Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Spartanburg, SC
Considering a move to Spartanburg, SC? With a population of about 38,400, this friendly Southern city offers affordable living with median home prices around $176,000 and average rents under $1,000. Residents enjoy short 18-minute commutes, a mild climate with 64% sunny days, and access to major hospitals and higher ed institutions. While crime rates are above national averages, Spartanburg’s vibrant community, improving housing market, and growing downtown make it an appealing choice for those seeking value and opportunity in the Upstate.
Demographics - Spartanburg, SC
Demographics - Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg is a diverse city of 38,400 residents, with a nearly even split between White (47.2%) and Black (45.6%) populations. The median age is 36.1, reflecting a balanced mix of families, professionals, and retirees. A notable 7.9% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the city’s cultural richness.
Population:
38,400
Density:
1,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.1
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.9%
Ethnic Composition
White:
47.2%
Black:
45.6%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
5.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Spartanburg, SC?
Spartanburg offers affordable living, with median home values around $176,000 and average rents of $940. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making essentials like groceries and utilities more budget-friendly for residents. State income tax ranges from 0% to 7%, further supporting an affordable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$176,000
Gross Rent:
$940
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,130
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.2
Grocery:
95.5
Housing:
62.1
Utilities:
99.8
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
93.0
Miscellaneous:
92.3
Crime
Is Spartanburg, SC a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Spartanburg are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 88 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 19 chance of property crime. While safety is a concern, many neighborhoods are actively working to improve security and community engagement. Prospective residents should research specific areas to find the best fit for their needs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,140
Property Crimes Per 100k:
5,240
Crime Index:
6,380
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 88
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 19
Weather
What is the weather like in Spartanburg, SC year-round?
Spartanburg enjoys a mild, temperate climate with warm summers reaching highs of 90°F and cool winters dipping to 31°F. Residents benefit from 64% sunny days each year and an average annual rainfall of 46.3 inches, making the city ideal for outdoor activities and year-round enjoyment.
Winter
Min:
31°F
Max:
52°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
74°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
90°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
The typical household in Spartanburg earns about $46,900 annually, with a family income averaging $58,700. The area has a poverty rate of 22.5% and most commutes are a quick 18.5 minutes, reflecting a small-city pace. With 85.4% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher, the community values education and a strong work ethic.
Median Income:
$31,800
Household Income:
$46,900
Family Income:
$58,700
Per Capita Income:
$23,200
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
7.9%
Rent:
$940
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.4%
Bachelors or More:
25.7%
Education
How are the schools in Spartanburg, SC?
Spartanburg boasts a range of public and private schools, including Spartanburg High School and Spartanburg Day School, both known for community involvement. Higher education options are strong, with Wofford College and the University of South Carolina Upstate located in the city, offering diverse opportunities for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Spartanburg High School
Street:
2250 E Main St
Phone:
864-594-4410
Students:
2,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Name:
Drayton Mills Elementary School
Street:
1825 Skylyn Dr
Phone:
864-594-4444
Students:
780
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Private Schools
Name:
Spartanburg Day School
Street:
1701 Skylyn Dr
Phone:
864-582-7539
Students:
820
Colleges
Name:
Wofford College
City:
Spartanburg
State:
SC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,800
Name:
University of South Carolina Upstate
City:
Spartanburg
State:
SC
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
6,100
Healthcare
Spartanburg is served by major healthcare providers such as Spartanburg Medical Center and Pelham Medical Center, both offering emergency services. Health insurance coverage is high at 89.5%, and there are about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, making quality healthcare accessible for most locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Spartanburg Medical Center
Address:
101 E Wood St, Spartanburg, SC 29303
Phone:
(864) 560-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Pelham Medical Center
Address:
250 Westmoreland Rd, Greer, SC 29651
Phone:
(864) 530-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
74.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Spartanburg, SC?
The housing market in Spartanburg is attractive for buyers and renters, with a median home price of $176,000 and average two-bedroom rent around $950. Home values have appreciated 6.2% over the past year, and a rental vacancy rate of 10.5% offers flexibility for newcomers. Owner occupancy sits at 44.1%, supporting a balanced mix of homeowners and renters.
Median Home Price:
$176,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
44.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. The nearest full-service location is in Darlington, and the DMV’s comprehensive website provides information on licensing, registration, and other resources.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1625 Harry Byrd Hwy, Darlington, SC 29532
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.