What are the Most Dangerous Cities in South Carolina?

From historic Charleston to the sun-soaked beaches of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is known for its southern hospitality, scenic coastlines, and rich cultural history. But beneath the Palmetto State’s inviting charm lies a harsher truth—its crime rates, both violent and property-related, are climbing higher than the national average. This unsettling trend has led many residents to take a closer look at their personal safety and explore stronger protection measures.

As concern grows, so does the demand for reliable South Carolina home security. That’s where EMC Security comes in. With deep roots in Georgia and trusted experience throughout the Southeast, EMC Security is helping families across South Carolina feel safe in a time when knowing the most dangerous cities in South Carolina is more than just trivia—it’s essential awareness. Keep reading to find out which cities top the list in 2025, and how you can take action to keep your home and loved ones secure.

5 of South Carolina’s Most Dangerous Cities in 2025

• Spartanburg
• Anderson
• Greenville
• Laurens
• Union

Does South Carolina Have Lots of Crime?

South Carolina is known for its charm. But crime in many areas is making some residents feel uneasy. The facts support those fears. Both violent and property crime rates are above the national average. That’s why people are taking a closer look at South Carolina home security.

Crime Statisticsin South Carolina

Let’s break it down with the latest available data:

What This Means for Residents

• Some areas have far higher rates than others.
• In growing towns, theft and break-ins are more common.
• Many people feel crime is getting worse—even when data stays flat.
• News coverage and social media often heighten this fear.

This mix of perception and reality is leading more homeowners to act. Many now seek clear, simple ways to protect their space.

Why Localized Data Matters

Not all cities are equal when it comes to crime. A safe street in one town may be blocks from a high-risk zone. That’s why personalized protection is so important. EMC Security builds systems based on where you live and what you need.

Most Dangerous Cities in SC

The Upstate region of South Carolina blends Southern charm with modern growth. But with rapid change comes rising risk. Several cities in this area are now among the most dangerous cities in South Carolina, prompting many families to rethink how they protect their homes.

Below is a closer look at crime in key Upstate cities—and how smart tools like security cameras and alarm systems can make a difference.

Spartanburg

Crime Rate: 81.85 per 1,000 people

Main Concerns: Theft and burglary are high, and growth is outpacing law enforcement staffing.

Community Response: Local programs aim to improve lighting, patrols, and youth outreach.

Security Tips:

• Install home alarm systems for early alerts.
• Add video doorbells to see who’s outside, even when you’re not home.
• EMC Security offers mobile access and fast alerts for added peace of mind.

Anderson

Main Concerns: Property crime remains high. Drug activity is a growing concern in some areas.

Community Response: Neighborhood watch groups and improved lighting have helped.

Security Tips:

• A fire alarm system is key for both homes and apartment units.
• Smart locks can reduce risk and help you track who comes and goes.
• EMC’s smart systems let you manage it all from one app.
• Great for families who want more control without the hassle.

Greenville

Main Concerns: As the city grows, crime rates rise—especially break-ins and car theft.

Community Response: Police have increased patrols and public safety talks.

Security Tips:

• Buy security cameras to watch your home day and night.
• EMC’s cameras offer night vision, cloud storage, and mobile access.
• Add smart plugs and lights to create the look of someone always home.
• Greenville SC homeowners are investing in South Carolina home security more than ever before.

Laurens

Main Concerns: Though small, the city has a high crime rate for its size.

Community Response: Local police work hard but face limited resources.

Security Tips:

• EMC’s color touchscreen keypad offers simple control.
• Tamper alerts and Alexa voice features bring peace of mind.
• Ideal for families wanting a DIY install or help from pros.

Union, SC

While not a main Upstate focus, Union, SC deserves a mention:

Crime Rate: 92.45 per 1,000 people—the highest in the state.

Why It Matters: Even smaller towns face real threats.

Security Tips:

• EMC can scale systems from small homes to full campuses.
• A custom home security plan makes sense no matter your ZIP code.

Upstate South Carolina is growing fast. But so are safety concerns. Knowing which areas top the list of the most dangerous cities in South Carolina is the first step. Taking action with smart, easy-to-use security cameras, alarms, and automation from EMC Security is the next.

You don’t have to wait for something to go wrong. EMC is here to help you stay ahead.

What Makes These Cities So Dangerous?

Some cities in South Carolina face more than their share of risk. But it’s not just about crime. Many deeper issues make these places harder to keep safe.

