Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Aiken, SC
Considering a move to Aiken, SC? This friendly city of 32,000 offers affordable living, with a median home price around $221,000 and average rent of $1,100. Residents enjoy short commutes (under 20 minutes on average), a mild climate with 62% sunny days, and strong public schools. While property crime rates are above average, Aiken features accessible healthcare, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a cost of living well below the national average—making it a welcoming choice for newcomers seeking Southern charm.
Demographics - Aiken, SC
Aiken, South Carolina is a mid-sized city of about 32,000 residents, with a median age of 46 and a population density of 700 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White (67%) and Black (28%), with a small percentage of non-English speakers (6.5%). This diverse and mature population creates a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
32,025
Density:
700 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.1
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.2%
Black:
27.7%
Asian:
1.6%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Aiken, SC?
Aiken offers a cost of living that is significantly below the national average, with a cost of living index of 86.4. Housing is especially affordable, with a median home value near $221,000 and average rent at $1,100, making the city attractive to both buyers and renters. Utility and grocery costs remain reasonable, providing overall budget-friendly living.
Median House Value:
$221,000
Gross Rent:
$1,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,300
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,320
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$445
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.4
Grocery:
95.1
Housing:
71.6
Utilities:
99.4
Transportation:
88.7
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
94.2
Crime
Is Aiken, SC a safe place to live?
Aiken experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with 3,025 incidents per 100,000 residents, while violent crime is less prevalent at 316 per 100,000. Residents have about a 1 in 33 chance of being affected by property crime, so it’s wise to take standard safety precautions. Still, many find the community’s overall atmosphere friendly and secure.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
316
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,025
Crime Index:
3,341
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 316
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 33
Weather
What is the weather like in Aiken, SC year-round?
Aiken enjoys a mild Southern climate, with winter lows averaging 36°F and summer highs reaching about 92°F. The city receives around 46.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, making it a pleasant place for year-round outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, contributing to a comfortable lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households in Aiken typically earn a median income of around $61,000, while 91% of adults have at least a high school diploma. Commutes are short, averaging just under 20 minutes, and the city maintains a low unemployment rate of 4%. While the poverty rate is slightly higher at 14%, the community is well-educated and offers a neighborly feel.
Median Income:
$37,800
Household Income:
$60,900
Family Income:
$77,400
Per Capita Income:
$36,800
Income Male:
$44,500
Income Female:
$33,700
Poverty Rate:
14.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,100
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.4%
Bachelors or More:
34.8%
Education
How are the schools in Aiken, SC?
Aiken offers a range of educational opportunities, including strong public schools like Aiken High and Schofield Middle, as well as private options such as Mead Hall Episcopal School. Higher education is available locally at the University of South Carolina Aiken and nearby Aiken Technical College, serving thousands of students. This robust educational network supports families and lifelong learners alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Aiken High School
Street:
449 Rutland Dr
Phone:
803-641-2500
Students:
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.3
Name:
Schofield Middle School
Street:
224 Kershaw St NE
Phone:
803-641-2770
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.4
Private Schools
Name:
Mead Hall Episcopal School
Street:
619 Barnwell Ave NW
Phone:
803-644-1122
Students:
480
Colleges
Name:
University of South Carolina Aiken
City:
Aiken
State:
SC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,200
Name:
Aiken Technical College
City:
Graniteville
State:
SC
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Healthcare in Aiken is anchored by Aiken Regional Medical Centers, offering general and emergency services within the city. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, residents have good access to essential medical care. The area’s healthcare index of 76.8 reflects reliable, accessible services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Aiken Regional Medical Centers
Address:
302 University Pkwy, Aiken, SC 29801
Phone:
(803) 641-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.9%
Health Care Index:
76.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Aiken, SC?
Aiken’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $221,000 and owner-occupancy at 68%. Rental options remain available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,100 and a 7.5% vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year, indicating steady growth.
Median Home Price:
$221,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Aiken residents are served by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Blythewood and services easily accessible online or by phone. The DMV provides standard licensing, registration, and title services for the region. For more information, the state’s official DMV website offers convenient resources.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
10311 Wilson Blvd, Blythewood, SC 29016
Phone:
803-896-5000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.