Johnston, SC
Population 2,518 · South Carolina
About Johnston, SC
Johnston is a small town located in South Carolina with a population of 2,518 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $34,957 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.7 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 Johnston features a median home value of $100,400, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Johnston one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $803, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,189 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (626 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (437 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Johnston shows an unemployment rate of 7.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Johnston have an average one-way commute time of 24.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.8% of Johnston residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 3.3% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Johnston, SC
Compared to national averages, Johnston has a median household income of $34,957 (53% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $100,400, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $803 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Johnston's income is 40% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 50% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Johnston, SC?
Johnston offers affordable housing with a median home value of $100,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $803/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($34,957) that falls below the national average. However, Johnston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Johnston has a population of 2,518 with a median age of 45.7 years. Compare Johnston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Johnston
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Andrews | 2,558 | $53,611 | $111,400 | Compare |
| Pageland | 2,476 | $40,236 | $168,300 | Compare |
| Landrum | 2,564 | $41,161 | $194,700 | Compare |
| Loris | 2,570 | $36,158 | $195,600 | Compare |
| McColl | 2,453 | $33,925 | $47,100 | Compare |
| Ravenel | 2,594 | $72,365 | $230,100 | Compare |
| Allendale | 2,595 | $25,250 | $65,300 | Compare |
| Varnville | 2,433 | $52,800 | $105,500 | 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 Johnston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Johnston
What is the population of Johnston, SC?
The population of Johnston, SC is 2,518 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in Johnston?
The median household income in Johnston, SC is $34,957 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Johnston?
The median home value in Johnston, SC is $100,400, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Johnston?
The median monthly rent in Johnston, SC is $803, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Johnston?
The unemployment rate in Johnston, SC is 7.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Johnston, SC a good place to live?
Johnston offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,518 and a median age of 45.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Johnston, SC?
13.8% of residents in Johnston 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 Johnston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Johnston, SC: median home value is $100,400 (59% below national), median rent is $803/month, and median household income is $34,957. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Johnston?
The poverty rate in Johnston, SC is 27.1%, 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 Johnston, SC?
Johnston's population is 3.3% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 65.9% two or more races. 3.5% of residents are foreign-born.