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

Total population
246,802
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$84,358/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
100,600
3.2% year-over-year change

Berkeley County population

How many people live in Berkeley County

Berkeley County is home to 246,802 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Berkeley County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
246,802
3.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
122,894
Female
50.2%
123,908
Value Percent YoY change
Male 122,894 49.8% 3.3%
Female 123,908 50.2% 3.4%
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 Berkeley County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 13.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.3% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
13.3%
25 to 44
28.3%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
14.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 48,117 19.5% 2.2%
15 to 24 32,776 13.3% 3.5%
25 to 44 69,767 28.3% 4.0%
45 to 64 59,527 24.1% 2.3%
Over 65 36,615 14.8% 5.5%
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 Berkeley County, 91.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62.4% of locals are Caucasian, 23% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.9%
Non-citizens
3.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 225,558 91.4% 2.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,132 4.9% 2.5%
Non-citizens 9,112 3.7% 21.1%
Racial breakdown
White
62.4%
Black or African American
23%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.9%
Other
3.6%
Value Percent
White 154,062 62.4%
Black or African American 56,699 23%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,205 0.5%
Asian 6,365 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 151 0.1%
Two or more races 19,441 7.9%
Other 8,879 3.6%

Households in Berkeley County

A peek inside Berkeley County households

Berkeley County has 93,711 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68% are families, while the remaining 32% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
93,711
3.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
30,009
Family households
63,702
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 30,009 32% 6.7%
Family households 63,702 68% 2.4%
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 Berkeley County

The housing landscape of Berkeley County

Berkeley County's housing consists of 100,600 units, with 65.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 13.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
100,600
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 66,089 65.7%
1 unit, attached 4,600 4.6%
2 units 1,082 1.1%
3 or 4 units 1,712 1.7%
5 to 9 units 2,800 2.8%
10 to 19 units 3,959 3.9%
20 to 49 units 3,704 3.7%
50 or more units 2,858 2.8%
Mobile home 13,647 13.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 149 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
8,776
77.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Berkeley County

In Berkeley County, the median construction year is 2002. About 1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 23.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 8.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,003 1% 20.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 695 0.7% 11.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,259 2.2% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,315 5.3% -3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,245 10.2% -2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14,909 14.8% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 12,136 12.1% -10.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 21,862 21.7% 0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 23,400 23.3% 2.7%
Built in 2020 or later 8,776 8.7% 77.0%
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.

Berkeley County occupancy rates

Out of the 93,711 occupied housing units in Berkeley County, 74.6% are owner-occupied, while 25.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
93,711
3.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
23,850
Owner occupied
69,861
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 23,850 25.4% 1.9%
Owner occupied 69,861 74.6% 4.3%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

Berkeley County housing costs

Housing costs in Berkeley County come to a median of $1,393 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,654.

Median housing costs per month
$1,393/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 Berkeley County
$1,654/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 Berkeley County

Berkeley County education at a glance

About 36% of the population in Berkeley County went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 19.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,740 2.5% -1.8%
High school diploma 67,940 36% 0.9%
College diploma 42,609 22.6% 2.7%
Associate degree 18,744 9.9% 7.5%
Bachelor's degree 36,702 19.5% 9.3%
Graduate degree 17,778 9.4% 3.1%
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 Berkeley County

How much people earn in Berkeley County

The average annual household income in Berkeley County was $104,881 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $84,358, reflecting a +2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Berkeley County
$104,881/year
2.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Berkeley County
$84,358/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Berkeley County income by age

In Berkeley County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,538. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $98,521 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,854, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,161 in earnings. Overall, 90.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,854 7.1%
25 - 44 $90,538 3.1%
45 - 64 $98,521 4.1%
Over 65 $60,161 -1.6%
Above poverty level
215,802
Below poverty level
23,565
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 215,802 90.2% 4.0%
Below poverty level 23,565 9.8% -0.3%

Employment in Berkeley County

Workforce and job types in Berkeley County

The job market in Berkeley County is powered by 117,909 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 67.3% are employed by private companies, and 18% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
117,909
4.6% year-over-year change
White collar
86,824
Blue collar
31,085
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 86,824 73.6% 4.7%
Blue collar 31,085 26.4% 4.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
67.3%
Governmental workers
18%
Not for profit companies
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 11,301 9.6% 4.2%
Private companies 79,405 67.3% 6.1%
Governmental workers 21,173 18% 0.2%
Not for profit companies 6,030 5.1% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-9.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Berkeley County stands at 3.2%, 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 Berkeley County

How people get around in Berkeley County

In Berkeley County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
2.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 103,836 84.3% 2.2%
Taxicab 128 0.1% 85.5%
Bus or trolleybus 77 0.1% -35.8%
Railroad 195 0.2% 4.3%
Ferryboat 19 0% -29.6%
Motorcycle 111 0.1% 11.0%
Bicycle 156 0.1% 0.7%
Walk 2,072 1.7% -6.5%
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 Berkeley County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29410 21,314 8,009 $87,984 $106,201
29431 7,580 2,784 $58,571 $88,860
29434 755 263 $0 $60,706
29436 4,000 1,758 $58,434 $77,716
29445 59,227 22,138 $81,594 $94,918
29450 3,309 1,298 $57,269 $84,506
29453 1,517 677 $71,328 $74,034
29456 41,214 15,666 $78,361 $94,690
29461 43,816 15,859 $82,666 $99,817
29468 2,144 852 $27,032 $39,024

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FAQs about Berkeley County demographics 

What is the total population of Berkeley County?

Berkeley County has a total population of 246,802 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 +3.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Berkeley County?

The gender ratio in Berkeley County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (122,894 residents)
  • 50.2% females (123,908 residents)

What is the median age in Berkeley County?

The median age in Berkeley County is 36.9.

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

The age distribution in Berkeley County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (48,117 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.3% (32,776 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.3% (69,767 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (59,527 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.8% (36,615 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Berkeley County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Berkeley County is as follows:
  • White: 62.4% (154,062 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23% (56,699 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (1,205 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (6,365 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (151 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.9% (19,441 residents)
  • Other: 3.6% (8,879 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.4% of the population in Berkeley County.

How many housing units are there in Berkeley County?

There are 100,600 housing units in Berkeley County, reflecting a +3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Berkeley County has a total of 93,711 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Berkeley County?

Berkeley County has a median household income of $84,358, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Berkeley County, with a workforce of 117,909 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.6% (86,824 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.4% (31,085 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (11,301 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.3% (79,405 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18% (21,173 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.1% (6,030 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