Greater Charleston, Lowcountry, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
229,981
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$101,509/yr
8.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
114,689
1.8% year-over-year change

Greater Charleston population

How many people live in Greater Charleston

Greater Charleston is home to 229,981 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Greater Charleston locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
229,981
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
111,603
Female
51.5%
118,378
Value Percent YoY change
Male 111,603 48.5% -0.0%
Female 118,378 51.5% 2.2%
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 Greater Charleston is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.1% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
28.1%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 39,731 17.3% 0.4%
15 to 24 22,170 9.6% 1.5%
25 to 44 64,534 28.1% 1.4%
45 to 64 60,428 26.3% -0.7%
Over 65 43,119 18.8% 3.9%
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 Greater Charleston, 91.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64% of locals are Caucasian, 25% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
4.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 211,095 91.8% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 9,306 4% -7.3%
Non-citizens 9,580 4.2% 0.6%
Racial breakdown
White
64%
Black or African American
25%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
3.4%
Value Percent
White 147,108 64%
Black or African American 57,538 25%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,302 0.6%
Asian 3,337 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 224 0.1%
Two or more races 12,588 5.5%
Other 7,884 3.4%

Households in Greater Charleston

A peek inside Greater Charleston households

Greater Charleston has 96,548 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.2% are families, while the remaining 38.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
96,548
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
37,494
Family households
59,054
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 37,494 38.8% -0.0%
Family households 59,054 61.2% 3.6%
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 Greater Charleston

The housing landscape of Greater Charleston

Greater Charleston's housing consists of 114,689 units, with 60.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.1% 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 6.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
114,689
1.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 69,802 60.9%
1 unit, attached 9,269 8.1%
2 units 2,216 1.9%
3 or 4 units 4,050 3.5%
5 to 9 units 6,818 5.9%
10 to 19 units 5,002 4.4%
20 to 49 units 5,035 4.4%
50 or more units 4,721 4.1%
Mobile home 7,708 6.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 68 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
4,409
77.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Greater Charleston

In Greater Charleston, the median construction year is 1991. About 1.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,684 1.5% -4.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,797 3.3% 0.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,659 5.8% -0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 7,169 6.2% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,667 11% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 17,568 15.3% 1.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 17,967 15.7% -3.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 21,825 19% 5.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 20,944 18.3% 0.3%
Built in 2020 or later 4,409 3.8% 77.2%
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.

Greater Charleston occupancy rates

Out of the 96,548 occupied housing units in Greater Charleston, 68% are owner-occupied, while 32% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
96,548
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
30,852
Owner occupied
65,696
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 30,852 32% -0.1%
Owner occupied 65,696 68% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
15.8%
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.

Greater Charleston housing costs

Housing costs in Greater Charleston come to a median of $1,306 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,708.

Median housing costs per month
$1,306/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 Greater Charleston
$1,708/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 Greater Charleston

Greater Charleston education at a glance

About 25.7% of the population in Greater Charleston went to high school, while 18.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 27.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,608 2.5% -6.4%
High school diploma 46,880 25.7% -0.8%
College diploma 34,270 18.8% 0.6%
Associate degree 13,790 7.6% -1.6%
Bachelor's degree 50,429 27.6% 2.5%
Graduate degree 32,456 17.8% 6.7%
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 Greater Charleston

How much people earn in Greater Charleston

The average annual household income in Greater Charleston was $127,076 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 $101,509, reflecting a +8.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Greater Charleston
$127,076/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Greater Charleston
$101,509/year
8.6% year-over-year change

Greater Charleston income by age

In Greater Charleston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $117,459. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $118,828 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,330, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $77,030 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,330 -8.9%
25 - 44 $117,459 3.0%
45 - 64 $118,828 14.0%
Over 65 $77,030 7.2%
Above poverty level
198,307
Below poverty level
23,978
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 198,307 89.2% 1.4%
Below poverty level 23,978 10.8% -2.7%

Employment in Greater Charleston

Workforce and job types in Greater Charleston

82.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.5% run their own businesses, 63.3% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
94,605
Blue collar
20,416
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 94,605 82.2% 2.2%
Blue collar 20,416 17.8% -4.1%
Employer type
Self employees
14.5%
Private companies
63.3%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,718 14.5% 5.8%
Private companies 72,788 63.3% -0.5%
Governmental workers 18,167 15.8% 0.9%
Not for profit companies 7,348 6.4% 6.7%

Transportation in Greater Charleston

How people get around in Greater Charleston

In Greater Charleston, the average commute time is 40 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
40 min
-60.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 90,030 97% -1.5%
Taxicab 64 0.1% -27.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1,027 1.1% -12.2%
Railroad 15 0% 0.0%
Ferryboat 17 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 133 0.1% 6.4%
Bicycle 393 0.4% -6.0%
Walk 1,175 1.3% 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 Greater Charleston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29404 2,334 592 $54,716 $75,576
29405 26,254 11,639 $56,600 $78,633
29406 32,001 12,979 $49,815 $69,670
29412 39,256 16,758 $101,509 $138,912
29418 26,052 11,134 $64,583 $84,032
29426 1,697 742 $64,087 $73,913
29429 4,479 1,733 $112,244 $139,803
29439 1,125 531 $137,396 $180,800
29449 8,024 3,220 $56,929 $90,945
29451 4,362 2,043 $156,979 $269,949

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FAQs about Greater Charleston demographics 

What is the total population of Greater Charleston?

Greater Charleston has a total population of 229,981 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Greater Charleston?

The gender ratio in Greater Charleston is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (111,603 residents)
  • 51.5% females (118,378 residents)

What is the median age in Greater Charleston?

The median age in Greater Charleston is 46.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Greater Charleston?

The age distribution in Greater Charleston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (39,731 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (22,170 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.1% (64,534 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (60,428 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (43,119 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Charleston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Greater Charleston is as follows:
  • White: 64% (147,108 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25% (57,538 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (1,302 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (3,337 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (224 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (12,588 residents)
  • Other: 3.4% (7,884 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.8% of the population in Greater Charleston.

How many housing units are there in Greater Charleston?

There are 114,689 housing units in Greater Charleston, reflecting a +1.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Greater Charleston has a total of 96,548 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Greater Charleston?

Greater Charleston has a median household income of $101,509, representing a +8.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Greater Charleston?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.2% (94,605 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.8% (20,416 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.5% (16,718 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.3% (72,788 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (18,167 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (7,348 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