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

Total population
32,182
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,458/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,807
0.6% year-over-year change

Chester County population

How many people live in Chester County

Chester County is home to 32,182 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Chester County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
32,182
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
15,594
Female
51.5%
16,588
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,594 48.5% 0.0%
Female 16,588 51.5% -0.0%
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 Chester County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
19.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,796 18% 0.2%
15 to 24 3,903 12.1% 1.2%
25 to 44 7,520 23.4% -0.6%
45 to 64 8,774 27.3% -1.3%
Over 65 6,189 19.2% 1.8%
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 Chester County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.2% of locals are Caucasian, 34.8% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,659 98.4% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 270 0.8% 1.1%
Non-citizens 253 0.8% 97.7%
Racial breakdown
White
58.2%
Black or African American
34.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.2%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 18,737 58.2%
Black or African American 11,183 34.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 49 0.2%
Asian 126 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 11 0%
Two or more races 1,660 5.2%
Other 416 1.3%

Households in Chester County

A peek inside Chester County households

Chester County has 13,159 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.3% are families, while the remaining 32.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,159
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,304
Family households
8,855
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,304 32.7% 2.0%
Family households 8,855 67.3% 1.7%
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 Chester County

The housing landscape of Chester County

Chester County's housing consists of 14,807 units, with 71.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 23.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,807
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,618 71.7%
1 unit, attached 26 0.2%
2 units 96 0.6%
3 or 4 units 323 2.2%
5 to 9 units 155 1%
10 to 19 units 18 0.1%
20 to 49 units 26 0.2%
50 or more units 8 0%
Mobile home 3,501 23.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 36 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
236
108.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chester County

In Chester County, the median construction year is 1980. About 9.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,373 9.3% -4.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 810 5.5% 4.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,602 10.8% -4.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,684 11.4% 2.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,025 13.7% -8.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,747 11.8% 4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,069 20.7% 7.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,287 8.7% -9.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 974 6.6% 9.3%
Built in 2020 or later 236 1.6% 108.8%
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.

Chester County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,159 occupied housing units in Chester County, 78.4% are owner-occupied, while 21.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,159
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,838
Owner occupied
10,321
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,838 21.6% -0.7%
Owner occupied 10,321 78.4% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
11.1%
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.

Chester County housing costs

Housing costs in Chester County come to a median of $692 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $853.

Median housing costs per month
$692/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 Chester County
$853/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 Chester County

Chester County education at a glance

About 55.1% of the population in Chester County went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 8.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 703 2.8% -9.6%
High school diploma 13,772 55.1% 3.7%
College diploma 5,391 21.6% -3.5%
Associate degree 1,878 7.5% -9.5%
Bachelor's degree 2,043 8.2% 0.1%
Graduate degree 1,212 4.8% 0.5%
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 Chester County

How much people earn in Chester County

The average annual household income in Chester County was $68,310 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,458, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chester County
$68,310/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chester County
$52,458/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Chester County income by age

In Chester County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,563. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $62,408 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,939, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,348 in earnings. Overall, 81.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,939 -5.0%
25 - 44 $60,563 2.4%
45 - 64 $62,408 7.4%
Over 65 $39,348 -2.4%
Above poverty level
25,594
Below poverty level
5,899
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,594 81.3% 0.4%
Below poverty level 5,899 18.7% -3.0%

Employment in Chester County

Workforce and job types in Chester County

The job market in Chester County is powered by 14,209 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 75% are employed by private companies, and 14.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,209
4.1% year-over-year change
White collar
8,826
Blue collar
5,383
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 8,826 62.1% 4.5%
Blue collar 5,383 37.9% 3.4%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
75%
Governmental workers
14.5%
Not for profit companies
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,018 7.2% -3.0%
Private companies 10,659 75% 6.1%
Governmental workers 2,057 14.5% 7.0%
Not for profit companies 475 3.3% -25.4%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
-11.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Chester County stands at 5.6%, 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 Chester County

How people get around in Chester County

In Chester County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,990 92.4% 4.8%
Motorcycle 17 0.1% 54.5%
Walk 62 0.4% -34.7%
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 Chester County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29055 3,924 1,695 $37,401 $58,539
29014 1,595 671 $62,422 $70,453
29031 1,617 608 $61,143 $62,227
29704 3,060 1,251 $74,303 $101,852
29706 18,742 7,881 $51,230 $66,131
29712 2,047 849 $62,656 $103,877
29714 3,462 1,127 $70,475 $80,923
29729 2,247 831 $53,618 $73,251
29742 2,492 1,005 $52,775 $74,667

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FAQs about Chester County demographics 

What is the total population of Chester County?

Chester County has a total population of 32,182 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 +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chester County?

The gender ratio in Chester County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (15,594 residents)
  • 51.5% females (16,588 residents)

What is the median age in Chester County?

The median age in Chester County is 42.4.

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

The age distribution in Chester County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (5,796 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (3,903 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (7,520 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (8,774 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.2% (6,189 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chester County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chester County is as follows:
  • White: 58.2% (18,737 residents)
  • Black or African American: 34.8% (11,183 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (49 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (126 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (11 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.2% (1,660 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (416 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Chester County.

How many housing units are there in Chester County?

There are 14,807 housing units in Chester County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Chester County has a total of 13,159 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chester County?

Chester County has a median household income of $52,458, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in Chester County, with a workforce of 14,209 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.1% (8,826 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.9% (5,383 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (1,018 residents)
  • Private companies: 75% (10,659 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.5% (2,057 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.3% (475 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