Charleston ranked highly in Travel + Leisure’s 2009 America’s Favorite Cities survey, but how did Charleston rank when compared to other cities on the list on safety? Out of 30 of America’s favorite cities, Charleston ranks #3 for safety.

How are these safety rankings created, T+L explains:

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But perception shapes travel just as much as hard facts do. Sure, Charleston has a relatively low crime rate—it was the No.6 safest U.S. city of the 30, according toDepartment of Justice (DOJ) stats for 2008 (the latest year for which statistics were available)—but most visitors are unaware of those numbers. So why do they feel safe in the South Carolina town?

“The city of Charleston places a high priority on the safety of visitors,” says Charleston’s mayor, Joe Riley, citing the city’s Walk and Talk Program, which has police officers patrolling on foot instead of just behind the wheel. “This interaction with residents, businesses, and visitors creates an opportunity to build rapport and trust.”

So which cities landed at the top of our list for safety? Places known for their cleanliness and friendly people—traits that can make visitors feel right at home—like Charleston, Austin, and Denver. Travelers are, not surprisingly, put at ease in cities with quintessentially small-town vibes.

Conversely, congested areas with towering skyscrapers, heavy traffic, pollution, and late-night shenanigans conjure images of dimly lit alleys—and violence. This may seem silly to some, but could very well explain whyLos Angeles and New York City appear in the bottom third of the list despite crime levels being low for their massive populations, according to the DOJ numbers.

And here’s what they had to say about Charleston, “While Charleston may rank low in diversity, southern hospitality shines through in the No.3 safest city. Voted equally friendly as they are attractive, residents seem to put visitors at ease with their pleasant demeanors…and good looks.”

What cities beat out Charleston? Portland, OR was the #1 safest city and Minneapolis/St. Paul came in second. Other cities that made the top 10 safest cities list include: Austin, TX; Sante Fe, NM; Denver, CO; Honolulu, HI; Nashville, TN and Seattle, WA.

So how do these rankings really make the list? T+L concludes, “People feel safer in urban settings that more seamlessly mesh suburban traits—and are more on edge in traditionally urban areas.”