Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake City, SC
Considering a move to Lake City, SC? With a population of just over 5,600, Lake City offers a small-town feel and affordable living, with median home prices around $93,000 and average rents of $820. The city enjoys a mild climate with 64% sunny days each year, but has higher-than-average crime rates compared to national norms. Commute times are manageable at about 24 minutes, and local schools and a community hospital serve residents. Explore the cost-effective lifestyle and welcoming Southern charm of Lake City below.
Demographics - Lake City, SC
Demographics - Lake City, SC
Lake City, home to about 5,620 residents, is a close-knit community with a majority Black population and a median age of just over 41 years. The area has a moderate population density, and most residents speak English, contributing to a friendly and familiar small-town atmosphere.
Population:
5,620
Density:
1,040 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
22.1%
Black:
73.0%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake City, SC?
Living in Lake City is notably affordable, with a median home value of $93,000 and average rent at $820 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$93,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.3
Grocery:
95.4
Housing:
46.2
Utilities:
106.2
Transportation:
87.3
Health Care:
103.8
Miscellaneous:
94.1
Crime
Is Lake City, SC a safe place to live?
Lake City experiences higher crime rates than many U.S. cities, with a 1 in 161 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 24 chance for property crime. While the community is welcoming, new residents should stay informed about local safety initiatives and neighborhood watch programs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
621
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,220
Crime Index:
4,841
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 161
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 24
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake City, SC year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild Southern climate with warm summers, cool winters, and around 64% sunny days each year. The city receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually, supporting lush greenery and outdoor recreation.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Lake City’s neighbors have a median household income of just under $32,000 and a high school graduation rate above 80%. The area has a high poverty rate and limited public transportation use, but commute times remain manageable at around 24 minutes.
Median Income:
$21,400
Household Income:
$31,900
Family Income:
$38,800
Per Capita Income:
$17,900
Income Male:
$30,100
Income Female:
$25,300
Poverty Rate:
32.9%
Non English Speakers:
3.0%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
8.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.4%
Bachelors or More:
11.1%
Education
How are the schools in Lake City, SC?
Lake City offers several public and private school options, including Lake City High School and Carolina Academy, providing quality education with favorable student-teacher ratios. Residents also have access to higher education at Florence-Darlington Technical College, located about 22 miles away.
Public Schools
Name:
Lake City High School
Street:
652 N Matthews Rd
Phone:
843-374-8652
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
J. Paul Truluck Creative Arts and Science Magnet School
Street:
319 Carter Rd
Phone:
843-374-3511
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Private Schools
Name:
Carolina Academy
Street:
2204 S Wise Dr
Phone:
843-374-8690
Students:
385
Colleges
Name:
Florence-Darlington Technical College
City:
Florence
State:
SC
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
5,700
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met locally by Lake City Community Hospital, which offers general and emergency services. Most residents have health insurance, and the city has an average number of physicians per capita, ensuring basic medical care is accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lake City Community Hospital
Address:
258 N Ron McNair Blvd, Lake City, SC 29560
Phone:
(843) 374-2036
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.6%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake City, SC?
Lake City’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $93,000 and owner-occupancy just above 50%. Rental vacancies are moderate, and home values have seen modest appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$93,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents handle driver and vehicle services through the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office in Kingstree. Online resources and friendly staff make routine DMV tasks straightforward.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
310 E Main St, Kingstree, SC 29556
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.