Charleston, SC
Population 152,014 · South Carolina
About Charleston, SC
Charleston is a major city in South Carolina with a population of 152,014 residents. The median household income is $90,038 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Charleston is 36.1 years.
Housing in Charleston has a median home value of $469,100 and median monthly rent of $1,632. Of the 75,826 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 36,929 owner-occupied and 29,479 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Charleston is 3.4% and the poverty rate is 12.0%. 57.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23.8 minutes.
How Charleston Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in Charleston, SC
Compared to national averages, Charleston has a median household income of $90,038 (20% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $469,100, which is 92% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,632 is 40% above the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Charleston's income is 53% above the state average of $58,738, and home values are 132% above the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Charleston, SC?
Charleston offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,038, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%, and a well-educated community where 57.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 12.0%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 23.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $469,100. However, as a major city, Charleston provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Charleston has a population of 152,014 with a median age of 36.1 years. Compare Charleston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Charleston
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | 138,019 | $55,653 | $243,500 | Compare |
| North Charleston | 117,460 | $62,789 | $267,700 | Compare |
| Mount Pleasant | 92,662 | $121,364 | $667,100 | Compare |
| Rock Hill | 74,769 | $64,770 | $267,400 | Compare |
| Greenville | 71,755 | $68,460 | $453,300 | Compare |
| Summerville | 51,262 | $78,621 | $295,700 | Compare |
| Goose Creek | 46,964 | $87,437 | $279,500 | Compare |
| Sumter | 43,065 | $53,071 | $188,400 | 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 Charleston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Charleston
What is the population of Charleston, SC?
The population of Charleston, SC is 152,014 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Charleston?
The median household income in Charleston, SC is $90,038 per year.
What is the median home value in Charleston?
The median home value in Charleston, SC is $469,100.
What is the average rent in Charleston?
The median monthly rent in Charleston, SC is $1,632.
What is the unemployment rate in Charleston?
The unemployment rate in Charleston, SC is 3.4%.