Gaffney, SC
Population 12,612 · South Carolina
About Gaffney, SC
Gaffney is a mid-sized city in South Carolina with a population of 12,612 residents. The median household income is $41,214 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Gaffney is 32.8 years.
Housing in Gaffney has a median home value of $141,100 and median monthly rent of $822. Of the 5,422 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,523 owner-occupied and 2,130 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Gaffney is 11.3% and the poverty rate is 24.8%. 21.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.9 minutes.
How Gaffney Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in Gaffney, SC
Compared to national averages, Gaffney has a median household income of $41,214 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $141,100, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $822 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Gaffney's income is 30% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 30% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Gaffney, SC?
Gaffney offers affordable housing with a median home value of $141,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $822/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,214) that falls below the national average. However, Gaffney’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Gaffney has a population of 12,612 with a median age of 32.8 years. Compare Gaffney with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Gaffney
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling Springs | 12,609 | $79,798 | $230,000 | Compare |
| Parker | 12,564 | $38,607 | $121,800 | Compare |
| Orangeburg | 13,189 | $33,066 | $145,000 | Compare |
| Oak Grove | 12,031 | $75,506 | $195,700 | Compare |
| Tega Cay | 13,267 | $141,037 | $494,500 | Compare |
| Irmo | 11,799 | $85,137 | $193,100 | Compare |
| James Island | 11,738 | $100,176 | $454,200 | Compare |
| Beaufort | 13,660 | $59,454 | $310,400 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Gaffney
What is the population of Gaffney, SC?
The population of Gaffney, SC is 12,612 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Gaffney?
The median household income in Gaffney, SC is $41,214 per year.
What is the median home value in Gaffney?
The median home value in Gaffney, SC is $141,100.
What is the average rent in Gaffney?
The median monthly rent in Gaffney, SC is $822.
What is the unemployment rate in Gaffney?
The unemployment rate in Gaffney, SC is 11.3%.