Central, SC
Population 5,299 · South Carolina
About Central, SC
Central is a small community in South Carolina with a population of 5,299 residents. The median household income is $58,262 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Central is 22.7 years.
Housing in Central has a median home value of $228,500 and median monthly rent of $973. Of the 2,162 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 435 owner-occupied and 1,457 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Central is 5.0% and the poverty rate is 31.4%. 48.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.2 minutes.
How Central Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in Central, SC
Compared to national averages, Central has a median household income of $58,262 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $228,500, which is 7% below the national median. Monthly rent at $973 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Central's income is 1% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 13% above the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Central, SC?
Central offers affordable housing with a median home value of $228,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $973/month, and a well-educated community where 48.6% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 19.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,262) that falls below the national average. However, Central’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Central has a population of 5,299 with a median age of 22.7 years. Compare Central with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Central
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blythewood | 5,309 | $105,583 | $368,300 | Compare |
| Hollywood | 5,330 | $77,415 | $450,400 | Compare |
| Chester | 5,241 | $41,231 | $106,400 | Compare |
| Belvedere | 5,458 | $57,933 | $120,400 | Compare |
| Walterboro | 5,490 | $48,366 | $170,500 | Compare |
| Cheraw | 5,024 | $27,275 | $113,400 | Compare |
| Laurel Bay | 5,627 | $52,094 | $221,300 | Compare |
| Batesburg-Leesville | 4,935 | $53,102 | $130,500 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Central
What is the population of Central, SC?
The population of Central, SC is 5,299 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Central?
The median household income in Central, SC is $58,262 per year.
What is the median home value in Central?
The median home value in Central, SC is $228,500.
What is the average rent in Central?
The median monthly rent in Central, SC is $973.
What is the unemployment rate in Central?
The unemployment rate in Central, SC is 5.0%.