Brookdale, SC
Population 4,061 · South Carolina
About Brookdale, SC
Brookdale is a small town located in South Carolina with a population of 4,061 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $34,279 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 Brookdale features a median home value of $85,400, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Brookdale one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $711, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,383 total housing units, 48% are owner-occupied (713 units) and 52% are renter-occupied (776 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brookdale shows an unemployment rate of 14.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 36.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Brookdale have an average one-way commute time of 22.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.1% of Brookdale 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, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brookdale, SC
Compared to national averages, Brookdale has a median household income of $34,279 (54% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $85,400, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $711 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Brookdale's income is 42% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 58% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Brookdale, SC?
Brookdale offers affordable housing with a median home value of $85,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $711/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($34,279) that falls below the national average. However, Brookdale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Brookdale has a population of 4,061 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Brookdale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Brookdale
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Williamston | 4,116 | $62,500 | $156,700 | Compare |
| Walhalla | 4,121 | $42,696 | $176,500 | Compare |
| Southern Shops | 3,985 | $35,016 | $102,200 | Compare |
| Saxon | 4,139 | $28,394 | $68,900 | Compare |
| Newport | 4,142 | $107,143 | $310,300 | Compare |
| Edgefield | 3,977 | $37,500 | $108,900 | Compare |
| Mullins | 3,965 | $30,750 | $89,400 | Compare |
| Capitol View | 4,161 | $47,054 | $152,700 | 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 Brookdale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brookdale
What is the population of Brookdale, SC?
The population of Brookdale, SC is 4,061 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 Brookdale?
The median household income in Brookdale, SC is $34,279 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brookdale?
The median home value in Brookdale, SC is $85,400, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Brookdale?
The median monthly rent in Brookdale, SC is $711, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brookdale?
The unemployment rate in Brookdale, SC is 14.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Brookdale, SC a good place to live?
Brookdale offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,061 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Brookdale, SC?
14.1% of residents in Brookdale 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 Brookdale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brookdale, SC: median home value is $85,400 (65% below national), median rent is $711/month, and median household income is $34,279. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brookdale?
The poverty rate in Brookdale, SC is 36.1%, 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 Brookdale, SC?
Brookdale's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 98.5% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.