Barnwell, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,613
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,006/yr
20.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,289
1.1% year-over-year change

Barnwell population

How many people live in Barnwell

Barnwell is home to 4,613 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.6% of Barnwell locals are male, and 52.4% are female.

Total population
4,613
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.6%
2,198
Female
52.4%
2,415
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,198 47.6% 3.0%
Female 2,415 52.4% -2.7%
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 is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 17% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.6% of the population, while another 21.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
17%
25 to 44
26.6%
45 to 64
21.4%
Over 65
16%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 870 18.9% -9.8%
15 to 24 786 17% -6.1%
25 to 44 1,229 26.6% 18.2%
45 to 64 989 21.4% 1.5%
Over 65 739 16% -7.6%
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, 91.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49% of locals are Caucasian, 46% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.7%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,204 91.1% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 263 5.7% 81.4%
Non-citizens 146 3.2% -25.1%
Racial breakdown
White
49%
Black or African American
46%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 2,261 49%
Black or African American 2,124 46%
American Indian and Alaska Native 25 0.5%
Asian 63 1.4%
Two or more races 140 3%

Households in Barnwell

A peek inside Barnwell households

Barnwell has 1,789 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.6% are families, while the remaining 38.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,789
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
687
Family households
1,102
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 687 38.4% -16.8%
Family households 1,102 61.6% 18.0%
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

The housing landscape of Barnwell

Barnwell's housing consists of 2,289 units, with 68.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.1% 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 13.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,289
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,565 68.4%
1 unit, attached 70 3.1%
2 units 20 0.9%
3 or 4 units 89 3.9%
5 to 9 units 131 5.7%
10 to 19 units 32 1.4%
20 to 49 units 30 1.3%
50 or more units 53 2.3%
Mobile home 299 13.1%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Barnwell

In Barnwell, the median construction year is 1970. About 16.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 387 16.9% 21.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 64 2.8% -12.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 239 10.4% -30.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 454 19.8% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 398 17.4% 50.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 464 20.3% -9.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 112 4.9% -9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 87 3.8% -20.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 84 3.7% 31.2%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 1,789 occupied housing units in Barnwell, 64.4% are owner-occupied, while 35.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,789
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
637
Owner occupied
1,152
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 637 35.6% 1.1%
Owner occupied 1,152 64.4% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
21.8%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Barnwell come to a median of $693 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $678.

Median housing costs per month
$693/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
$678/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

Barnwell education at a glance

About 57% of the population in Barnwell went to high school, while 13.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 9.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 162 4.6% -4.1%
High school diploma 1,990 57% -10.2%
College diploma 456 13.1% 40.7%
Associate degree 339 9.7% 59.9%
Bachelor's degree 331 9.5% 24.9%
Graduate degree 211 6% -13.5%
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

How much people earn in Barnwell

The average annual household income in Barnwell was $72,164 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +15.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,006, reflecting a +20.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Barnwell
$72,164/year
15.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Barnwell
$52,006/year
20.3% year-over-year change

Barnwell income by age

In Barnwell, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,116. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,865 overall. Overall, 76% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $80,116 62.6%
45 - 64 $70,865 N/A
Above poverty level
3,329
Below poverty level
1,054
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,329 76% 13.3%
Below poverty level 1,054 24% -28.0%

Average renter income in Barnwell

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Barnwell, their median household income was $12,257 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 66.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$12,257
Rent-to-income ratio
66.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Barnwell

Workforce and job types in Barnwell

The job market in Barnwell is powered by 1,891 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.8% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,891
10.8% year-over-year change
White collar
1,389
Blue collar
502
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,389 73.4% 14.5%
Blue collar 502 26.6% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
15.8%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
14.9%
Not for profit companies
4.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 298 15.8% 192.2%
Private companies 1,224 64.7% -4.1%
Governmental workers 281 14.9% 28.9%
Not for profit companies 88 4.6% -20.7%
Unemployment rate
13.8%
0.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Barnwell stands at 13.8%, 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

How people get around in Barnwell

In Barnwell, the average commute time is 24 minutes.

Commute time
24 min
9.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,713 94.8% 9.0%
Bus or trolleybus 37 2% 19.4%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29812 11,132 4,244 $51,870 $72,678

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FAQs about Barnwell demographics 

What is the total population of Barnwell?

Barnwell has a total population of 4,613 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Barnwell?

The gender ratio in Barnwell is as follows:
  • 47.6% males (2,198 residents)
  • 52.4% females (2,415 residents)

What is the median age in Barnwell?

The median age in Barnwell is 36.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Barnwell?

The age distribution in Barnwell is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (870 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17% (786 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.6% (1,229 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.4% (989 residents)
  • Over 65: 16% (739 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Barnwell?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Barnwell is as follows:
  • White: 49% (2,261 residents)
  • Black or African American: 46% (2,124 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (25 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (63 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (140 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.1% of the population in Barnwell.

How many housing units are there in Barnwell?

There are 2,289 housing units in Barnwell, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Barnwell has a total of 1,789 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Barnwell?

Barnwell has a median household income of $52,006, representing a +20.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 86.2% in Barnwell, with a workforce of 1,891 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.4% (1,389 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.6% (502 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.8% (298 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (1,224 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.9% (281 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.6% (88 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