Spartanburg, SC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
38,910
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,964/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,458
-0.7% year-over-year change

Spartanburg population

How many people live in Spartanburg

Spartanburg is home to 38,910 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.6% of Spartanburg locals are male, and 55.4% are female.

Total population
38,910
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.6%
17,352
Female
55.4%
21,558
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,352 44.6% -1.3%
Female 21,558 55.4% 2.7%
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 Spartanburg is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 15.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 21.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
15.5%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
21.7%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,328 18.8% -2.7%
15 to 24 6,042 15.5% 5.0%
25 to 44 10,383 26.7% -0.6%
45 to 64 8,441 21.7% 3.4%
Over 65 6,716 17.3% 0.5%
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 Spartanburg, 92.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 49% of locals are Caucasian, 39.4% are African American and 2.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.3%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,956 92.4% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,665 4.3% 3.4%
Non-citizens 1,289 3.3% 30.9%
Racial breakdown
White
49%
Black or African American
39.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.3%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 19,054 49%
Black or African American 15,317 39.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 73 0.2%
Asian 807 2.1%
Two or more races 2,844 7.3%
Other 815 2.1%

Households in Spartanburg

A peek inside Spartanburg households

Spartanburg has 15,924 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57% are families, while the remaining 43% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,924
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,853
Family households
9,071
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,853 43% -1.1%
Family households 9,071 57% 0.7%
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 Spartanburg

The housing landscape of Spartanburg

Spartanburg's housing consists of 17,458 units, with 62.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.8% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,458
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,945 62.7%
1 unit, attached 657 3.8%
2 units 780 4.5%
3 or 4 units 1,338 7.7%
5 to 9 units 1,339 7.7%
10 to 19 units 811 4.6%
20 to 49 units 566 3.2%
50 or more units 824 4.7%
Mobile home 198 1.1%
Homes built since 2020
344
82.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Spartanburg

In Spartanburg, the median construction year is 1968. About 11.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6% 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 2,081 11.9% 2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,592 9.1% 8.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,385 13.7% -10.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,148 18% 1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,600 14.9% -13.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,902 10.9% 8.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,056 6% -1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,297 7.4% -2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,053 6% 9.6%
Built in 2020 or later 344 2% 82.0%
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.

Spartanburg occupancy rates

Out of the 15,924 occupied housing units in Spartanburg, 53.9% are owner-occupied, while 46.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,924
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,347
Owner occupied
8,577
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,347 46.1% -1.2%
Owner occupied 8,577 53.9% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
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.

Spartanburg housing costs

Housing costs in Spartanburg come to a median of $1,054 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,099.

Median housing costs per month
$1,054/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 Spartanburg
$1,099/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 Spartanburg

Spartanburg education at a glance

About 40.1% of the population in Spartanburg went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 17.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 880 2.9% 5.8%
High school diploma 12,090 40.1% 2.7%
College diploma 6,310 20.9% 2.6%
Associate degree 2,118 7% -1.6%
Bachelor's degree 5,338 17.7% -3.0%
Graduate degree 3,418 11.3% 5.5%
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 Spartanburg

How much people earn in Spartanburg

The average annual household income in Spartanburg was $77,505 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,964, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Spartanburg
$77,505/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Spartanburg
$51,964/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Spartanburg income by age

In Spartanburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $60,406. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,431 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,267, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,811 in earnings. Overall, 76.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,267 6.4%
25 - 44 $60,406 8.5%
45 - 64 $53,431 0.1%
Over 65 $39,811 -0.6%
Above poverty level
27,428
Below poverty level
8,517
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,428 76.3% 0.9%
Below poverty level 8,517 23.7% -0.4%

Average renter income in Spartanburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Spartanburg, their median household income was $30,317 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 43.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,317
Rent-to-income ratio
43.5%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Spartanburg

Workforce and job types in Spartanburg

The job market in Spartanburg is powered by 16,739 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 69.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,739
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
12,277
Blue collar
4,462
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,277 73.3% -0.8%
Blue collar 4,462 26.7% -1.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
69.6%
Governmental workers
13.5%
Not for profit companies
8.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,472 8.8% -0.4%
Private companies 11,652 69.6% 0.6%
Governmental workers 2,260 13.5% -8.0%
Not for profit companies 1,355 8.1% -3.5%
Unemployment rate
7.4%
6.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Spartanburg stands at 7.4%, 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 Spartanburg

How people get around in Spartanburg

Commuting methods vary: 88.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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 14,367 88.6% -1.1%
Taxicab 48 0.3% -25.0%
Bus or trolleybus 117 0.7% -17.0%
Subway or elevated 10 0.1% N/A
Ferryboat 10 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 31 0.2% 72.2%
Walk 374 2.3% 3.3%
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 Spartanburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
29301 36,278 13,670 $57,805 $81,686
29302 19,918 7,822 $80,819 $111,565
29306 16,714 6,753 $41,356 $59,718
29307 19,115 8,030 $65,850 $87,579

Explore more communities

FAQs about Spartanburg demographics 

What is the total population of Spartanburg?

Spartanburg has a total population of 38,910 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 Spartanburg?

The gender ratio in Spartanburg is as follows:
  • 44.6% males (17,352 residents)
  • 55.4% females (21,558 residents)

What is the median age in Spartanburg?

The median age in Spartanburg is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Spartanburg?

The age distribution in Spartanburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (7,328 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.5% (6,042 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (10,383 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.7% (8,441 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (6,716 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Spartanburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Spartanburg is as follows:
  • White: 49% (19,054 residents)
  • Black or African American: 39.4% (15,317 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (73 residents)
  • Asian: 2.1% (807 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.3% (2,844 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (815 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.4% of the population in Spartanburg.

How many housing units are there in Spartanburg?

There are 17,458 housing units in Spartanburg, reflecting a -0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Spartanburg has a total of 15,924 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Spartanburg?

Spartanburg has a median household income of $51,964, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Spartanburg?

The employment rate is 92.6% in Spartanburg, with a workforce of 16,739 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.3% (12,277 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.7% (4,462 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (1,472 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.6% (11,652 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.5% (2,260 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.1% (1,355 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