Barnwell, SC
Population 4,616 · South Carolina
About Barnwell, SC
Barnwell is a small town located in South Carolina with a population of 4,616 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,239 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Barnwell features a median home value of $137,300, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Barnwell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $545, 53% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,265 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (1,130 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (630 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Barnwell shows an unemployment rate of 15.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 33.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Barnwell have an average one-way commute time of 22.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.1% of Barnwell residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.2% Asian residents, with 7.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Barnwell Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in Barnwell, SC
Compared to national averages, Barnwell has a median household income of $43,239 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,300, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $545 is 53% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Barnwell's income is 26% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 32% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Barnwell, SC?
Barnwell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $137,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $545/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,239) that falls below the national average. However, Barnwell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Barnwell has a population of 4,616 with a median age of 33.5 years. Compare Barnwell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Barnwell
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belton | 4,405 | $48,164 | $116,300 | Compare |
| Abbeville | 4,863 | $38,983 | $108,500 | Compare |
| Baxter Village | 4,355 | $146,440 | $547,300 | Compare |
| Isle of Palms | 4,350 | $148,029 | $1,192,200 | Compare |
| Woodruff | 4,337 | $64,292 | $188,500 | Compare |
| Batesburg-Leesville | 4,935 | $53,102 | $130,500 | Compare |
| Surfside Beach | 4,217 | $74,202 | $412,100 | Compare |
| East Camden | 4,210 | $53,234 | $150,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in South Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Barnwell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Barnwell
What is the population of Barnwell, SC?
The population of Barnwell, SC is 4,616 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in Barnwell?
The median household income in Barnwell, SC is $43,239 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Barnwell?
The median home value in Barnwell, SC is $137,300, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Barnwell?
The median monthly rent in Barnwell, SC is $545, which is 53% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Barnwell?
The unemployment rate in Barnwell, SC is 15.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Barnwell, SC a good place to live?
Barnwell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,616 and a median age of 33.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Barnwell, SC?
18.1% of residents in Barnwell aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Barnwell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Barnwell, SC: median home value is $137,300 (44% below national), median rent is $545/month, and median household income is $43,239. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Barnwell?
The poverty rate in Barnwell, SC is 33.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Barnwell, SC?
Barnwell's population is 0.0% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 47.7% two or more races. 7.4% of residents are foreign-born.