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

Total population
20,550
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$47,885/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,003
0.4% year-over-year change

Fairfield County population

How many people live in Fairfield County

Fairfield County is home to 20,550 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.7% of Fairfield County locals are male, and 51.3% are female.

Total population
20,550
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.7%
10,013
Female
51.3%
10,537
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,013 48.7% -0.9%
Female 10,537 51.3% -0.9%
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 Fairfield County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.7% of the population, while another 29.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
20.7%
45 to 64
29.2%
Over 65
24%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,992 14.6% -3.0%
15 to 24 2,360 11.5% 2.5%
25 to 44 4,254 20.7% -7.3%
45 to 64 6,003 29.2% 0.5%
Over 65 4,941 24% 3.2%
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 Fairfield County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.1% of locals are Caucasian, 55% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,224 98.4% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 303 1.5% -1.9%
Non-citizens 23 0.1% -30.3%
Racial breakdown
White
39.1%
Black or African American
55%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.7%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 8,034 39.1%
Black or African American 11,307 55%
American Indian and Alaska Native 16 0.1%
Asian 21 0.1%
Two or more races 969 4.7%
Other 203 1%

Households in Fairfield County

A peek inside Fairfield County households

Fairfield County has 8,930 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.1% are families, while the remaining 34.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,930
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,116
Family households
5,814
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,116 34.9% -0.7%
Family households 5,814 65.1% 3.2%
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 Fairfield County

The housing landscape of Fairfield County

Fairfield County's housing consists of 11,003 units, with 68.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 23.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,003
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,570 68.8%
1 unit, attached 101 0.9%
2 units 146 1.3%
3 or 4 units 208 1.9%
5 to 9 units 345 3.1%
10 to 19 units 31 0.3%
50 or more units 51 0.5%
Mobile home 2,551 23.2%
Homes built since 2020
133
-0.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fairfield County

In Fairfield County, the median construction year is 1984. About 7.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 849 7.7% 3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 173 1.6% -43.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 702 6.4% 2.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,146 10.4% -22.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,767 16.1% -2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,020 18.4% 17.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,091 19% 1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,447 13.2% 9.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 675 6.1% 10.5%
Built in 2020 or later 133 1.2% -0.8%
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.

Fairfield County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,930 occupied housing units in Fairfield County, 74.6% are owner-occupied, while 25.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,930
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,264
Owner occupied
6,666
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,264 25.4% 7.5%
Owner occupied 6,666 74.6% -0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
18.8%
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.

Fairfield County housing costs

Housing costs in Fairfield County come to a median of $782 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $938.

Median housing costs per month
$782/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 Fairfield County
$938/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 Fairfield County

Fairfield County education at a glance

About 52.8% of the population in Fairfield County went to high school, while 19.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 10.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 530 3.1% -17.1%
High school diploma 8,899 52.8% 3.8%
College diploma 3,259 19.3% -9.6%
Associate degree 1,603 9.5% 10.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,726 10.2% 4.2%
Graduate degree 842 5% -15.6%
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 Fairfield County

How much people earn in Fairfield County

The average annual household income in Fairfield County was $72,061 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $47,885, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fairfield County
$72,061/year
-2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fairfield County
$47,885/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Fairfield County income by age

In Fairfield County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $49,031. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,553 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,137, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,293 in earnings. Overall, 84.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,137 67.2%
25 - 44 $49,031 5.6%
45 - 64 $73,553 2.9%
Over 65 $36,293 0.6%
Above poverty level
16,995
Below poverty level
3,137
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,995 84.4% 0.5%
Below poverty level 3,137 15.6% -6.8%

Employment in Fairfield County

Workforce and job types in Fairfield County

The job market in Fairfield County is powered by 9,130 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9% run their own businesses, 65.7% are employed by private companies, and 21.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,130
-4.3% year-over-year change
White collar
6,338
Blue collar
2,792
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,338 69.4% -1.5%
Blue collar 2,792 30.6% -10.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9%
Private companies
65.7%
Governmental workers
21.4%
Not for profit companies
4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 817 9% -5.7%
Private companies 5,999 65.7% -3.3%
Governmental workers 1,952 21.4% -3.2%
Not for profit companies 362 4% -20.1%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-5.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fairfield County stands at 5.5%, 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 Fairfield County

How people get around in Fairfield County

Commuting methods vary: 90.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,085 90.8% -5.8%
Bus or trolleybus 25 0.3% -21.9%
Railroad 1 0% 0.0%
Walk 105 1.2% 6.1%
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 Fairfield County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29055 3,924 1,695 $37,401 $58,539
29065 605 296 $49,225 $61,522
29014 1,595 671 $62,422 $70,453
29015 1,255 485 $43,977 $55,011
29130 6,252 3,000 $63,963 $98,431
29180 11,730 5,152 $43,330 $61,620

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FAQs about Fairfield County demographics 

What is the total population of Fairfield County?

Fairfield County has a total population of 20,550 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fairfield County?

The gender ratio in Fairfield County is as follows:
  • 48.7% males (10,013 residents)
  • 51.3% females (10,537 residents)

What is the median age in Fairfield County?

The median age in Fairfield County is 47.4.

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

The age distribution in Fairfield County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (2,992 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (2,360 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.7% (4,254 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.2% (6,003 residents)
  • Over 65: 24% (4,941 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfield County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fairfield County is as follows:
  • White: 39.1% (8,034 residents)
  • Black or African American: 55% (11,307 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (16 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (21 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.7% (969 residents)
  • Other: 1% (203 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Fairfield County?

There are 11,003 housing units in Fairfield County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fairfield County has a total of 8,930 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fairfield County?

Fairfield County has a median household income of $47,885, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in Fairfield County, with a workforce of 9,130 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.4% (6,338 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.6% (2,792 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9% (817 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.7% (5,999 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.4% (1,952 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4% (362 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