home buying with reAlpha

• Explore mortgage options made for humans with Be My Neighbor

Because safety isn’t just about where you live—it’s about who walks with you on the way.

Let’s find your home the smarter, more human way.

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But if you're also keeping a close eye on your budget, don't worry—we’ve got you. Our guide to the most affordable places to live in South Carolina shows you where safety and savings go hand in hand.

And if you're still weighing your options, wondering whether to rent or buy, you're not the only one asking that question right now. Our Rent vs. Buy comparison breaks down the pros, cons, and long-term trade-offs—so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.

Crime rates, economic stability, school ratings, and community engagement are key factors. Cities like Mount Pleasant and Fort Mill have low crime, strong job markets, and family-friendly amenities, making them top choices.

Yes, but safety varies by city. While some areas have higher crime rates, cities like Bluffton and Tega Cay offer low crime, excellent public services, and strong community involvement.

Yes. Home values in safer cities like Mount Pleasant and Fort Mill have gone up. This rise is due to high demand, strong local economies, and great amenities. So, buying a home in SC now is a smart move.

Save Big when you Buy a Home with reAlpha!

Discover how our all-in-one homebuying platform can increase your buying power and put money back in your pocket. Start your journey today!

Sign up for free