Olar, SC
Population 188 · South Carolina
About Olar, SC
Olar is a small community located in South Carolina with a population of 188 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,607 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Olar features a median home value of $80,000, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Olar one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,125, 3% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 113 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (46 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (19 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Olar shows an unemployment rate of 6.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Olar have an average one-way commute time of 31.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.3% of Olar 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 0.0% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Olar, SC
Compared to national averages, Olar has a median household income of $36,607 (51% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $80,000, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,125 is 3% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Olar's income is 38% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 60% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Olar, SC?
Olar offers affordable housing with a median home value of $80,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,125/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,607) that falls below the national average. However, Olar’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Olar has a population of 188 with a median age of 37.6 years. Compare Olar with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
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Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 Olar
What is the population of Olar, SC?
The population of Olar, SC is 188 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 Olar?
The median household income in Olar, SC is $36,607 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Olar?
The median home value in Olar, SC is $80,000, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Olar?
The median monthly rent in Olar, SC is $1,125, which is 3% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Olar?
The unemployment rate in Olar, SC is 6.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Olar, SC a good place to live?
Olar offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 188 and a median age of 37.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Olar, SC?
15.3% of residents in Olar 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 Olar?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Olar, SC: median home value is $80,000 (67% below national), median rent is $1,125/month, and median household income is $36,607. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Olar?
The poverty rate in Olar, SC is 14.9%, 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 Olar, SC?
Olar's population is 0.0% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 38.8% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.