Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dataw Island, SC
Considering a move to Dataw Island, SC? This gated Lowcountry community of around 1,000 residents is known for its tranquil, upscale lifestyle and pristine natural setting. Homes here average $625,000, with a high owner-occupancy rate and very low crime—just 45 violent crimes per 100K. Commutes average just 19 minutes, and residents enjoy mild winters, balmy summers, and 64% sunny days. With excellent access to healthcare, high educational attainment, and scenic coastal amenities, Dataw Island offers a safe and welcoming environment for those seeking a relaxed, active lifestyle.
Demographics - Dataw Island, SC
Demographics - Dataw Island, SC
Dataw Island is a close-knit community of about 1,000 residents, characterized by a predominantly older population with a median age of 68 and a high percentage of retirees. The area is largely White (95%), with a balanced gender ratio and very few non-English speakers, fostering a peaceful and welcoming environment for newcomers. Low population density enhances the private, relaxed atmosphere of this gated island.
Population:
1,000
Density:
500 per sq mi
Median Age:
68.0
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
3.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
1.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dataw Island, SC?
Living on Dataw Island offers an upscale lifestyle, with a median home value of $625,000 and a cost of living index slightly above the national average. Residents can expect moderate utility costs and state taxes ranging from 0% to 7%. While housing and utilities are higher than average, these costs reflect the island's exclusivity and amenities.
Median House Value:
$625,000
Gross Rent:
$2,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$850
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
108
Grocery:
104
Housing:
115
Utilities:
110
Transportation:
102
Health Care:
106
Miscellaneous:
100
Crime
Is Dataw Island, SC a safe place to live?
Dataw Island is notably safe, with just 45 violent crimes and 220 property crimes per 100,000 residents, offering peace of mind in this gated community. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are extremely low, at 1 in 2,200. Residents enjoy a secure environment rarely found in more populated areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
45
Property Crimes Per 100k:
220
Crime Index:
265
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,200
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 450
Weather
What is the weather like in Dataw Island, SC year-round?
Dataw Island enjoys a mild subtropical climate, with winter lows around 40°F and summer highs near 90°F. The area experiences about 64% sunny days each year and receives an average of 49 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Residents benefit from comfortable seasons and plentiful sunshine.

Winter
Min:
40°F
Max:
61°F

Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
77°F

Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
90°F

Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Residents of Dataw Island enjoy a high median household income of $110,000 and an extremely low poverty rate of just 2%. The community is well-educated, with 68% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and unemployment is low at 2.7%. Most people commute roughly 19 minutes, and public transport usage is almost nonexistent, reflecting the suburban, independent lifestyle.
Median Income:
$47,000
Household Income:
$110,000
Family Income:
$125,000
Per Capita Income:
$65,000
Income Male:
$75,000
Income Female:
$53,000
Poverty Rate:
2.0%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$2,250
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
19 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
99.0%
Bachelors or More:
68.0%
Education
How are the schools in Dataw Island, SC?
Families on Dataw Island have access to quality education options, including Coosa Elementary and Beaufort Academy, both located nearby. Class sizes are small, and the community boasts high educational attainment, with nearly all adults holding a high school diploma and 68% with bachelor’s degrees or higher. Higher education is also accessible, with the University of South Carolina Beaufort just 19 miles away.

Public Schools
Name:
Coosa Elementary School
Street:
45 Middle Rd, Beaufort, SC 29907
Phone:
843-322-6100
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1

Private Schools
Name:
Beaufort Academy
Street:
240 Sams Point Rd, Beaufort, SC 29907
Phone:
843-524-3393
Students:
320

Colleges
Name:
University of South Carolina Beaufort
City:
Beaufort
State:
SC
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
2,100
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is excellent, with Beaufort Memorial Hospital nearby and 97.5% of residents covered by health insurance. The area boasts a high physician-to-resident ratio, ensuring convenient medical care for all. Residents benefit from reliable emergency services and a solid healthcare infrastructure.

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:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.5%
Health Care Index:
77
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dataw Island, SC?
The Dataw Island housing market is strong, with a median home price of $625,000 and 95% owner occupancy. Homes have appreciated by 7.1% over the past year, and the rental market is limited but stable, with average two-bedroom rents at $2,250. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates highlight the area’s desirability and investment stability.
Median Home Price:
$625,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
95%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Dataw Island residents are served by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles in nearby Beaufort, making vehicle registration and licensing convenient. The local DMV offers comprehensive services for the region and can be reached easily both in person and online. This efficient access helps residents manage transportation needs smoothly.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2127 Boundary St, Beaufort, SC 29902
Phone:
1-843-379-8822
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.