Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kirkwood, SC
Considering a move to Kirkwood, SC? This community of around 19,800 offers affordable living, with median home prices at $106,000 and typical 2-bedroom rents near $900. Residents enjoy a mild climate with 65% sunny days, and average commute times under 25 minutes. While property and violent crime rates are higher than average, Kirkwood features accessible healthcare, nearby colleges, and a welcoming, close-knit feel—making it a practical choice for those seeking value and a relaxed pace.
Demographics - Kirkwood, SC
Demographics - Kirkwood, SC
Kirkwood, SC is home to about 19,800 residents, with a median age of 38.2 and a community that is predominantly Black (58%) and White (39%), reflecting a diverse local culture. The city has a modest population density and a small percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its approachable, small-city atmosphere.
Population:
19,800
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
38.5%
Black:
58.2%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kirkwood, SC?
Kirkwood offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $106,000 and average rent around $900 for a two-bedroom apartment. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$106,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.5
Grocery:
95.1
Housing:
54.4
Utilities:
94.2
Transportation:
78.9
Health Care:
96.0
Miscellaneous:
97.3
Crime
Is Kirkwood, SC a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Kirkwood are higher than average, with residents facing a 1 in 153 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 29 chance of property crime annually. It's important for newcomers to consider local crime prevention resources and neighborhood safety when planning a move.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
652
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,420
Crime Index:
4,072
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 153
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Kirkwood, SC year-round?
Kirkwood enjoys a mild climate, featuring warm summers with highs in the low 90s and mild winters with lows around 36°F. The area receives ample sunshine on about 65% of days and experiences moderate annual rainfall, offering residents a pleasant year-round outdoor environment.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
76°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
65%
Neighbors
The typical Kirkwood household earns around $45,500, though the area has a higher poverty rate of 21%. Most adults have at least a high school education, and commutes average just under 24 minutes—offering convenience for working residents.
Median Income:
$32,900
Household Income:
$45,500
Family Income:
$54,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$33,600
Income Female:
$29,500
Poverty Rate:
21.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
23.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.1%
Bachelors or More:
15.8%
Education
How are the schools in Kirkwood, SC?
Local families benefit from a range of educational options, including reputable public schools like Millwood Elementary and nearby higher education institutions such as the University of South Carolina Sumter. Educational attainment is solid, with most adults having completed high school and a growing number pursuing college degrees.
Public Schools
Name:
Millwood Elementary School
Street:
24 Pinewood Rd
Phone:
803-775-0648
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Bates Middle School
Street:
715 Estate St
Phone:
803-775-0711
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Wilson Hall
Street:
520 Wilson Hall Rd
Phone:
803-469-8536
Students:
800
Colleges
Name:
University of South Carolina Sumter
City:
Sumter
State:
SC
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
1,400
Name:
Central Carolina Technical College
City:
Sumter
State:
SC
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Residents have access to comprehensive healthcare, including Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital nearby, and a physician availability rate of 2.1 per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is strong at 84.5%, ensuring most locals can find the care they need.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital
Address:
129 N Washington St, Sumter, SC 29150
Phone:
(803) 774-9000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
84.5%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kirkwood, SC?
The housing market in Kirkwood is notably affordable, with a median home price of $106,000 and an owner-occupied rate exceeding 63%. Steady appreciation and a relatively high rental vacancy rate make it accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$106,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.1%
DMV Information
Kirkwood residents are served by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Blythewood, which offers a full range of licensing and vehicle services both in-person and online for added convenience.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
10311 Wilson Blvd, Blythewood, SC 29016
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.