Gaffney, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,596
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$41,089/yr
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,384
-0.7% year-over-year change

Gaffney population

How many people live in Gaffney

Gaffney is home to 12,596 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Gaffney locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
12,596
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
6,110
Female
51.5%
6,486
Value Percent YoY change
Male 6,110 48.5% 1.7%
Female 6,486 51.5% -1.8%
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 Gaffney is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 18.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.4% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
18.2%
25 to 44
26.4%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
15.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,436 19.3% 5.4%
15 to 24 2,290 18.2% 6.5%
25 to 44 3,325 26.4% -1.9%
45 to 64 2,563 20.4% -6.3%
Over 65 1,982 15.7% -2.0%
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 Gaffney, 93% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 41.3% of locals are Caucasian, 40.7% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,714 93% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 379 3% 5.9%
Non-citizens 503 4% 1.2%
Racial breakdown
White
41.3%
Black or African American
40.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.6%
Other
5.3%
Value Percent
White 5,198 41.3%
Black or African American 5,121 40.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 79 0.6%
Asian 68 0.5%
Two or more races 1,464 11.6%
Other 666 5.3%

Households in Gaffney

A peek inside Gaffney households

Gaffney has 4,635 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.2% are families, while the remaining 46.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,635
-0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,169
Family households
2,466
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,169 46.8% 3.8%
Family households 2,466 53.2% -3.8%
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 Gaffney

The housing landscape of Gaffney

Gaffney's housing consists of 5,384 units, with 66.2% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,384
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,567 66.2%
1 unit, attached 49 0.9%
2 units 355 6.6%
3 or 4 units 343 6.4%
5 to 9 units 351 6.5%
10 to 19 units 345 6.4%
20 to 49 units 180 3.3%
50 or more units 88 1.6%
Mobile home 106 2%
Homes built since 2020
114
307.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gaffney

In Gaffney, the median construction year is 1975. About 9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 487 9% -12.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 348 6.5% 24.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 480 8.9% -0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 730 13.6% -22.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,196 22.2% 1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 582 10.8% 2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 570 10.6% -11.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 542 10.1% 30.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 335 6.2% -0.3%
Built in 2020 or later 114 2.1% 307.1%
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.

Gaffney occupancy rates

Out of the 4,635 occupied housing units in Gaffney, 50.5% are owner-occupied, while 49.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,635
-0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,294
Owner occupied
2,341
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,294 49.5% 7.7%
Owner occupied 2,341 50.5% -7.2%
Unoccupied housing units
13.9%
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.

Gaffney housing costs

Housing costs in Gaffney come to a median of $824 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $887.

Median housing costs per month
$824/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 Gaffney
$887/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 Gaffney

Gaffney education at a glance

About 44.1% of the population in Gaffney went to high school, while 25% pursued college studies. Another 6.5% earned an associate degree and 12.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 413 4.2% 2.5%
High school diploma 4,335 44.1% -5.8%
College diploma 2,453 25% 6.7%
Associate degree 636 6.5% -18.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,248 12.7% 12.2%
Graduate degree 737 7.5% -5.2%
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 Gaffney

How much people earn in Gaffney

The average annual household income in Gaffney was $53,950 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $41,089, reflecting a -0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gaffney
$53,950/year
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gaffney
$41,089/year
-0.3% year-over-year change

Gaffney income by age

In Gaffney, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $44,130. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $48,512 overall. Overall, 70.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $44,130 -3.3%
45 - 64 $48,512 10.3%
Over 65 $32,038 -0.9%
Above poverty level
8,011
Below poverty level
3,289
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,011 70.9% -6.3%
Below poverty level 3,289 29.1% 14.7%

Average renter income in Gaffney

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Gaffney, their median household income was $29,447 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 36.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,447
Rent-to-income ratio
36.1%
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 Gaffney

Workforce and job types in Gaffney

The job market in Gaffney is powered by 4,756 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 68.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 31.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 69.6% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,756
-3.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,248
Blue collar
1,508
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,248 68.3% -2.8%
Blue collar 1,508 31.7% -5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
69.6%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 400 8.4% 1.5%
Private companies 3,308 69.6% -6.6%
Governmental workers 801 16.8% 5.4%
Not for profit companies 247 5.2% 6.0%
Unemployment rate
10.6%
-10.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gaffney stands at 10.6%, 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 Gaffney

How people get around in Gaffney

Commuting methods vary: 88.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% 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 4,102 88.6% -1.9%
Taxicab 53 1.2% -17.2%
Ferryboat 9 0.2% N/A
Walk 154 3.3% -21.0%
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 Gaffney by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29340 20,763 8,131 $44,123 $59,677
29341 20,647 7,869 $58,029 $71,379

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FAQs about Gaffney demographics 

What is the total population of Gaffney?

Gaffney has a total population of 12,596 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 Gaffney?

The gender ratio in Gaffney is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (6,110 residents)
  • 51.5% females (6,486 residents)

What is the median age in Gaffney?

The median age in Gaffney is 31.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gaffney?

The age distribution in Gaffney is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (2,436 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.2% (2,290 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.4% (3,325 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (2,563 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.7% (1,982 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gaffney?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gaffney is as follows:
  • White: 41.3% (5,198 residents)
  • Black or African American: 40.7% (5,121 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (79 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (68 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.6% (1,464 residents)
  • Other: 5.3% (666 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93% of the population in Gaffney.

How many housing units are there in Gaffney?

There are 5,384 housing units in Gaffney, reflecting a -0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gaffney has a total of 4,635 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gaffney?

Gaffney has a median household income of $41,089, representing a -0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 89.4% in Gaffney, with a workforce of 4,756 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 68.3% (3,248 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 31.7% (1,508 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (400 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.6% (3,308 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (801 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (247 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