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

Total population
19,131
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,009/yr
-3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,543
1.3% year-over-year change

Saluda County population

How many people live in Saluda County

Saluda County is home to 19,131 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Saluda County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
19,131
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
9,509
Female
50.3%
9,622
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,509 49.7% -0.7%
Female 9,622 50.3% 2.6%
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 Saluda County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.6% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
22.6%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,447 18% 1.0%
15 to 24 2,255 11.8% 1.9%
25 to 44 4,333 22.6% 3.0%
45 to 64 5,156 27% -2.8%
Over 65 3,940 20.6% 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 Saluda County, 90.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.9% of locals are Caucasian, 21.2% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 12.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.6%
Non-citizens
5.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,339 90.6% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 686 3.6% 0.7%
Non-citizens 1,106 5.8% 2.9%
Racial breakdown
White
58.9%
Black or African American
21.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.9%
Other
6.2%
Value Percent
White 11,275 58.9%
Black or African American 4,063 21.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 76 0.4%
Asian 71 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0%
Two or more races 2,460 12.9%
Other 1,179 6.2%

Households in Saluda County

A peek inside Saluda County households

Saluda County has 7,670 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 72.5% are families, while the remaining 27.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,670
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,107
Family households
5,563
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,107 27.5% 8.7%
Family households 5,563 72.5% -0.1%
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 Saluda County

The housing landscape of Saluda County

Saluda County's housing consists of 9,543 units, with 68.3% 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 27.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,543
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,515 68.3%
1 unit, attached 58 0.6%
2 units 17 0.2%
3 or 4 units 91 1%
5 to 9 units 171 1.8%
10 to 19 units 6 0.1%
20 to 49 units 12 0.1%
Mobile home 2,654 27.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
191
34.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Saluda County

In Saluda County, the median construction year is 1987. About 8.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 836 8.8% -3.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 507 5.3% 1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 598 6.3% 3.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 783 8.2% 40.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,097 11.5% -12.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,360 14.2% 4.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,187 22.9% 0.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,137 11.9% 6.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 847 8.9% -13.0%
Built in 2020 or later 191 2% 34.5%
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.

Saluda County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,670 occupied housing units in Saluda County, 78.7% are owner-occupied, while 21.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,670
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,635
Owner occupied
6,035
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,635 21.3% -0.6%
Owner occupied 6,035 78.7% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
19.6%
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.

Saluda County housing costs

Housing costs in Saluda County come to a median of $666 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $851.

Median housing costs per month
$666/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 Saluda County
$851/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 Saluda County

Saluda County education at a glance

About 47.8% of the population in Saluda County went to high school, while 17% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 11.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 969 6.5% 4.4%
High school diploma 7,136 47.8% -2.0%
College diploma 2,533 17% -0.4%
Associate degree 1,438 9.6% 9.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,673 11.2% 3.3%
Graduate degree 1,186 7.9% 5.0%
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 Saluda County

How much people earn in Saluda County

The average annual household income in Saluda County was $73,199 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,009, reflecting a -3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Saluda County
$73,199/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Saluda County
$51,009/year
-3.7% year-over-year change

Saluda County income by age

In Saluda County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,893. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $68,481 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,288, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,109 in earnings. Overall, 81.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,288 16.1%
25 - 44 $60,893 -1.7%
45 - 64 $68,481 3.2%
Over 65 $37,109 -12.6%
Above poverty level
15,174
Below poverty level
3,500
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,174 81.3% 1.6%
Below poverty level 3,500 18.7% -2.6%

Employment in Saluda County

Workforce and job types in Saluda County

The job market in Saluda County is powered by 8,473 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19% run their own businesses, 59.7% are employed by private companies, and 16.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,473
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,689
Blue collar
2,784
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,689 67.1% 5.4%
Blue collar 2,784 32.9% -5.8%
Employer type
Self employees
19%
Private companies
59.7%
Governmental workers
16.1%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,607 19% 21.5%
Private companies 5,057 59.7% -5.2%
Governmental workers 1,366 16.1% 9.5%
Not for profit companies 443 5.2% -1.1%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
39.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Saluda County stands at 3.2%, 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 Saluda County

How people get around in Saluda County

Commuting methods vary: 85.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% 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 6,975 85.8% -1.0%
Bus or trolleybus 11 0.1% 450.0%
Subway or elevated 8 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 6 0.1% -40.0%
Walk 203 2.5% 78.1%
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 Saluda County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29070 15,657 6,375 $65,865 $85,968
29105 1,621 536 $94,444 $77,202
29037 983 383 $72,768 $74,159
29006 9,199 3,791 $50,379 $68,905
29129 4,605 1,663 $61,103 $82,686
29138 10,018 3,808 $44,579 $64,915
29166 611 244 $45,652 $68,512
29832 5,074 2,154 $42,500 $60,676

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FAQs about Saluda County demographics 

What is the total population of Saluda County?

Saluda County has a total population of 19,131 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Saluda County?

The gender ratio in Saluda County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (9,509 residents)
  • 50.3% females (9,622 residents)

What is the median age in Saluda County?

The median age in Saluda County is 42.6.

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

The age distribution in Saluda County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (3,447 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (2,255 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.6% (4,333 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (5,156 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (3,940 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Saluda County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Saluda County is as follows:
  • White: 58.9% (11,275 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.2% (4,063 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (76 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (71 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.9% (2,460 residents)
  • Other: 6.2% (1,179 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.6% of the population in Saluda County.

How many housing units are there in Saluda County?

There are 9,543 housing units in Saluda 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 Saluda County and what is the average household size?

Saluda County has a total of 7,670 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Saluda County?

Saluda County has a median household income of $51,009, representing a -3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.8% in Saluda County, with a workforce of 8,473 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.1% (5,689 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.9% (2,784 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19% (1,607 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.7% (5,057 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.1% (1,366 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (443 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