Clemson, SC
Population 17,759 · South Carolina
About Clemson, SC
Clemson is a mid-sized city in South Carolina with a population of 17,759 residents. The median household income is $49,713 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Clemson is 24.6 years.
Housing in Clemson has a median home value of $359,100 and median monthly rent of $972. Of the 8,423 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 2,678 owner-occupied and 4,868 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Clemson is 4.1% and the poverty rate is 36.1%. 59.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.5 minutes.
How Clemson Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in Clemson, SC
Compared to national averages, Clemson has a median household income of $49,713 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $359,100, which is 47% above the national median. Monthly rent at $972 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Clemson's income is 15% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 78% above the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Clemson, SC?
Clemson offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $972/month, and a well-educated community where 59.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 19.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,713) that falls below the national average. However, Clemson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Clemson has a population of 17,759 with a median age of 24.6 years. Compare Clemson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Clemson
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Columbia | 17,723 | $54,152 | $186,200 | Compare |
| Berea | 16,642 | $48,104 | $187,200 | Compare |
| Red Hill | 16,480 | $62,132 | $223,900 | Compare |
| Five Forks | 19,093 | $140,668 | $424,600 | Compare |
| Ladson | 16,261 | $83,031 | $222,100 | Compare |
| North Myrtle Beach | 19,343 | $72,111 | $371,900 | Compare |
| Seven Oaks | 15,990 | $64,003 | $195,900 | Compare |
| Dentsville | 15,396 | $44,029 | $154,600 | 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 Clemson
What is the population of Clemson, SC?
The population of Clemson, SC is 17,759 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Clemson?
The median household income in Clemson, SC is $49,713 per year.
What is the median home value in Clemson?
The median home value in Clemson, SC is $359,100.
What is the average rent in Clemson?
The median monthly rent in Clemson, SC is $972.
What is the unemployment rate in Clemson?
The unemployment rate in Clemson, SC is 4.1%.