James Island, SC
Population 11,738 · South Carolina
About James Island, SC
James Island is a mid-sized city in South Carolina with a population of 11,738 residents. The median household income is $100,176 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in James Island is 41.3 years.
Housing in James Island has a median home value of $454,200 and median monthly rent of $1,443. Of the 4,683 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,777 owner-occupied and 621 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in James Island is 1.4% and the poverty rate is 5.4%. 48.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.6 minutes.
How James Island Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in James Island, SC
Compared to national averages, James Island has a median household income of $100,176 (33% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $454,200, which is 85% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,443 is 24% above the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, James Island's income is 71% above the state average of $58,738, and home values are 125% above the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in James Island, SC?
James Island offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $100,176, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.4%, and a well-educated community where 48.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $454,200. However, James Island’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
James Island has a population of 11,738 with a median age of 41.3 years. Compare James Island with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near James Island
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irmo | 11,799 | $85,137 | $193,100 | Compare |
| Oak Grove | 12,031 | $75,506 | $195,700 | Compare |
| Powdersville | 11,321 | $88,125 | $318,600 | Compare |
| Fountain Inn | 11,307 | $72,021 | $255,400 | Compare |
| Red Bank | 10,950 | $60,348 | $176,200 | Compare |
| Parker | 12,564 | $38,607 | $121,800 | Compare |
| Boiling Springs | 12,609 | $79,798 | $230,000 | Compare |
| Gaffney | 12,612 | $41,214 | $141,100 | 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 James Island
What is the population of James Island, SC?
The population of James Island, SC is 11,738 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in James Island?
The median household income in James Island, SC is $100,176 per year.
What is the median home value in James Island?
The median home value in James Island, SC is $454,200.
What is the average rent in James Island?
The median monthly rent in James Island, SC is $1,443.
What is the unemployment rate in James Island?
The unemployment rate in James Island, SC is 1.4%.