Helena, SC
Population 571 · South Carolina
About Helena, SC
Helena is a small community located in South Carolina with a population of 571 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Helena features a median home value of $132,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Helena one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $892, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 445 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (235 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (91 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Helena shows an unemployment rate of 3.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 20.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Helena have an average one-way commute time of 14 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
30.5% of Helena residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Helena, SC
Compared to national averages, Helena has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $132,100, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $892 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Helena's income is 100% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 35% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Helena, SC?
Helena offers affordable housing with a median home value of $132,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $892/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 14 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, Helena’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Helena has a population of 571 with a median age of 49.2 years. Compare Helena with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Helena
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastover | 566 | $22,750 | $110,400 | Compare |
| Modoc | 576 | $95,500 | $411,200 | Compare |
| Fair Play | 578 | $113,466 | $230,900 | Compare |
| Gilbert | 563 | $76,364 | $239,100 | Compare |
| Little Rock | 560 | $55,104 | $62,700 | Compare |
| Bucksport | 583 | $0 | $180,200 | Compare |
| Hickory Grove | 559 | $61,250 | $119,400 | Compare |
| Pinewood | 559 | $27,500 | $88,500 | 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.
Compare Helena With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Helena
What is the population of Helena, SC?
The population of Helena, SC is 571 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in Helena?
The median household income in Helena, SC is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Helena?
The median home value in Helena, SC is $132,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Helena?
The median monthly rent in Helena, SC is $892, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Helena?
The unemployment rate in Helena, SC is 3.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Helena, SC a good place to live?
Helena offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 571 and a median age of 49.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Helena, SC?
30.5% of residents in Helena aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Helena?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Helena, SC: median home value is $132,100 (46% below national), median rent is $892/month, and median household income is $0. The home-value-to-income ratio is Infinityx, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Helena?
The poverty rate in Helena, SC is 20.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Helena, SC?
Helena's population is 0.0% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 99.1% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.