Barnwell County, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
20,521
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,626/yr
11.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,927
0.3% year-over-year change

Barnwell County population

How many people live in Barnwell County

Barnwell County is home to 20,521 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Barnwell County locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
20,521
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
9,905
Female
51.7%
10,616
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,905 48.3% -0.5%
Female 10,616 51.7% 0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Barnwell County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.7% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 25% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.7%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
25%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,046 19.7% 0.4%
15 to 24 2,420 11.8% -7.4%
25 to 44 5,003 24.4% 4.1%
45 to 64 5,125 25% -1.9%
Over 65 3,927 19.1% 0.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Barnwell County, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.2% of locals are Caucasian, 42.8% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,748 96.2% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 444 2.2% 38.8%
Non-citizens 329 1.6% 11.2%
Racial breakdown
White
52.2%
Black or African American
42.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 10,716 52.2%
Black or African American 8,783 42.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.1%
Asian 120 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 569 2.8%
Other 302 1.5%

Households in Barnwell County

A peek inside Barnwell County households

Barnwell County has 8,116 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.1% are families, while the remaining 36.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,116
0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,997
Family households
5,119
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,997 36.9% -4.0%
Family households 5,119 63.1% 2.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Barnwell County

The housing landscape of Barnwell County

Barnwell County's housing consists of 9,927 units, with 58.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 32.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,927
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,799 58.4%
1 unit, attached 83 0.8%
2 units 128 1.3%
3 or 4 units 302 3%
5 to 9 units 194 2%
10 to 19 units 43 0.4%
20 to 49 units 36 0.4%
50 or more units 59 0.6%
Mobile home 3,255 32.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 28 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
66
37.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Barnwell County

In Barnwell County, the median construction year is 1983. About 6.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 663 6.7% 16.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 194 2% -0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 882 8.9% -6.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,026 10.3% -11.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,567 15.8% 19.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,346 23.6% 8.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,843 18.6% -2.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 908 9.2% -18.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 432 4.4% -15.1%
Built in 2020 or later 66 0.7% 37.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Barnwell County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,116 occupied housing units in Barnwell County, 70.9% are owner-occupied, while 29.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,116
0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,359
Owner occupied
5,757
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,359 29.1% 0.4%
Owner occupied 5,757 70.9% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
18.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Barnwell County housing costs

Housing costs in Barnwell County come to a median of $685 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $740.

Median housing costs per month
$685/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Barnwell County
$740/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Barnwell County

Barnwell County education at a glance

About 51.3% of the population in Barnwell County went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 7.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 948 6.1% -13.8%
High school diploma 8,028 51.3% -4.2%
College diploma 2,925 18.7% 6.8%
Associate degree 1,761 11.2% 9.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,229 7.8% 0.5%
Graduate degree 760 4.9% 16.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Barnwell County

How much people earn in Barnwell County

The average annual household income in Barnwell County was $66,517 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,626, reflecting a +11.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Barnwell County
$66,517/year
7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Barnwell County
$46,626/year
11.6% year-over-year change

Barnwell County income by age

In Barnwell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,571. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,797 overall. Overall, 75.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,571 42.9%
45 - 64 $67,797 4.0%
Over 65 $33,194 2.2%
Above poverty level
14,968
Below poverty level
4,960
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,968 75.1% 5.0%
Below poverty level 4,960 24.9% -12.6%

Employment in Barnwell County

Workforce and job types in Barnwell County

The job market in Barnwell County is powered by 8,704 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 69.4% are employed by private companies, and 18.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,704
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
5,893
Blue collar
2,811
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,893 67.7% 7.2%
Blue collar 2,811 32.3% -5.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
69.4%
Governmental workers
18.6%
Not for profit companies
3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 782 9% 15.7%
Private companies 6,043 69.4% 2.2%
Governmental workers 1,620 18.6% 4.3%
Not for profit companies 259 3% -23.8%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
0.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Barnwell County stands at 7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Barnwell County

How people get around in Barnwell County

In Barnwell County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,837 92% 1.7%
Taxicab 21 0.2% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 187 2.2% -7.4%
Motorcycle 13 0.2% 8.3%
Bicycle 7 0.1% -58.8%
Walk 47 0.6% 14.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Barnwell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29812 11,132 4,244 $51,870 $72,678
29817 4,139 1,676 $41,579 $63,754
29826 241 65 $0 $60,900
29836 326 165 $0 $87,771
29843 934 381 $35,986 $45,269
29849 271 94 $89,583 $95,370
29853 5,944 2,485 $44,983 $60,491

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FAQs about Barnwell County demographics 

What is the total population of Barnwell County?

Barnwell County has a total population of 20,521 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Barnwell County?

The gender ratio in Barnwell County is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (9,905 residents)
  • 51.7% females (10,616 residents)

What is the median age in Barnwell County?

The median age in Barnwell County is 40.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Barnwell County?

The age distribution in Barnwell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.7% (4,046 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (2,420 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (5,003 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25% (5,125 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (3,927 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Barnwell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Barnwell County is as follows:
  • White: 52.2% (10,716 residents)
  • Black or African American: 42.8% (8,783 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (120 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (569 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (302 residents)

What percentage of the population in Barnwell County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Barnwell County.

How many housing units are there in Barnwell County?

There are 9,927 housing units in Barnwell County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Barnwell County and what is the average household size?

Barnwell County has a total of 8,116 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Barnwell County?

Barnwell County has a median household income of $46,626, representing a +11.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Barnwell County?

The employment rate is 93% in Barnwell County, with a workforce of 8,704 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.7% (5,893 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.3% (2,811 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (782 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.4% (6,043 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.6% (1,620 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3% (259 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025