Ward, SC
Population 284 · South Carolina
About Ward, SC
Ward is a small community located in South Carolina with a population of 284 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,625 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.6 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 Ward features a median home value of $115,600, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ward one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $795, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 89 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (37 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (44 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 Ward 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 35.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ward have an average one-way commute time of 39.4 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
10.1% of Ward 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 7.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 7.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ward, SC
Compared to national averages, Ward has a median household income of $55,625 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $115,600, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $795 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, Ward's income is 5% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 43% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in Ward, SC?
Ward offers affordable housing with a median home value of $115,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $795/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.8%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,625) that falls below the national average. However, Ward’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ward has a population of 284 with a median age of 35.6 years. Compare Ward with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Ward
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Beach | 283 | $40,000 | $342,100 | Compare |
| Buford | 283 | $77,639 | $188,800 | Compare |
| Snelling | 283 | $41,042 | $63,900 | Compare |
| Norway | 279 | $47,632 | $126,700 | Compare |
| Reevesville | 295 | $72,500 | $0 | Compare |
| Russellville | 273 | $0 | $80,000 | Compare |
| Daviston | 263 | $0 | $107,700 | Compare |
| Harbor Island | 310 | $100,250 | $284,500 | 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 Ward With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Ward
What is the population of Ward, SC?
The population of Ward, SC is 284 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 Ward?
The median household income in Ward, SC is $55,625 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ward?
The median home value in Ward, SC is $115,600, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Ward?
The median monthly rent in Ward, SC is $795, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ward?
The unemployment rate in Ward, 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 Ward, SC a good place to live?
Ward offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 284 and a median age of 35.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Ward, SC?
10.1% of residents in Ward 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 Ward?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ward, SC: median home value is $115,600 (53% below national), median rent is $795/month, and median household income is $55,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ward?
The poverty rate in Ward, SC is 35.2%, 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 Ward, SC?
Ward's population is 7.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 55.3% two or more races. 7.0% of residents are foreign-born.