Safety in Central SC

Safety You Can Count On

Families can count on safety in Central SC. Cities within our Region consistently rank high for safety, and crime rates are relatively low in our suburbs and rural regions. Irmo, Lexington, and Chapin, all suburbs of Columbia, were ranked among the safest cities in South Carolina by Niche in 2021. Friendly neighbors are sure to offer support whenever you need it. Our positive community atmosphere and welcoming environment are fueled by the Southern hospitality of our residents. Here, you’re never a stranger – and you’ll always have friends looking out for you.

Quick Links

Find Your Job

Ready to make your move to Central SC? Browse our jobs board to take the next step in finding your dream career.

Get Started

#2

Safest City in South Carolina (Irmo)

Niche 2021

#3

Safest City in South Carolina (Lexington)

Niche 2021
A group of people gathered at the Columbia Food and Wine Festival in the Central SC Region

Safety in Columbia, SC

The Columbia Police Department is an integral part of the community. Keeping the community and our citizens safe is their top priority, and they are constantly working hard to maintain a high-standard and keep people out of harm’s way. Visit the Columbia Police Department site to learn more.

An aerial image of Lake Murray with a scenic sunset and small peninsula of houses in the Central SC Region

Highest-Ranked Towns and Cities for Safety

Two of the highest-ranked towns for safety in Central SC are Irmo (#2) and Lexington (#3). Irmo, a small town on the border of Lexington and Richland Counties, is just 10 miles from the capital city of Columbia. With low housing costs, plenty of parks and opportunities for outdoor recreation, Irmo offers a small-town atmosphere with access to big-city amenities. Lexington, located in Lexington County, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the region. Families, young graduates and retirees all flock to this city thanks to its ideal location and thriving downtown district. 

Featured News & Stories

Browse our latest news and read about our ambassadors to see what life is really like in Central SC.

May 25, 2022

Business program expands with five new concentrations (Newberry College)

NEWBERRY — Newberry College’s business administration program will introduce five innovative concentrations this fall. Students in one of the institution’s largest areas of study will now be able to specialize their education to meet some of the 21st century’s greatest demands. The concentrations, all available within the business administration major, include business management and leadership, finance and […]

May 18, 2022

Benedict College first in nation to join Veteran Affairs’ healthcare studies program

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Undergraduate students at Columbia’s Benedict College now have another way to explore possible careers in the health care field since the college recently agreed to participate in the US Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veteran Health Administration Health Care Talent Academy (HCTA). The program introduces students to careers in the Veteran’s Healthcare System with courses meant to […]

More Stories