Utica, SC
Population 1,529 · South Carolina
About Utica, SC
Utica is a small town located in South Carolina with a population of 1,529 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.8 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 Utica features a median home value of $135,300, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Utica one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,116, 4% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 883 total housing units, 45% are owner-occupied (322 units) and 55% are renter-occupied (400 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 Utica shows an unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 17.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Utica have an average one-way commute time of 26.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.1% of Utica 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 3.2% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Utica, SC
Compared to national averages, Utica has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $135,300, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,116 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Utica's income is 100% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 33% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Utica, SC?
Utica offers affordable housing with a median home value of $135,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,116/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, Utica’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Utica has a population of 1,529 with a median age of 33.8 years. Compare Utica with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Utica
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneau Beach | 1,543 | $57,561 | $227,000 | Compare |
| Cane Savannah | 1,497 | $0 | $162,500 | Compare |
| Chesterfield | 1,497 | $48,167 | $161,000 | Compare |
| Pelzer | 1,570 | $54,886 | $170,400 | Compare |
| Awendaw | 1,574 | $70,781 | $387,500 | Compare |
| Wedgefield | 1,480 | $41,662 | $50,500 | Compare |
| Ridgeville | 1,591 | $56,134 | $183,500 | Compare |
| St. Stephen | 1,460 | $59,688 | $131,400 | 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 Utica With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Utica
What is the population of Utica, SC?
The population of Utica, SC is 1,529 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 Utica?
The median household income in Utica, SC is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Utica?
The median home value in Utica, SC is $135,300, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Utica?
The median monthly rent in Utica, SC is $1,116, which is 4% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Utica?
The unemployment rate in Utica, SC is 2.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Utica, SC a good place to live?
Utica offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,529 and a median age of 33.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Utica, SC?
10.1% of residents in Utica 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 Utica?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Utica, SC: median home value is $135,300 (45% below national), median rent is $1,116/month, and median household income is $0. The home-value-to-income ratio is Infinityx, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Utica?
The poverty rate in Utica, SC is 17.2%, 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 Utica, SC?
Utica's population is 3.2% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 58.0% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.