Union, SC
Population 8,047 · South Carolina
About Union, SC
Union is a small town located in South Carolina with a population of 8,047 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $34,112 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 46.8 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 Union features a median home value of $103,400, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Union one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $789, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,458 total housing units, 51% are owner-occupied (2,026 units) and 49% are renter-occupied (1,961 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Union shows an unemployment rate of 11.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Union have an average one-way commute time of 26.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.8% of Union 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, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 3.3% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Union, SC
Compared to national averages, Union has a median household income of $34,112 (55% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $103,400, which is 58% below the national median. Monthly rent at $789 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Union's income is 42% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 49% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Union, SC?
Union offers affordable housing with a median home value of $103,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $789/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($34,112) that falls below the national average. However, Union’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Union has a population of 8,047 with a median age of 46.8 years. Compare Union with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Union
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camden | 8,025 | $53,289 | $241,300 | Compare |
| Travelers Rest | 8,137 | $49,655 | $281,400 | Compare |
| Sans Souci | 8,199 | $46,276 | $199,100 | Compare |
| White Knoll | 7,865 | $79,531 | $232,000 | Compare |
| Clinton | 7,624 | $40,372 | $154,700 | Compare |
| Georgetown | 8,511 | $57,704 | $158,600 | Compare |
| Sangaree | 8,517 | $77,939 | $231,900 | Compare |
| Forestbrook | 7,450 | $77,791 | $298,800 | 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 Union With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Union
What is the population of Union, SC?
The population of Union, SC is 8,047 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 Union?
The median household income in Union, SC is $34,112 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Union?
The median home value in Union, SC is $103,400, which is 58% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Union?
The median monthly rent in Union, SC is $789, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Union?
The unemployment rate in Union, SC is 11.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Union, SC a good place to live?
Union offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,047 and a median age of 46.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Union, SC?
14.8% of residents in Union 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 Union?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Union, SC: median home value is $103,400 (58% below national), median rent is $789/month, and median household income is $34,112. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Union?
The poverty rate in Union, SC is 26.4%, 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 Union, SC?
Union's population is 0.0% White, 1.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 3.3% Asian, and 44.8% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.