Folly Beach, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,267
32.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$102,279/yr
4.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,221
7.5% year-over-year change

Folly Beach population

How many people live in Folly Beach

Folly Beach is home to 1,267 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 54.5% of Folly Beach locals are male, and 45.5% are female.

Total population
1,267
32.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
54.5%
691
Female
45.5%
576
Value Percent YoY change
Male 691 54.5% 33.7%
Female 576 45.5% 30.6%
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 Folly Beach is 62, with the population distributed as follows: about 7.5% are children under 15, then 3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 10.9% of the population, while another 39.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 38.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
62
Age breakdown
Under 15
7.5%
15 to 24
3%
25 to 44
10.9%
45 to 64
39.9%
Over 65
38.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 95 7.5% 280.0%
15 to 24 38 3% 216.7%
25 to 44 138 10.9% 70.4%
45 to 64 505 39.9% 13.5%
Over 65 491 38.8% 24.3%
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 Folly Beach, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 2.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,236 97.6% 34.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 31 2.4% -13.9%
Racial breakdown
White
96.3%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
1.4%
Two or more races
2.3%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 1,220 96.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 1.4%
Two or more races 29 2.3%

Households in Folly Beach

A peek inside Folly Beach households

Folly Beach has 619 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 70.6% are families, while the remaining 29.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
619
22.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
182
Family households
437
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 182 29.4% -3.2%
Family households 437 70.6% 38.3%
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 Folly Beach

The housing landscape of Folly Beach

Folly Beach's housing consists of 2,221 units, with 64.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
2,221
7.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,436 64.7%
1 unit, attached 128 5.8%
2 units 140 6.3%
3 or 4 units 62 2.8%
5 to 9 units 91 4.1%
10 to 19 units 150 6.8%
20 to 49 units 37 1.7%
50 or more units 177 8%
Homes built since 2020
54
125.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Folly Beach

In Folly Beach, the median construction year is 1990. About 2.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 60 2.7% 5.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 227 10.2% -7.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 185 8.3% 0.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 144 6.5% -22.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 50 2.2% 2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 427 19.2% 21.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 518 23.3% 15.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 470 21.2% 8.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 86 3.9% 1.2%
Built in 2020 or later 54 2.4% 125.0%
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.

Folly Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 619 occupied housing units in Folly Beach, 94.7% are owner-occupied, while 5.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 72.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
619
22.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33
Owner occupied
586
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33 5.3% -23.3%
Owner occupied 586 94.7% 27.1%
Unoccupied housing units
72.1%
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.

Folly Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Folly Beach come to a median of $1,923 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,844.

Median housing costs per month
$1,923/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 Folly Beach
$1,844/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 Folly Beach

Folly Beach education at a glance

About 11.8% of the population in Folly Beach went to high school, while 17.3% pursued college studies. Another 4.3% earned an associate degree and 38.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 27.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 10 0.9% -9.1%
High school diploma 136 11.8% -0.7%
College diploma 199 17.3% 11.8%
Associate degree 49 4.3% 28.9%
Bachelor's degree 443 38.5% 28.0%
Graduate degree 314 27.3% 40.8%
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 Folly Beach

How much people earn in Folly Beach

The average annual household income in Folly Beach was $167,200 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +14% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $102,279, reflecting a +4.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Folly Beach
$167,200/year
14.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Folly Beach
$102,279/year
4.6% year-over-year change

Folly Beach income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $250,001 overall. Overall, 95.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $250,001 23.1%
Over 65 $72,000 3.7%
Above poverty level
1,183
Below poverty level
51
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,183 95.9% 36.6%
Below poverty level 51 4.1% -39.3%

Employment in Folly Beach

Workforce and job types in Folly Beach

The job market in Folly Beach is powered by 696 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 94.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 5.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 29.3% run their own businesses, 55.2% are employed by private companies, and 10.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
696
43.5% year-over-year change
White collar
660
Blue collar
36
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 660 94.8% 53.5%
Blue collar 36 5.2% -34.5%
Employer type
Self employees
29.3%
Private companies
55.2%
Governmental workers
10.2%
Not for profit companies
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 204 29.3% 30.8%
Private companies 384 55.2% 50.6%
Governmental workers 71 10.2% 29.1%
Not for profit companies 37 5.3% 94.7%
Unemployment rate
2.1%
-11.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Folly Beach stands at 2.1%, 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 Folly Beach

How people get around in Folly Beach

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 354 53.3% 33.6%
Bicycle 44 6.6% 100.0%
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 Folly Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29412 39,256 16,758 $101,509 $138,912
29439 1,125 531 $137,396 $180,800

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FAQs about Folly Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Folly Beach?

Folly Beach has a total population of 1,267 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 +32.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Folly Beach?

The gender ratio in Folly Beach is as follows:
  • 54.5% males (691 residents)
  • 45.5% females (576 residents)

What is the median age in Folly Beach?

The median age in Folly Beach is 62.

What is the age distribution of the population in Folly Beach?

The age distribution in Folly Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 7.5% (95 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 3% (38 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 10.9% (138 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 39.9% (505 residents)
  • Over 65: 38.8% (491 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Folly Beach?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Folly Beach is as follows:
  • White: 96.3% (1,220 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 1.4% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.3% (29 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Folly Beach.

How many housing units are there in Folly Beach?

There are 2,221 housing units in Folly Beach, reflecting a +7.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Folly Beach has a total of 619 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Folly Beach?

Folly Beach has a median household income of $102,279, representing a +4.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Folly Beach?

The employment rate is 97.9% in Folly Beach, with a workforce of 696 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 94.8% (660 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 5.2% (36 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 29.3% (204 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.2% (384 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.2% (71 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.3% (37 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