Ladson, SC
Population 16,261 · South Carolina
About Ladson, SC
Ladson is a mid-sized city located in South Carolina with a population of 16,261 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,031 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ladson features a median home value of $222,100, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Ladson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,517, 30% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 6,253 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (4,592 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (1,191 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ladson shows an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Ladson have an average one-way commute time of 31.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.6% of Ladson 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 8.0% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 5.5% Asian residents, with 12.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Ladson Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in Ladson, SC
Compared to national averages, Ladson has a median household income of $83,031 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $222,100, which is 9% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,517 is 30% above the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Ladson's income is 41% above the state average of $58,738, and home values are 10% above the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Ladson, SC?
Ladson offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,031, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $222,100, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 12.1%, better than the national average.
Ladson has a population of 16,261 with a median age of 31.8 years. Compare Ladson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Ladson
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Hill | 16,480 | $62,132 | $223,900 | Compare |
| Seven Oaks | 15,990 | $64,003 | $195,900 | Compare |
| Berea | 16,642 | $48,104 | $187,200 | Compare |
| Dentsville | 15,396 | $44,029 | $154,600 | Compare |
| Lake Wylie | 15,177 | $112,113 | $464,200 | Compare |
| Gantt | 15,057 | $47,265 | $156,200 | Compare |
| Port Royal | 15,047 | $70,330 | $298,000 | Compare |
| West Columbia | 17,723 | $54,152 | $186,200 | 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 Ladson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ladson
What is the population of Ladson, SC?
The population of Ladson, SC is 16,261 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in Ladson?
The median household income in Ladson, SC is $83,031 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ladson?
The median home value in Ladson, SC is $222,100, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ladson?
The median monthly rent in Ladson, SC is $1,517, which is 30% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ladson?
The unemployment rate in Ladson, SC is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ladson, SC a good place to live?
Ladson offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 16,261 and a median age of 31.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Ladson, SC?
19.6% of residents in Ladson 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 Ladson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ladson, SC: median home value is $222,100 (9% below national), median rent is $1,517/month, and median household income is $83,031. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ladson?
The poverty rate in Ladson, SC is 12.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Ladson, SC?
Ladson's population is 8.0% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 5.5% Asian, and 31.1% two or more races. 12.1% of residents are foreign-born.