Chester, SC
Population 5,241 · South Carolina
About Chester, SC
Chester is a small community in South Carolina with a population of 5,241 residents. The median household income is $41,231 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Chester is 37.3 years.
Housing in Chester has a median home value of $106,400 and median monthly rent of $905. Of the 2,601 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,230 owner-occupied and 1,032 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chester is 11.6% and the poverty rate is 25.0%. 13.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 31.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Chester, SC
Compared to national averages, Chester has a median household income of $41,231 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,400, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $905 is 22% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Chester's income is 30% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 47% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Chester, SC?
Chester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $905/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,231) that falls below the national average. However, Chester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chester has a population of 5,241 with a median age of 37.3 years. Compare Chester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Chester
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central | 5,299 | $58,262 | $228,500 | Compare |
| Blythewood | 5,309 | $105,583 | $368,300 | Compare |
| Hollywood | 5,330 | $77,415 | $450,400 | Compare |
| Belvedere | 5,458 | $57,933 | $120,400 | Compare |
| Cheraw | 5,024 | $27,275 | $113,400 | Compare |
| Walterboro | 5,490 | $48,366 | $170,500 | Compare |
| Batesburg-Leesville | 4,935 | $53,102 | $130,500 | Compare |
| Abbeville | 4,863 | $38,983 | $108,500 | 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 Chester
What is the population of Chester, SC?
The population of Chester, SC is 5,241 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chester?
The median household income in Chester, SC is $41,231 per year.
What is the median home value in Chester?
The median home value in Chester, SC is $106,400.
What is the average rent in Chester?
The median monthly rent in Chester, SC is $905.
What is the unemployment rate in Chester?
The unemployment rate in Chester, SC is 11.6%.