Ruby, SC
Population 244 · South Carolina
About Ruby, SC
Ruby is a small community located in South Carolina with a population of 244 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,167 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44 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 Ruby features a median home value of $108,700, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ruby one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $750, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 172 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (100 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (18 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ruby shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ruby have an average one-way commute time of 29.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.6% of Ruby 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 7.4% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ruby, SC
Compared to national averages, Ruby has a median household income of $49,167 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $108,700, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $750 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Ruby's income is 16% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 46% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Ruby, SC?
Ruby offers affordable housing with a median home value of $108,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $750/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,167) that falls below the national average. However, Ruby’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ruby has a population of 244 with a median age of 44 years. Compare Ruby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Ruby
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
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 Ruby
What is the population of Ruby, SC?
The population of Ruby, SC is 244 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 Ruby?
The median household income in Ruby, SC is $49,167 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ruby?
The median home value in Ruby, SC is $108,700, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ruby?
The median monthly rent in Ruby, SC is $750, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ruby?
The unemployment rate in Ruby, SC is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Ruby, SC a good place to live?
Ruby offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 244 and a median age of 44, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ruby, SC?
15.6% of residents in Ruby 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 Ruby?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ruby, SC: median home value is $108,700 (56% below national), median rent is $750/month, and median household income is $49,167. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ruby?
The poverty rate in Ruby, SC is 15.6%, 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 Ruby, SC?
Ruby's population is 7.4% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 11.9% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.