Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Barnwell, SC
Considering a move to Barnwell, SC? This friendly city of 4,427 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $95,000 and average rents of $800. Commute times average just under 25 minutes, and the area enjoys a warm climate with 62% sunny days yearly. While property crime rates are higher than average, Barnwell provides easy access to local schools and healthcare, making it a budget-friendly option for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Barnwell, SC
Demographics - Barnwell, SC
Barnwell, SC has a population of about 4,400, with a majority Black community and a median age of 39. The city features a moderate population density and a slightly higher proportion of women, reflecting a diverse and established small-town atmosphere.
Population:
4,427
Density:
1,095 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
38.0%
Black:
59.5%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Barnwell, SC?
Barnwell offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $95,000 and average rents at $800 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$95,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,360
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$360
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.3
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
44.0
Utilities:
109.0
Transportation:
83.0
Health Care:
100.0
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Barnwell, SC a safe place to live?
Barnwell experiences higher-than-average property crime, with a 1 in 29 chance of being affected annually, while violent crime occurs less frequently at about 1 in 191. Residents should take standard safety precautions, especially regarding property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
523
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,420
Crime Index:
3,943
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 191
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Barnwell, SC year-round?
The city enjoys a mild climate, featuring warm summers with highs reaching 92°F and winters that rarely dip below 36°F. With 62% sunny days and about 46.5 inches of annual rainfall, outdoor activities are accessible most of the year.

Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
59°F

Spring
Min:
53°F
Max:
78°F

Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Barnwell’s community has a median household income of $37,200, and about 27% of residents live below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just under 25 minutes, offering a relaxed small-town lifestyle.
Median Income:
$29,500
Household Income:
$37,200
Family Income:
$46,900
Per Capita Income:
$19,400
Income Male:
$37,400
Income Female:
$28,200
Poverty Rate:
27.3%
Non English Speakers:
3.6%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
24.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
83.9%
Bachelors or More:
13.5%
Education
How are the schools in Barnwell, SC?
Barnwell offers public and private schooling options, with student-teacher ratios around 15–17 in local schools. Nearby community and technical colleges are accessible within a short drive, making educational resources convenient for families and students.

Public Schools
Name:
Barnwell Elementary School
Street:
10524 Marlboro Ave
Phone:
803-541-1320
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Barnwell High School
Street:
474 Jackson St
Phone:
803-541-1390
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2

Private Schools
Name:
Jefferson Davis Academy
Street:
5064 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Phone:
803-284-3313
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Denmark Technical College
City:
Denmark
State:
SC
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
USC Salkehatchie
City:
Allendale
State:
SC
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Healthcare in Barnwell is supported by Barnwell County Hospital, which provides general and emergency services. About 82% of residents have health insurance, and the area has a modest availability of physicians relative to the population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Barnwell County Hospital
Address:
811 Reynolds Rd, Barnwell, SC 29812
Phone:
(803) 541-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
82.4%
Health Care Index:
68.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Barnwell, SC?
Barnwell’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $95,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 59%. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, and rental options remain available with a vacancy rate just over 10%.
Median Home Price:
$95,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles at 1286 Main Street. Residents can handle all licensing and vehicle registration needs locally or online through the state DMV website.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1286 Main Street, Barnwell, SC 29812
Phone:
1-803-541-1138
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.