Hilton Head Island, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
37,911
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$94,657/yr
-2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
30,112
-0.5% year-over-year change

Hilton Head Island population

How many people live in Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is home to 37,911 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Hilton Head Island locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
37,911
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
18,748
Female
50.6%
19,163
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,748 49.4% -1.1%
Female 19,163 50.6% 1.6%
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 Hilton Head Island is 60, with the population distributed as follows: about 9.4% are children under 15, then 6.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 14.3% of the population, while another 30.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 39.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
59.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
9.4%
15 to 24
6.4%
25 to 44
14.3%
45 to 64
30.7%
Over 65
39.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,552 9.4% -4.9%
15 to 24 2,446 6.4% -4.5%
25 to 44 5,409 14.3% -4.6%
45 to 64 11,649 30.7% 5.7%
Over 65 14,855 39.2% 0.2%
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 Hilton Head Island, 84.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 9.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 75.7% of locals are Caucasian, 7.2% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6%
Non-citizens
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,161 84.8% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,280 6% 7.8%
Non-citizens 3,470 9.2% 8.7%
Racial breakdown
White
75.7%
Black or African American
7.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.8%
Other
8.8%
Value Percent
White 28,712 75.7%
Black or African American 2,720 7.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 171 0.4%
Asian 382 1%
Two or more races 2,589 6.8%
Other 3,337 8.8%

Households in Hilton Head Island

A peek inside Hilton Head Island households

Hilton Head Island has 18,326 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.3% are families, while the remaining 36.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,326
4.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,719
Family households
11,607
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,719 36.7% 9.7%
Family households 11,607 63.3% 2.0%
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 Hilton Head Island

The housing landscape of Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island's housing consists of 30,112 units, with 47.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% 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 5.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
30,112
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,231 47.3%
1 unit, attached 1,856 6.2%
2 units 408 1.4%
3 or 4 units 1,865 6.2%
5 to 9 units 2,767 9.2%
10 to 19 units 1,446 4.8%
20 to 49 units 2,915 9.7%
50 or more units 3,056 10.2%
Mobile home 1,568 5.2%
Homes built since 2020
464
144.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hilton Head Island

In Hilton Head Island, the median construction year is 1987. About 0.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 25 0.1% 4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 62 0.2% -16.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 180 0.6% -20.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,086 3.6% 14.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,750 19.1% -3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 11,102 36.9% -1.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,308 17.6% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,160 13.8% -1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,975 6.6% 0.4%
Built in 2020 or later 464 1.5% 144.2%
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.

Hilton Head Island occupancy rates

Out of the 18,326 occupied housing units in Hilton Head Island, 78.7% are owner-occupied, while 21.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 39.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,326
4.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,904
Owner occupied
14,422
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,904 21.3% 8.0%
Owner occupied 14,422 78.7% 3.9%
Unoccupied housing units
39.1%
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.

Hilton Head Island housing costs

Housing costs in Hilton Head Island come to a median of $1,546 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,479.

Median housing costs per month
$1,546/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 Hilton Head Island
$1,479/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 Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island education at a glance

About 21.8% of the population in Hilton Head Island went to high school, while 15.9% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 30.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 932 2.8% -5.2%
High school diploma 7,271 21.8% -3.1%
College diploma 5,298 15.9% -2.2%
Associate degree 1,814 5.4% 0.6%
Bachelor's degree 10,189 30.5% 1.9%
Graduate degree 7,887 23.6% 4.9%
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 Hilton Head Island

How much people earn in Hilton Head Island

The average annual household income in Hilton Head Island was $151,065 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $94,657, reflecting a -2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hilton Head Island
$151,065/year
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hilton Head Island
$94,657/year
-2.1% year-over-year change

Hilton Head Island income by age

In Hilton Head Island, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,986. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $99,978 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,581, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $96,923 in earnings. Overall, 91.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,581 4.0%
25 - 44 $87,986 1.3%
45 - 64 $99,978 -8.1%
Over 65 $96,923 1.7%
Above poverty level
34,383
Below poverty level
3,208
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,383 91.5% 0.0%
Below poverty level 3,208 8.5% 3.5%

Average renter income in Hilton Head Island

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Hilton Head Island, their median household income was $56,594 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$56,594
Rent-to-income ratio
31.4%
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 Hilton Head Island

Workforce and job types in Hilton Head Island

The job market in Hilton Head Island is powered by 16,459 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.4% run their own businesses, 72% are employed by private companies, and 6.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,459
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
13,777
Blue collar
2,682
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,777 83.7% 1.4%
Blue collar 2,682 16.3% 7.8%
Employer type
Self employees
15.4%
Private companies
72%
Governmental workers
6.9%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,532 15.4% -5.6%
Private companies 11,855 72% 3.9%
Governmental workers 1,143 6.9% 3.4%
Not for profit companies 929 5.6% 4.6%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
29.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hilton Head Island stands at 3%, 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 Hilton Head Island

How people get around in Hilton Head Island

Commuting methods vary: 75.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 12,060 75.1% -2.5%
Taxicab 24 0.2% 33.3%
Bus or trolleybus 66 0.4% 57.1%
Bicycle 206 1.3% 66.1%
Walk 260 1.6% 21.5%
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 Hilton Head Island by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29926 24,458 11,093 $97,948 $138,592
29928 15,785 8,462 $97,576 $169,737

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FAQs about Hilton Head Island demographics 

What is the total population of Hilton Head Island?

Hilton Head Island has a total population of 37,911 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 +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hilton Head Island?

The gender ratio in Hilton Head Island is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (18,748 residents)
  • 50.6% females (19,163 residents)

What is the median age in Hilton Head Island?

The median age in Hilton Head Island is 59.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Hilton Head Island?

The age distribution in Hilton Head Island is as follows:
  • Under 15: 9.4% (3,552 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6.4% (2,446 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 14.3% (5,409 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.7% (11,649 residents)
  • Over 65: 39.2% (14,855 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hilton Head Island?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hilton Head Island is as follows:
  • White: 75.7% (28,712 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.2% (2,720 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (171 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (382 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.8% (2,589 residents)
  • Other: 8.8% (3,337 residents)

What percentage of the population in Hilton Head Island are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.8% of the population in Hilton Head Island.

How many housing units are there in Hilton Head Island?

There are 30,112 housing units in Hilton Head Island, reflecting a -0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Hilton Head Island and what is the average household size?

Hilton Head Island has a total of 18,326 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hilton Head Island?

Hilton Head Island has a median household income of $94,657, representing a -2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Hilton Head Island?

The employment rate is 97% in Hilton Head Island, with a workforce of 16,459 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.7% (13,777 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.3% (2,682 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.4% (2,532 residents)
  • Private companies: 72% (11,855 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 6.9% (1,143 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (929 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