Safest Places in South Carolina (2026): Cost to Own

February 2, 2026

6 minutes

Is South Carolina safe in 2025? Here’s where the answer is a bold YES.

Crime concerns are real-but so are your options. Families, retirees, and professionals are flocking to South Carolina's safest cities for one reason: peace of mind without compromise.

Cities like Tega Cay (0.21/1,000) and Fort Mill (0.83/1,000) boast crime rates drastically below the national average-proving you don’t have to trade safety for affordability.

In this data-driven guide, we reveal:

The 5+ safest cities in SC by crime rate

Median home prices & local highlights

Hidden safety havens like Mullins, Elgin & Hardeeville

How to save $15K+ on your dream home (no agent needed)

Let’s find your next home-smarter, safer, and commission-free.

South Carolina's Safest Cities - At a Glance

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The 5 Safest Cities in South Carolina in 2025

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:

Mullins, SC: A Quiet Safe Haven in Marion County

Low crime, low cost-Mullins offers peace on a budget.

With a violent crime rate significantly lower than the state average and a population under 5,000, Mullins is ideal for those craving small-town calm. Home prices hover near $180,000, and the cost of living is among the lowest in South Carolina.

Perfect for: Retirees, remote workers, and anyone avoiding city stress.

Elgin, SC: A Growing Family-Friendly Town

Safety, schools, and space make Elgin one of SC’s rising stars.

Elgin ranks high for community safety and suburban charm. With median home prices around $260,000 and strong school ratings, it’s quickly becoming a hotspot for young families relocating from Columbia or Charlotte.

Best for: First-time buyers, young families, and commuters.

Hardeeville, SC: Low Crime Meets High Growth

This hidden gem is turning heads with safety and opportunity.

Located near the Georgia border, Hardeeville is growing fast-but without the chaos. Its low crime stats, new developments, and affordable pricing (median homes under $280,000) make it a strong contender in 2025.

Ideal for: Investors, first-time buyers, and relocation seekers.

2. Fort Mill

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.

Before buying in Mount Pleasant or Fort Mill, understand how mortgage points can reduce your monthly payments-and how much you'll actually save.

3. Port Royal

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.

4. Bluffton

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.

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5. Tega Cay

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.

South Carolina closing costs catching you off guard? Avoid surprises with our Home Inspection Cost Breakdown.

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Home Prices in South Carolina’s Safest Cities Are Rising Fast - Should You Wait?

Buying now in South Carolina’s safest cities could save you $20K+ in 2025.

Home values are climbing-and the safest towns are leading the surge.

Mount Pleasant: $963,813 avg - up 4.1% YoY

Fort Mill: $540,000 avg - up 3.7%

Bluffton: $529,900 avg - up 2.8%

Tega Cay: $475,000 avg - holding steady, but inventory is shrinking fast

Why are prices rising?

Tight inventory in low-crime cities

Migration from out-of-state buyers

Strong job growth in suburban hubs

Bottom line? Wait too long and your monthly payment could jump by $200–$400. Buying now locks in value, location, and safety.

The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home in SC - And How to Dodge Them

Buying safe doesn’t mean paying extra-unless you fall into these traps.

1. Agent Commission

Traditional fee: 3% of home price = $9,000 on $300K

Avoid it: Use reAlpha’s zero-commission platform and keep that cash in your pocket.

2. Closing Costs

Appraisal, inspection, attorney, title: $5,000–$10,000 average

Solution: Compare lenders + negotiate seller credits

3. Property Taxes

Vary by city-some towns offer homestead exemptions or senior discounts

Tip: Check each county’s tax rate before making an offer

4. Homeowners Insurance

Premiums higher in coastal cities like Port Royal or Mount Pleasant

Save: Bundle policies, raise deductible, compare quotes

5. Repairs + Maintenance

Rule of thumb: 1% of home price/year

Plan ahead: Budget for it + consider a home warranty

Smart Buyer Tip

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Safety meets savings - on your terms.

Still house hunting in South Carolina? Don’t just buy safe - buy smart.

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FAQs

1. What are the safest cities to live in South Carolina in 2025?

Tega Cay, Fort Mill, and Bluffton top the list based on violent crime rates under 1 per 1,000. These cities also offer great schools and thriving communities.

2. Is South Carolina safe for families?

Yes - but city choice matters. Fort Mill and Elgin are family favorites due to their low crime, parks, and excellent schools.

3. Where is the safest place to retire in South Carolina?

Bluffton and Port Royal are top retirement picks, offering safety, affordable living, and access to healthcare and nature.

4. Are home prices rising in South Carolina's safest cities?

Absolutely. Places like Mount Pleasant and Fort Mill have seen steady price increases. Buying now avoids future costs.

5. Which small towns in South Carolina are safe?

Mullins, Elgin, and Hardeeville are safe, affordable towns ranking high in recent Google queries. Perfect for buyers seeking peace and low cost.

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Article by

Daniel Ares

As a great communicator with excellent negotiation skills, I focus more on establishing unbreakable ties between my clients, as opposed to just helping them achieve their real estate dreams. As a representative of both buyers and sellers, I understand how to lead a transaction process to ensure that the needs of both are met. My track record speaks for itself. Since I ventured into the industry in 2013 as a realtor, I have not only helped many buyers land perfect homes, but I have also assisted tons of owners and investors build wealth.


City	Violent Crime Rate	Median Home Price	Cost of Living	Best For
Tega Cay	0.21	$475,000	+0.4%	Families
Fort Mill	0.83	$540,000	-8%	Schools, Families
Bluffton	0.82	$529,900	-3%	Retirees, Culture
Port Royal	1.41	$392,500	-3%	Coastal, Budget
Mount Pleasant	1.40	$963,813	+16%	Luxury, Schools
Mullins	~0.90 (est.)	$180,000	-20%	Retirees, Quiet
Elgin	~1.10 (est.)	$260,000	-10%	Families, Suburbs
Hardeeville	~1.00 (est.)	$280,000	-5%	Growth, Commutes