Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Summerville, SC
Considering a move to Summerville, SC? This fast-growing city of about 53,000 offers affordable living with a median home price of $315,000 and typical rents around $1,380. Residents enjoy a mild climate with 63% sunny days, access to quality healthcare, and family-friendly schools. Commute times average 28 minutes, and while property crime is above national averages, the community offers a welcoming feel and excellent access to Charleston’s larger job market and attractions. Discover Summerville’s blend of Southern charm, affordability, and vibrant local amenities below.
Demographics - Summerville, SC
Demographics - Summerville, SC
Summerville is home to about 53,000 residents with a median age of 37.6, offering a balanced mix of families and professionals. The community is predominantly White (71.2%) with a significant Black population (20.5%) and a small but notable percentage of other ethnicities. With a moderate population density and nearly 7% non-English speakers, the city has a welcoming and diverse atmosphere.
Population:
53,000
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.6
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
71.2%
Black:
20.5%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
6.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Summerville, SC?
Summerville offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $315,000 and average rent at $1,380. Utility costs and groceries are close to national averages, while housing remains relatively accessible compared to many other markets. State income tax rates vary from 0% to 7%, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and professionals.
Median House Value:
$315,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,720
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.8
Grocery:
98.1
Housing:
89.0
Utilities:
102.5
Transportation:
96.4
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
97.2
Crime
Is Summerville, SC a safe place to live?
Summerville experiences a moderate crime rate, with violent crime at 234 incidents per 100,000 residents and property crime higher than the national average. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 427, while property crime risk stands at 1 in 44. While safety is generally good, residents should remain vigilant, especially regarding property protection.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
234
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,250
Crime Index:
2,484
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 427
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Summerville, SC year-round?
Summerville enjoys a mild climate featuring warm summers reaching highs of 92°F and mild winters with lows around 38°F. The area receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 63% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are pleasant, offering comfortable living throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
61°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Local households in Summerville have a median income of $75,400, with a poverty rate just over 10%. Most residents commute around 28 minutes to work, and the community boasts a high educational attainment, with nearly 93% holding at least a high school diploma. The area is family-friendly and stable, with low unemployment and a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$35,600
Household Income:
$75,400
Family Income:
$85,500
Per Capita Income:
$33,200
Income Male:
$41,900
Income Female:
$33,500
Poverty Rate:
10.7%
Non English Speakers:
6.8%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
28.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
30.5%
Education
How are the schools in Summerville, SC?
Summerville offers quality public and private schools, including Summerville High School and Alston Middle School, both known for their strong student programs. Nearby higher education options like Charleston Southern University and Trident Technical College are easily accessible within a short drive. The city’s commitment to education supports learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Public Schools
Name:
Summerville High School
Street:
1101 Boone Hill Rd
Phone:
843-873-6460
Students:
3,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.6
Name:
Alston Middle School
Street:
500 Bryan St
Phone:
843-873-3890
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.4
Private Schools
Name:
Summerville Catholic School
Street:
226 Black Oak Blvd
Phone:
843-873-9310
Students:
240
Colleges
Name:
Charleston Southern University
City:
North Charleston
State:
SC
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
3,400
Name:
Trident Technical College
City:
Charleston
State:
SC
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
11,500
Healthcare
Summerville provides reliable healthcare access with major facilities like Summerville Medical Center and Trident Medical Center nearby. Residents benefit from a high health insurance coverage rate of nearly 90% and about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people. The healthcare environment is well-equipped to serve families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Summerville Medical Center
Address:
295 Midland Pkwy, Summerville, SC 29485
Phone:
(843) 873-1500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Trident Medical Center
Address:
9330 Medical Plaza Dr, Charleston, SC 29406
Phone:
(843) 797-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
68.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Summerville, SC?
The housing market in Summerville is stable, with a median home price of $315,000 and a homeownership rate of nearly 69%. Rental options are available, with two-bedroom units averaging $1,380 per month, and the area has seen a healthy 6.2% home appreciation in the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates suggest a strong and growing real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$315,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Summerville residents are served by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles located at 135 W. Richardson Ave. The DMV offers a full range of vehicle and licensing services, with more information available at the official website. Local access makes handling vehicle registration and driver services convenient for newcomers and established residents.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
135 W. Richardson Ave, Summerville, SC 29483
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.