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

Total population
422,117
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,784/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
187,611
1.3% year-over-year change

Richland County population

How many people live in Richland County

Richland County is home to 422,117 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48% of Richland County locals are male, and 52% are female.

Total population
422,117
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48%
202,758
Female
52%
219,359
Value Percent YoY change
Male 202,758 48% 0.8%
Female 219,359 52% 0.8%
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 Richland County is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 18.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27% of the population, while another 22.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
18.7%
25 to 44
27%
45 to 64
22.6%
Over 65
14.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 74,321 17.6% -0.2%
15 to 24 79,085 18.7% 1.0%
25 to 44 113,889 27% 0.7%
45 to 64 95,354 22.6% -0.1%
Over 65 59,468 14.1% 3.6%
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 Richland County, 92% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.4% of locals are Caucasian, 47.4% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.8%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 388,482 92% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 20,308 4.8% 1.0%
Non-citizens 13,327 3.2% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
40.4%
Black or African American
47.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6%
Other
2.9%
Value Percent
White 170,439 40.4%
Black or African American 200,284 47.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 885 0.2%
Asian 12,651 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 334 0.1%
Two or more races 25,339 6%
Other 12,185 2.9%

Households in Richland County

A peek inside Richland County households

Richland County has 167,961 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.9% are families, while the remaining 42.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
167,961
1.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
70,688
Family households
97,273
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 70,688 42.1% 1.8%
Family households 97,273 57.9% 1.5%
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 Richland County

The housing landscape of Richland County

Richland County's housing consists of 187,611 units, with 63.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 4.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
187,611
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 119,521 63.7%
1 unit, attached 6,954 3.7%
2 units 4,307 2.3%
3 or 4 units 8,010 4.3%
5 to 9 units 12,323 6.6%
10 to 19 units 9,774 5.2%
20 to 49 units 7,002 3.7%
50 or more units 10,959 5.8%
Mobile home 8,488 4.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 273 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
4,381
77.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Richland County

In Richland County, the median construction year is 1989. About 4.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 8,022 4.3% -0.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7,155 3.8% 2.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 13,985 7.4% -7.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,684 8.9% 0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 24,869 13.3% -2.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 24,539 13.1% 3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 24,960 13.3% -7.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 36,020 19.2% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 26,996 14.4% 6.2%
Built in 2020 or later 4,381 2.3% 77.9%
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.

Richland County occupancy rates

Out of the 167,961 occupied housing units in Richland County, 60.3% are owner-occupied, while 39.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
167,961
1.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
66,738
Owner occupied
101,223
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 66,738 39.7% 1.9%
Owner occupied 101,223 60.3% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Richland County housing costs

Housing costs in Richland County come to a median of $1,218 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,228.

Median housing costs per month
$1,218/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 Richland County
$1,228/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 Richland County

Richland County education at a glance

About 29.4% of the population in Richland County went to high school, while 25.2% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 6,651 2% 6.8%
High school diploma 97,294 29.4% 2.0%
College diploma 83,511 25.2% 0.0%
Associate degree 26,410 8% 0.8%
Bachelor's degree 70,489 21.3% 1.4%
Graduate degree 46,793 14.1% -0.6%
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 Richland County

How much people earn in Richland County

The average annual household income in Richland County was $90,966 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 $63,784, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Richland County
$90,966/year
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Richland County
$63,784/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Richland County income by age

In Richland County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,471. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,280 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $26,364, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,737 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 $26,364 1.9%
25 - 44 $64,471 3.5%
45 - 64 $81,280 1.7%
Over 65 $55,737 7.3%
Above poverty level
324,440
Below poverty level
67,036
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 324,440 82.9% 0.8%
Below poverty level 67,036 17.1% 3.0%

Employment in Richland County

Workforce and job types in Richland County

The job market in Richland County is powered by 199,082 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 62.5% are employed by private companies, and 21.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
199,082
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
163,809
Blue collar
35,273
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 163,809 82.3% 0.6%
Blue collar 35,273 17.7% 2.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
62.5%
Governmental workers
21.7%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 16,018 8% -0.7%
Private companies 124,341 62.5% 1.8%
Governmental workers 43,218 21.7% -2.1%
Not for profit companies 15,505 7.8% 3.4%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Richland County stands at 6.4%, 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 Richland County

How people get around in Richland County

Commuting methods vary: 79.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.4% 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 161,044 79.2% -1.4%
Taxicab 947 0.5% 42.0%
Bus or trolleybus 1,338 0.7% -27.2%
Subway or elevated 31 0% N/A
Railroad 44 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 181 0.1% 18.3%
Bicycle 205 0.1% -24.6%
Walk 11,035 5.4% -11.1%
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 Richland County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29052 2,199 799 $52,775 $76,315
29061 12,538 4,773 $60,307 $81,533
29063 38,201 14,247 $91,973 $120,651
29075 2,848 1,299 $75,884 $90,724
29078 16,283 6,300 $67,727 $80,654
29016 30,454 11,547 $95,082 $112,122
29036 26,620 10,146 $113,986 $138,599
29044 4,799 2,028 $57,297 $56,695
29045 31,372 11,680 $87,366 $110,838

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FAQs about Richland County demographics 

What is the total population of Richland County?

Richland County has a total population of 422,117 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Richland County?

The gender ratio in Richland County is as follows:
  • 48% males (202,758 residents)
  • 52% females (219,359 residents)

What is the median age in Richland County?

The median age in Richland County is 34.4.

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

The age distribution in Richland County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (74,321 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.7% (79,085 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27% (113,889 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.6% (95,354 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.1% (59,468 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Richland County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Richland County is as follows:
  • White: 40.4% (170,439 residents)
  • Black or African American: 47.4% (200,284 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (885 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (12,651 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (334 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (25,339 residents)
  • Other: 2.9% (12,185 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92% of the population in Richland County.

How many housing units are there in Richland County?

There are 187,611 housing units in Richland County, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Richland County has a total of 167,961 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Richland County?

Richland County has a median household income of $63,784, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.6% in Richland County, with a workforce of 199,082 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.3% (163,809 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.7% (35,273 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (16,018 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.5% (124,341 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.7% (43,218 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (15,505 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