Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Seneca, SC
Thinking about moving to Seneca, SC? With a welcoming population of 8,500, Seneca offers affordable living, with median home prices around $195,000 and average rents at $950. Residents enjoy a mild climate with 61% sunny days, short commutes averaging 20.5 minutes, and local access to quality healthcare. While property crime rates are above the national average, Seneca boasts a friendly, small-town atmosphere, convenient access to outdoor recreation, and proximity to strong educational opportunities through local schools and nearby Clemson University.
Demographics - Seneca, SC
Demographics - Seneca, SC
Seneca, SC is home to approximately 8,500 residents, with a median age of 41.5, reflecting a mature and settled community. The city features a diverse population, predominantly White (75.2%) with notable Black and minority communities, and about 5.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to its small-town, neighborly feel.
Population:
8,500
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.5
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
75.2%
Black:
17.8%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
5.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Seneca, SC?
Living in Seneca is affordable, with a median home value of $195,000 and average rents around $950 per month, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and renters. The cost of living index sits at 84.2, well below the national average, so daily expenses like groceries, transportation, and health care are generally lower. Utilities and state taxes are reasonable, helping residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without high costs.
Median House Value:
$195,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,380
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,240
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.2
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
73.0
Utilities:
103.0
Transportation:
84.0
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Seneca, SC a safe place to live?
Seneca experiences a higher property crime rate compared to national averages, with a chance of 1 in 42, while violent crime remains less common at a rate of 1 in 313. The city’s overall crime index suggests that while most residents feel safe, it’s wise to take standard precautions. Community initiatives and local law enforcement work to maintain a friendly, secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
320
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,400
Crime Index:
2,720
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 313
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in Seneca, SC year-round?
Seneca boasts a mild, four-season climate with warm summers averaging highs around 89°F and mild winters with lows near 32°F. The area enjoys 61% sunny days and receives about 59 inches of rainfall annually, providing lush scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents appreciate the generally comfortable weather year-round.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
59 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Seneca’s households have a median income of $48,000, with a family income averaging $60,500, and an unemployment rate of just 3.5%. The community is well-educated, with nearly 89% holding a high school diploma or higher, and most people enjoy short commute times of around 20.5 minutes. While the poverty rate is higher than average, residents tend to value the city’s affordable cost of living and tight-knit atmosphere.
Median Income:
$30,900
Household Income:
$48,000
Family Income:
$60,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,000
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
18.3%
Non English Speakers:
5.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
20.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.7%
Bachelors or More:
22.0%
Education
How are the schools in Seneca, SC?
Seneca offers quality educational options with public schools like Seneca High and Middle School, known for favorable student-teacher ratios. The city is also close to higher education institutions, including Tri-County Technical College and Clemson University, both within a 10-mile radius. Private school choices and a strong local commitment to education make it an appealing place for families.
Public Schools
Name:
Seneca High School
Street:
100 Bobcat Ridge
Phone:
864-886-4460
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Seneca Middle School
Street:
810 W South 4th St
Phone:
864-886-4455
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
Oconee Christian Academy
Street:
150 His Way Cir
Phone:
864-882-6925
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
Tri-County Technical College
City:
Pendleton
State:
SC
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
5,600
Name:
Clemson University
City:
Clemson
State:
SC
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
27,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Seneca is anchored by Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital, offering comprehensive general and emergency services. With about 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and a health insurance coverage rate of 90.1%, access to medical care is reliable and convenient. The city’s healthcare index supports its reputation for providing quality services to the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital
Address:
298 Memorial Dr, Seneca, SC 29672
Phone:
(864) 882-3351
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
74.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Seneca, SC?
Seneca’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $195,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $950. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen steady appreciation with a 6.2% rise in home values over the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates make it a stable choice for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$195,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Seneca can access DMV services locally at the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles on S Radio Station Rd. The office provides a full range of vehicle registration and licensing services, with helpful resources available online at the state DMV website. This convenient location streamlines transportation needs for newcomers and long-time residents.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
13009 S Radio Station Rd, Seneca, SC 29678
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.