Bethune, SC
Population 421 · South Carolina
About Bethune, SC
Bethune is a small community located in South Carolina with a population of 421 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,656 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bethune features a median home value of $96,400, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bethune one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,644, 41% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 244 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (128 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (61 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bethune shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 35.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bethune have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.6% of Bethune 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 11.2% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 5.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bethune, SC
Compared to national averages, Bethune has a median household income of $42,656 (43% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $96,400, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,644 is 41% above the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Bethune's income is 27% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 52% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Bethune, SC?
Bethune offers affordable housing with a median home value of $96,400, below the US average of $244,900.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,656) that falls below the national average. However, Bethune’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bethune has a population of 421 with a median age of 38 years. Compare Bethune with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Bethune
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in South Carolina
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bethune
What is the population of Bethune, SC?
The population of Bethune, SC is 421 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in Bethune?
The median household income in Bethune, SC is $42,656 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bethune?
The median home value in Bethune, SC is $96,400, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bethune?
The median monthly rent in Bethune, SC is $1,644, which is 41% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bethune?
The unemployment rate in Bethune, SC is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bethune, SC a good place to live?
Bethune offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 421 and a median age of 38, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Bethune, SC?
21.6% of residents in Bethune 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 Bethune?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bethune, SC: median home value is $96,400 (61% below national), median rent is $1,644/month, and median household income is $42,656. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bethune?
The poverty rate in Bethune, SC is 35.2%, 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 Bethune, SC?
Bethune's population is 11.2% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 5.9% two or more races. 5.5% of residents are foreign-born.