West Pelzer, SC
Population 1,276 · South Carolina
About West Pelzer, SC
West Pelzer is a small town located in South Carolina with a population of 1,276 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,125 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.5 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 West Pelzer features a median home value of $125,700, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Pelzer one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $846, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 482 total housing units, 52% are owner-occupied (237 units) and 48% are renter-occupied (216 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Pelzer shows an unemployment rate of 10.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Pelzer have an average one-way commute time of 24.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.3% of West Pelzer 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 3.0% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 2.2% Asian residents, with 12.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Pelzer, SC
Compared to national averages, West Pelzer has a median household income of $53,125 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,700, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $846 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Carolina, West Pelzer's income is 10% below the state average of $58,738, and home values are 38% below the state median of $202,187.
Why Live in West Pelzer, SC?
West Pelzer offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $846/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,125) that falls below the national average. However, West Pelzer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Pelzer has a population of 1,276 with a median age of 33.5 years. Compare West Pelzer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Carolina.
Similar Cities Near West Pelzer
Cities in South Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edmund | 1,274 | $35,750 | $100,200 | Compare |
| Meggett | 1,274 | $96,032 | $594,800 | Compare |
| Latta | 1,301 | $45,500 | $106,000 | Compare |
| Olympia | 1,301 | $0 | $189,200 | Compare |
| Whitmire | 1,241 | $32,188 | $51,900 | Compare |
| Buffalo | 1,232 | $21,831 | $44,400 | Compare |
| Catawba | 1,225 | $55,385 | $198,100 | Compare |
| Lake Secession | 1,209 | $46,933 | $335,500 | 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 West Pelzer With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Pelzer
What is the population of West Pelzer, SC?
The population of West Pelzer, SC is 1,276 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 West Pelzer?
The median household income in West Pelzer, SC is $53,125 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Pelzer?
The median home value in West Pelzer, SC is $125,700, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Pelzer?
The median monthly rent in West Pelzer, SC is $846, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Pelzer?
The unemployment rate in West Pelzer, SC is 10.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Pelzer, SC a good place to live?
West Pelzer offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,276 and a median age of 33.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is West Pelzer, SC?
18.3% of residents in West Pelzer 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 West Pelzer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Pelzer, SC: median home value is $125,700 (49% below national), median rent is $846/month, and median household income is $53,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Pelzer?
The poverty rate in West Pelzer, SC is 16.1%, 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 West Pelzer, SC?
West Pelzer's population is 3.0% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, and 1.1% two or more races. 12.2% of residents are foreign-born.