Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Beaufort, SC
Considering a move to Beaufort, SC? This historic coastal city has a population of nearly 14,000 and offers a relaxed lifestyle with a median home price of $346,000 and average rents around $1,380. Residents enjoy mild winters, 63% sunny days, and a commute averaging just 21 minutes. While property crime is higher than the national average, Beaufort boasts a vibrant community, access to quality schools and healthcare, and charming Lowcountry scenery—perfect for those seeking laid-back Southern living with a touch of seaside charm.
Demographics - Beaufort, SC
Demographics - Beaufort, SC
Beaufort is home to nearly 14,000 residents, with a median age of 36 and a population density of 950 people per square mile. The city features a diverse community, with about two-thirds identifying as White and one-quarter as Black, and roughly 7% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. The gender balance leans slightly toward females, offering a welcoming and balanced community for newcomers.
Population:
13,922
Density:
950 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.8%
Black:
25.9%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Beaufort, SC?
The cost of living in Beaufort is close to the national average, with a median home value of $346,000 and average gross rent around $1,380 per month. Utility and transportation costs are moderate, and state income taxes range from 0% to 7%. Residents can expect affordable housing compared to many other coastal cities, making Beaufort an accessible choice for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$346,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,750
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.6
Grocery:
98.2
Housing:
94.0
Utilities:
102.5
Transportation:
96.0
Health Care:
103.1
Miscellaneous:
100.8
Crime
Is Beaufort, SC a safe place to live?
Beaufort experiences a property crime rate higher than the national average, with about 2,010 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 50 chance annually. Violent crime is less common, with a rate of 324 per 100,000 people, resulting in a 1 in 308 chance of being affected. While safety precautions are wise, many residents find the city’s overall atmosphere to be friendly and community-oriented.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
324
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,334
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 308
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Beaufort, SC year-round?
Beaufort enjoys a mild coastal climate, featuring warm summers with highs near 91°F and pleasant winters with lows around 39°F. The city receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 63% of the year. This inviting weather supports an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents in Beaufort have a median household income of $61,170, with a poverty rate of 13.1% and an unemployment rate of just under 4%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 30% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average commute is a manageable 21 minutes, contributing to a laid-back and connected community feel.
Median Income:
$35,810
Household Income:
$61,170
Family Income:
$74,400
Per Capita Income:
$30,210
Income Male:
$42,300
Income Female:
$33,200
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
7.4%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
20.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
28.4%
Education
How are the schools in Beaufort, SC?
Beaufort provides strong educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools such as Beaufort High and Mossy Oaks Elementary, and private options like Beaufort Academy. Higher education is accessible with the University of South Carolina Beaufort and Technical College of the Lowcountry both located nearby. The city’s educational attainment is high, with over 91% of residents holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Beaufort High School
Street:
84 Sea Island Pkwy
Phone:
843-322-2000
Students:
1,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Mossy Oaks Elementary School
Street:
2510 Mossy Oaks Rd
Phone:
843-322-2900
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Private Schools
Name:
Beaufort Academy
Street:
240 Sams Point Rd
Phone:
843-524-3393
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
University of South Carolina Beaufort
City:
Beaufort
State:
SC
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
2,100
Name:
Technical College of the Lowcountry
City:
Beaufort
State:
SC
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Beaufort offers quality healthcare, anchored by Beaufort Memorial Hospital, a full-service facility with emergency services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, healthcare access is reliable for most. The city’s healthcare index reflects generally favorable outcomes and resources for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Beaufort Memorial Hospital
Address:
955 Ribaut Rd, Beaufort, SC 29902
Phone:
(843) 522-5200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Beaufort, SC?
The Beaufort housing market is relatively stable, with a median home price of $346,000 and a one-year appreciation rate of 4.7%. Homeownership is common, with 54% of residents owning their homes and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,380. The area has a low foreclosure rate, making it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$346,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Driver services in Beaufort are managed by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Bluffton. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services both in-person and online. For questions or appointments, the DMV can be reached at 1-803-896-5000 or through their official website.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
15 Sheridan Park Cir, Bluffton, SC 29910
Phone:
1-803-896-5000
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.