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

Total population
25,975
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$34,301/yr
-5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,077
0.1% year-over-year change

Marlboro County population

How many people live in Marlboro County

Marlboro County is home to 25,975 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.7% of Marlboro County locals are male, and 47.3% are female.

Total population
25,975
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.7%
13,685
Female
47.3%
12,290
Value Percent YoY change
Male 13,685 52.7% -1.1%
Female 12,290 47.3% -1.3%
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 Marlboro County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.4% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.4%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,265 16.4% -2.5%
15 to 24 2,941 11.3% -1.5%
25 to 44 6,965 26.8% 0.2%
45 to 64 6,845 26.4% -3.2%
Over 65 4,959 19.1% 1.2%
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 Marlboro County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 39.2% of locals are Caucasian, 47.8% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,176 96.9% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 466 1.8% -12.6%
Non-citizens 333 1.3% 17.7%
Racial breakdown
White
39.2%
Black or African American
47.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 10,179 39.2%
Black or African American 12,429 47.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 786 3%
Asian 107 0.4%
Two or more races 2,064 8%
Other 410 1.6%

Households in Marlboro County

A peek inside Marlboro County households

Marlboro County has 9,789 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.6% are families, while the remaining 48.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,789
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,733
Family households
5,056
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,733 48.4% -0.8%
Family households 5,056 51.6% 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 Marlboro County

The housing landscape of Marlboro County

Marlboro County's housing consists of 12,077 units, with 62% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 25.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,077
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,487 62%
1 unit, attached 71 0.6%
2 units 212 1.8%
3 or 4 units 670 5.6%
5 to 9 units 395 3.3%
10 to 19 units 41 0.3%
20 to 49 units 61 0.5%
Mobile home 3,133 25.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 7 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
31
933.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Marlboro County

In Marlboro County, the median construction year is 1977. About 9.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,129 9.4% 5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 881 7.3% 25.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 978 8.1% -7.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,710 14.2% 7.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,044 16.9% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,869 15.5% 5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,984 16.4% -10.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 716 5.9% -17.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 735 6.1% 4.4%
Built in 2020 or later 31 0.3% 933.3%
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.

Marlboro County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,789 occupied housing units in Marlboro County, 63% are owner-occupied, while 37% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,789
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,623
Owner occupied
6,166
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,623 37% 0.6%
Owner occupied 6,166 63% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
18.9%
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.

Marlboro County housing costs

Housing costs in Marlboro County come to a median of $491 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $689.

Median housing costs per month
$491/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 Marlboro County
$689/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 Marlboro County

Marlboro County education at a glance

About 64.1% of the population in Marlboro County went to high school, while 15.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 970 4.7% 0.7%
High school diploma 13,329 64.1% 0.2%
College diploma 3,163 15.2% -7.5%
Associate degree 1,552 7.5% -5.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,250 6% 6.8%
Graduate degree 540 2.6% 4.2%
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 Marlboro County

How much people earn in Marlboro County

The average annual household income in Marlboro County was $51,818 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $34,301, reflecting a -5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Marlboro County
$51,818/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Marlboro County
$34,301/year
-5.5% year-over-year change

Marlboro County income by age

In Marlboro County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $44,907. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $38,155 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,458, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $26,199 in earnings. Overall, 71.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $26,458 -8.0%
25 - 44 $44,907 6.0%
45 - 64 $38,155 -7.6%
Over 65 $26,199 2.2%
Above poverty level
16,664
Below poverty level
6,654
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,664 71.5% -4.6%
Below poverty level 6,654 28.5% 7.8%

Employment in Marlboro County

Workforce and job types in Marlboro County

The job market in Marlboro County is powered by 8,858 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 41.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 71.1% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,858
-3.8% year-over-year change
White collar
5,158
Blue collar
3,700
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,158 58.2% -2.5%
Blue collar 3,700 41.8% -5.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
71.1%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 816 9.2% 18.4%
Private companies 6,297 71.1% -4.6%
Governmental workers 1,293 14.6% -5.0%
Not for profit companies 452 5.1% -18.7%
Unemployment rate
9.9%
15.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Marlboro County stands at 9.9%, 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 Marlboro County

How people get around in Marlboro County

Commuting methods vary: 94.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 8,119 94.6% -5.6%
Bus or trolleybus 23 0.3% -4.2%
Bicycle 5 0.1% -86.8%
Walk 78 0.9% -8.2%
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 Marlboro County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29512 17,197 6,377 $34,734 $54,604
29516 882 260 $57,639 $72,555
29525 1,665 755 $28,618 $45,768
29570 4,141 1,529 $30,768 $42,682
29594 80 26 $53,125 $49,565
29596 1,910 791 $34,682 $44,640

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FAQs about Marlboro County demographics 

What is the total population of Marlboro County?

Marlboro County has a total population of 25,975 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 -1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Marlboro County?

The gender ratio in Marlboro County is as follows:
  • 52.7% males (13,685 residents)
  • 47.3% females (12,290 residents)

What is the median age in Marlboro County?

The median age in Marlboro County is 41.7.

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

The age distribution in Marlboro County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.4% (4,265 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (2,941 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (6,965 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (6,845 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (4,959 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Marlboro County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Marlboro County is as follows:
  • White: 39.2% (10,179 residents)
  • Black or African American: 47.8% (12,429 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3% (786 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (107 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8% (2,064 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (410 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Marlboro County.

How many housing units are there in Marlboro County?

There are 12,077 housing units in Marlboro County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Marlboro County has a total of 9,789 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Marlboro County?

Marlboro County has a median household income of $34,301, representing a -5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.1% in Marlboro County, with a workforce of 8,858 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58.2% (5,158 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 41.8% (3,700 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (816 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.1% (6,297 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (1,293 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.1% (452 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