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

Total population
134,629
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,064/yr
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
58,677
1.7% year-over-year change

Pickens County population

How many people live in Pickens County

Pickens County is home to 134,629 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Pickens County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
134,629
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
67,228
Female
50.1%
67,401
Value Percent YoY change
Male 67,228 49.9% 1.3%
Female 67,401 50.1% 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 Pickens County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.1% are children under 15, then 21.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23% of the population, while another 23.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.1%
15 to 24
21.4%
25 to 44
23%
45 to 64
23.2%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 20,308 15.1% -0.1%
15 to 24 28,788 21.4% 1.9%
25 to 44 31,023 23% 2.7%
45 to 64 31,184 23.2% -0.1%
Over 65 23,326 17.3% 3.2%
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 Pickens County, 95.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.2% of locals are Caucasian, 5.8% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 128,886 95.7% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,578 1.9% -2.0%
Non-citizens 3,165 2.4% 1.1%
Racial breakdown
White
84.2%
Black or African American
5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 113,363 84.2%
Black or African American 7,765 5.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 312 0.2%
Asian 2,209 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 281 0.2%
Two or more races 7,579 5.6%
Other 3,120 2.3%

Households in Pickens County

A peek inside Pickens County households

Pickens County has 52,414 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.9% are families, while the remaining 38.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
52,414
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
19,977
Family households
32,437
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 19,977 38.1% 4.6%
Family households 32,437 61.9% 0.4%
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 Pickens County

The housing landscape of Pickens County

Pickens County's housing consists of 58,677 units, with 63.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 16.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
58,677
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 37,007 63.1%
1 unit, attached 1,282 2.2%
2 units 1,589 2.7%
3 or 4 units 1,906 3.2%
5 to 9 units 2,387 4.1%
10 to 19 units 2,511 4.3%
20 to 49 units 1,167 2%
50 or more units 1,099 1.9%
Mobile home 9,523 16.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 206 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
1,883
113.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pickens County

In Pickens County, the median construction year is 1989. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,383 4.1% -3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,630 2.8% 7.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,561 6.1% -4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,729 8.1% -1.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,064 13.7% -0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,002 17% 3.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,454 19.5% -0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,692 14.8% -2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,279 10.7% 2.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,883 3.2% 113.5%
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.

Pickens County occupancy rates

Out of the 52,414 occupied housing units in Pickens County, 70.9% are owner-occupied, while 29.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
52,414
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,255
Owner occupied
37,159
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,255 29.1% 0.7%
Owner occupied 37,159 70.9% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
10.7%
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.

Pickens County housing costs

Housing costs in Pickens County come to a median of $912 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $972.

Median housing costs per month
$912/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 Pickens County
$972/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 Pickens County

Pickens County education at a glance

About 39.1% of the population in Pickens County went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 9.9% earned an associate degree and 14.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,095 2.8% 0.7%
High school diploma 42,892 39.1% 3.9%
College diploma 25,855 23.6% -3.7%
Associate degree 10,865 9.9% 3.2%
Bachelor's degree 16,014 14.6% 2.6%
Graduate degree 10,887 9.9% 4.8%
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 Pickens County

How much people earn in Pickens County

The average annual household income in Pickens County was $86,979 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,064, reflecting a +2.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pickens County
$86,979/year
5.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pickens County
$61,064/year
2.8% year-over-year change

Pickens County income by age

In Pickens County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,558. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,522 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,782, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,270 in earnings. Overall, 82.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,782 -4.0%
25 - 44 $73,558 -0.0%
45 - 64 $81,522 7.0%
Over 65 $47,270 4.9%
Above poverty level
103,536
Below poverty level
21,316
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 103,536 82.9% 1.3%
Below poverty level 21,316 17.1% 0.3%

Employment in Pickens County

Workforce and job types in Pickens County

The job market in Pickens County is powered by 61,823 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 67.6% are employed by private companies, and 16.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
61,823
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
46,892
Blue collar
14,931
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 46,892 75.8% 1.0%
Blue collar 14,931 24.2% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
67.6%
Governmental workers
16.4%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,457 8.8% 1.0%
Private companies 41,824 67.6% -0.2%
Governmental workers 10,127 16.4% 2.0%
Not for profit companies 4,415 7.1% 2.3%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pickens County stands at 3.6%, 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 Pickens County

How people get around in Pickens County

Commuting methods vary: 86.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% 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 52,093 86.3% 0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 363 0.6% -38.7%
Railroad 11 0% -15.4%
Motorcycle 154 0.3% 4.0%
Bicycle 45 0.1% -66.4%
Walk 1,151 1.9% -9.7%
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 Pickens County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29630 15,982 6,973 $55,264 $68,806
29631 16,849 6,556 $48,800 $90,600
29634 6,048 25 $0 $0
29635 1,366 470 $71,844 $80,667
29640 33,142 13,071 $62,207 $96,397
29642 36,852 14,852 $78,221 $92,298
29657 16,390 6,207 $64,833 $89,030
29661 6,657 2,881 $55,099 $68,469
29667 240 86 $83,077 $80,813
29671 18,666 7,424 $61,749 $84,333

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FAQs about Pickens County demographics 

What is the total population of Pickens County?

Pickens County has a total population of 134,629 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pickens County?

The gender ratio in Pickens County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (67,228 residents)
  • 50.1% females (67,401 residents)

What is the median age in Pickens County?

The median age in Pickens County is 36.2.

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

The age distribution in Pickens County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.1% (20,308 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 21.4% (28,788 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23% (31,023 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.2% (31,184 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (23,326 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pickens County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pickens County is as follows:
  • White: 84.2% (113,363 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.8% (7,765 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (312 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (2,209 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (281 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (7,579 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (3,120 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.7% of the population in Pickens County.

How many housing units are there in Pickens County?

There are 58,677 housing units in Pickens County, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pickens County has a total of 52,414 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pickens County?

Pickens County has a median household income of $61,064, representing a +2.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Pickens County, with a workforce of 61,823 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.8% (46,892 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.2% (14,931 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (5,457 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.6% (41,824 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.4% (10,127 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (4,415 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