Crime and Pollution in Charleston

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Charleston are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 17 user contributions.

This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Charleston.

Crime Data in Charleston

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Charleston, WV experiences a moderate overall crime level, with a notable concern over property crimes and drug-related issues.

Public safety perceptions shift throughout the day, with residents feeling significantly safer during daylight hours than at night.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesProperty crimes, including break-ins and thefts, are seen as a major concern in Charleston, contributing to a sense of unease among residents.
  • Drug-Related IssuesDrug-related issues are a significant problem in Charleston, with the public highly concerned about how these crimes impact community safety and quality of life.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes are a lesser concern compared to property crimes, but there is still apprehension about potential assaults and robberies.
  • Public SafetyDuring the day, Charleston's residents feel more secure, finding the environment generally conducive to their routines. However, safety concerns heighten after dark, with an increase in fear of potential crimes.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsThere is a strong perception that crime rates, particularly property and drug crimes, are on the rise in Charleston, impacting community sentiments towards overall safety.
  • Specific FearsSpecific fears include car-related thefts and break-ins, as well as drug-related offenses. Concerns about being attacked or insulted are less pronounced.
Worldwide
United States

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for the United States is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Crime Rankings

Pollution Data in Charleston

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Charleston shows impressive air quality improvements in 2024, with minimal pollution levels enhancing the city's overall environmental health.

Despite these advancements, concerns continue regarding the effects of seasonal and industrial emissions that might influence air quality intermittently.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)PM2.5 levels in Charleston are well within safe limits, indicating a low risk for health complications linked to fine particulates, supporting the city's clean air efforts.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)PM10 levels also fall within a safe range, contributing to the city's positive pollution profile, though they can be influenced by various environmental factors.
Waste and Noise Pollution

While noise and light pollution are generally not major issues in Charleston, there are mixed reviews regarding garbage disposal and city cleanliness.

Efforts should focus on improving waste management systems to tackle these concerns comprehensively.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionResidents express dissatisfaction with garbage disposal practices, suggesting a pressing need for enhanced waste management solutions.
  • Noise and Light PollutionCharleston experiences minimal noise and light pollution issues, providing a relatively peaceful urban environment.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Charleston's green spaces receive high praise from the community, acting as vital hubs for relaxation and ecological benefits.

The quality of drinking water in Charleston remains outstanding, with residents expressing satisfaction with its accessibility and purity.

  • Green and Parks QualityThe city's parks and green spaces are highly valued, offering an excellent standard of environmental quality and recreational benefit.
  • Drinking Water QualityCharleston's drinking water is of exceptional quality, ensuring residents rely on safe and accessible water resources.
Worldwide
United States

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.
Hightest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025
Full Pollution Rankings