West Columbia, SC
Population 17,723 · South Carolina
About West Columbia, SC
West Columbia is a mid-sized city in South Carolina with a population of 17,723 residents. The median household income is $54,152 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in West Columbia is 37.2 years.
Housing in West Columbia has a median home value of $186,200 and median monthly rent of $1,092. Of the 8,818 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,688 owner-occupied and 3,579 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in West Columbia is 4.1% and the poverty rate is 14.1%. 38.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.1 minutes.
How West Columbia Ranks in South Carolina
Cost of Living in West Columbia, SC
Compared to national averages, West Columbia has a median household income of $54,152 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $186,200, which is 24% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,092 is 6% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, West Columbia's income is 8% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 8% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in West Columbia, SC?
West Columbia offers affordable housing with a median home value of $186,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,092/month, and a well-educated community where 38.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,152) that falls below the national average. However, West Columbia’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Columbia has a population of 17,723 with a median age of 37.2 years. Compare West Columbia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near West Columbia
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clemson | 17,759 | $49,713 | $359,100 | Compare |
| Berea | 16,642 | $48,104 | $187,200 | Compare |
| Red Hill | 16,480 | $62,132 | $223,900 | Compare |
| Five Forks | 19,093 | $140,668 | $424,600 | Compare |
| Ladson | 16,261 | $83,031 | $222,100 | Compare |
| North Myrtle Beach | 19,343 | $72,111 | $371,900 | Compare |
| Seven Oaks | 15,990 | $64,003 | $195,900 | Compare |
| Dentsville | 15,396 | $44,029 | $154,600 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about West Columbia
What is the population of West Columbia, SC?
The population of West Columbia, SC is 17,723 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in West Columbia?
The median household income in West Columbia, SC is $54,152 per year.
What is the median home value in West Columbia?
The median home value in West Columbia, SC is $186,200.
What is the average rent in West Columbia?
The median monthly rent in West Columbia, SC is $1,092.
What is the unemployment rate in West Columbia?
The unemployment rate in West Columbia, SC is 4.1%.