North Charleston, SC
Population 117,460 · South Carolina
About North Charleston, SC
North Charleston is a major city located in South Carolina with a population of 117,460 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $62,789 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.3 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 North Charleston features a median home value of $267,700, which is 9% above the national median of $244,900. This positions North Charleston in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,364, 17% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 53,133 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (23,058 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (24,470 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in North Charleston shows an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 15.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in North Charleston have an average one-way commute time of 24.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
28.0% of North Charleston 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 7.1% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 4.5% Asian residents, with 12.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How North Charleston Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in North Charleston, SC
Compared to national averages, North Charleston has a median household income of $62,789 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $267,700, which is 9% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,364 is 17% above the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, North Charleston's income is 7% above the state average of $58,738, and home values are 32% above the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in North Charleston, SC?
North Charleston offers short commute times averaging just 24.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,789) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, North Charleston provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
North Charleston has a population of 117,460 with a median age of 34.3 years. Compare North Charleston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near North Charleston
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | 138,019 | $55,653 | $243,500 | Compare |
| Mount Pleasant | 92,662 | $121,364 | $667,100 | Compare |
| Charleston | 152,014 | $90,038 | $469,100 | Compare |
| Rock Hill | 74,769 | $64,770 | $267,400 | Compare |
| Greenville | 71,755 | $68,460 | $453,300 | Compare |
| Summerville | 51,262 | $78,621 | $295,700 | Compare |
| Goose Creek | 46,964 | $87,437 | $279,500 | Compare |
| Sumter | 43,065 | $53,071 | $188,400 | 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.
Compare North Charleston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about North Charleston
What is the population of North Charleston, SC?
The population of North Charleston, SC is 117,460 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in South Carolina.
What is the median household income in North Charleston?
The median household income in North Charleston, SC is $62,789 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in North Charleston?
The median home value in North Charleston, SC is $267,700, which is 9% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in North Charleston?
The median monthly rent in North Charleston, SC is $1,364, which is 17% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in North Charleston?
The unemployment rate in North Charleston, SC is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is North Charleston, SC a good place to live?
North Charleston offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 117,460 and a median age of 34.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is North Charleston, SC?
28.0% of residents in North Charleston 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 North Charleston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for North Charleston, SC: median home value is $267,700 (9% above national), median rent is $1,364/month, and median household income is $62,789. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in North Charleston?
The poverty rate in North Charleston, SC is 15.5%, 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 North Charleston, SC?
North Charleston's population is 7.1% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 4.5% Asian, and 41.6% two or more races. 12.2% of residents are foreign-born.