Why Crime Stays High in Some Areas

Several factors feed into the numbers. These issues are hard to fix and often build on each other over time:

• Poverty and job loss
  Less income often means more crime and fewer safety resources.
• Lack of strong policing
  Some towns can’t fund full patrols or community programs.
• Outdated safety tools
  Many homes and businesses don’t have modern alarms or cameras.
• Fast population growth
  More people can stretch a town’s safety systems too thin.

Pro Tips to Protect Yourself in SC’s Riskiest Areas

Living in a high-risk area doesn’t mean you have to live in fear. A few smart steps can help you feel more in control. These tools and habits make it harder for crime to reach your door—and easier for you to rest easy.

Top Safety Tips for South Carolina Homes

These safety ideas are simple. But they work. And most of them take less than a day to put in place:

• Install home alarm systems that alert you and the authorities in real time
• Add motion sensor lights to catch unwanted guests before they get too close
• Use IR night vision cameras to spot trouble in the dark
• Buy security cameras with cloud video storage so you never lose footage
• Set up video doorbells to monitor visitors or package drop-offs
• Upgrade to smart locks to keep entry points tight and secure
• Install a fire alarm system that also detects carbon monoxide

The Power of Prevention

One of the best ways to stay safe is to make your home a hard target. People who break into homes don’t like visible cameras or loud alarms. Even simple signs can stop a break-in before it starts.

When security is easy to see, most criminals move on.

EMC Security Makes It Easy

EMC Security gives South Carolina families the tools they need—without the hassle. No long-term contracts. No wires to run through your walls. Just smart, simple tools that work:

• Wireless alarm systems with mobile access
• Professional-grade video gear that’s easy to install
• 24/7 monitoring from a trusted name in the Southeast

From small homes to large ones, EMC builds custom setups that fit your needs. Whether you rent or own, these tools help protect what matters most.

A Powerful Partnership Strengthening Security Across South Carolina

In a state where safety is top of mind—especially in areas with higher crime rates—the partnership between EMC Security and ProTec, in collaboration with Laurens Electric, is bringing a much-needed boost to home and business security across South Carolina.

EMC Security, well-known in Georgia for its flexible, no-contract approach and comprehensive service offerings, has teamed up with ProTec to extend its trusted solutions into the Palmetto State. This partnership, backed by the local support of Laurens Electric, means customers in South Carolina now have access to advanced security technologies—like AI-powered video surveillance, smart home integration, and medical alert systems—delivered with local, in-person service from offices in Greenville.

Together, these companies are enhancing response times, expanding commercial-grade security options, and simplifying the customer experience with benefits like 0% interest financing and utility-bill integration. Whether you’re protecting your home or business, this collaboration offers South Carolina residents a powerful combination of cutting-edge tools and hometown support—all without locking you into long-term contracts.

Is Greenville, South Carolina a dangerous city?

Greenville, South Carolina has a higher-than-average crime rate, especially for property crimes like theft and burglary.

Is Spartanburg, South Carolina a dangerous city?

Spartanburg is considered one of the more dangerous cities in South Carolina, with a crime rate of 81.85 per 1,000 residents.

Is Anderson, South Carolina a dangerous city?

Anderson has moderately high crime, with property crime and drug-related activity common in several neighborhoods.

Is Laurens, South Carolina a dangerous city?

Laurens has a small population but a high per capita crime rate, making it one of the riskier towns in the Upstate area.

Is Clemson, South Carolina a dangerous city?

Clemson has a lower crime rate compared to other cities in the Upstate. It is not considered a particularly dangerous city.

Peace of Mind Starts with EMC Security

When safety is a top concern, having the right tools can make all the difference. If you live in Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, or Laurens, EMC Security is here to help you take control of your home’s protection.

We offer a full range of services:

• Home safety: fire and CO alerts, video doorbells, and smart locks
• Surveillance: indoor and outdoor security cameras with live and recorded views
• Monitoring: 24/7 support and emergency response when you need it most
• Custom fit: DIY or pro install, no contracts, and free quotes

We serve homes and businesses across Georgia and support nearby South Carolina families who want simple, strong protection. Whether you’re ready to buy security cameras, install home alarms, or build a full fire alarm system, our team can help create a system that fits your space and your life.

Want to know how each piece of a system works? Take a look at the security system parts that keep your home covered. Locked into a long deal? Learn how to spot a bad contract before it’s too late. And don’t miss our checklist of spring safety tips to keep your home ready year-round.

Protect your home and loved ones—whether you live in Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, or Laurens.

Contact EMC Security today to build a custom security solution that fits your life and your budget.