Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hilton Head Island, SC
Considering a move to Hilton Head Island, SC? This scenic city of about 39,800 residents offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with sunny weather 64% of the year and mild winters. The median home price is $663,000, and average rents are around $1,680, reflecting its status as a popular resort destination. Hilton Head Island boasts low violent crime rates (130 per 100K), short average commutes of 20 minutes, and a highly educated population—over half hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Top-rated schools and ample healthcare facilities round out this vibrant and welcoming community.
Demographics - Hilton Head Island, SC
Demographics - Hilton Head Island, SC
Hilton Head Island is home to about 39,800 residents, with a notably mature median age of 58.4 and a population density of 1,000 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White (80.4%), with a modest mix of other ethnicities and 14.5% non-English speakers, creating a tranquil and diverse atmosphere ideal for retirees and those seeking a slower pace.
Population:
39,800
Density:
1,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.4
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
14.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
80.4%
Black:
7.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
11.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hilton Head Island, SC?
Living on Hilton Head Island comes with a higher cost of living, reflected in a median home value of $663,000 and average monthly rent of $1,680. Utility and insurance costs are moderate, and the overall cost of living index is 124.6, making it an upscale destination suited for those seeking coastal luxury.
Median House Value:
$663,000
Gross Rent:
$1,680
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$142
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,220
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$750
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
124.6
Grocery:
106.4
Housing:
166.2
Utilities:
109.1
Transportation:
98.0
Health Care:
105.0
Miscellaneous:
102.5
Crime
Is Hilton Head Island, SC a safe place to live?
Hilton Head Island enjoys a low crime rate, with only 130 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 770 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime is also below national averages, contributing to the area's reputation as a safe and secure resort community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,490
Crime Index:
1,620
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 67
Weather
What is the weather like in Hilton Head Island, SC year-round?
Residents benefit from a mild coastal climate, with winter lows around 40°F and summer highs reaching 89°F. The island sees 64% sunny days annually and receives about 51 inches of rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Winter
Min:
40°F
Max:
61°F
Spring
Min:
57°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Hilton Head Island's households enjoy a strong median income of $92,200 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%. The area boasts high educational attainment, with 54.2% holding at least a bachelor's degree, and a low unemployment rate of 2.8%, fostering a prosperous and well-educated community.
Median Income:
$41,500
Household Income:
$92,200
Family Income:
$108,000
Per Capita Income:
$61,000
Income Male:
$60,000
Income Female:
$41,000
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
14.5%
Rent:
$1,680
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
20.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.4%
Bachelors or More:
54.2%
Education
How are the schools in Hilton Head Island, SC?
Hilton Head Island offers strong educational options, including highly rated public schools like Hilton Head Island High School and several private institutions. Higher education is also accessible, with Technical College of the Lowcountry located just 11 miles away in Bluffton.
Public Schools
Name:
Hilton Head Island High School
Street:
70 Wilborn Rd
Phone:
843-689-4800
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.1
Name:
Hilton Head Island Middle School
Street:
55 Wilborn Rd
Phone:
843-689-4500
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
Hilton Head Preparatory School
Street:
8 Fox Grape Rd
Phone:
843-671-2286
Students:
400
Colleges
Name:
Technical College of the Lowcountry
City:
Bluffton
State:
SC
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Healthcare on Hilton Head Island is robust, with major hospitals like Hilton Head Hospital providing emergency and general care. There are 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% have health insurance coverage, ensuring residents have access to quality medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Hilton Head Hospital
Address:
25 Hospital Center Blvd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone:
(843) 681-6122
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Coastal Carolina Hospital
Address:
1000 Medical Center Dr, Hardeeville, SC 29927
Phone:
(843) 784-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
69.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hilton Head Island, SC?
The median home price on Hilton Head Island is $663,000, with average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,820. The housing market is stable, featuring a high owner-occupancy rate of 78.1% and a modest 5.1% home appreciation rate, making it attractive for long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$663,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,820
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
12.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
DMV services for Hilton Head Island are managed by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Bluffton. Residents can access driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential DMV services both in-person and online.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
15 Sheridan Park Circle, 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.