Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Varnville, SC
Thinking of moving to Varnville, SC? This friendly town of 1,675 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $92,300 and rents near $690. Commute times average 26.5 minutes, and the climate is warm and sunny most of the year. While crime rates are a bit higher than average, Varnville features a local hospital, small class sizes in public schools, and a low cost of living, making it a solid choice for those seeking small-town life with Southern charm.
Demographics - Varnville, SC
Demographics - Varnville, SC
Varnville is a close-knit community of 1,675 residents with a population density of 530 per square mile. The town has a diverse population, with a majority of Black residents (58%) and a median age of nearly 40, offering a balanced mix of families and older adults. Non-English speakers make up a small portion of the community, contributing to its welcoming, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
1,675
Density:
530 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.8
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
38.5%
Black:
58.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Varnville, SC?
Living in Varnville is highly affordable, with a median home value of $92,300 and average rent at just $690. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it appealing for those seeking budget-friendly housing and everyday expenses. Utilities are slightly above average, but groceries, transportation, and health care all remain reasonably priced.
Median House Value:
$92,300
Gross Rent:
$690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$325
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.4
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
48.7
Utilities:
113.0
Transportation:
88.5
Health Care:
97.9
Miscellaneous:
95.3
Crime
Is Varnville, SC a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Varnville are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 196 chance of experiencing violent crime and property crime more common at 1 in 48. While the community is generally friendly, potential residents should be aware of local safety concerns and take standard precautions. The overall crime index reflects the importance of being vigilant, especially regarding property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
510
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,610
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 196
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Varnville, SC year-round?
Varnville enjoys a warm, sunny climate with mild winters and hot summers—winter lows average 37°F, while summer highs reach 92°F. The area receives about 47.5 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine nearly two-thirds of the year. This weather is ideal for outdoor activities and gardening most months.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
61°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
82°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents of Varnville have a median household income of $35,800, and about 30% live below the poverty line, reflecting some economic challenges. The community is largely composed of working families, with most people commuting about 26.5 minutes to work and a very low rate of public transit use. Educational attainment is moderate, with over three-quarters holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$21,400
Household Income:
$35,800
Family Income:
$43,700
Per Capita Income:
$18,300
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
29.6%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$690
Unemployment Rate:
7.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
26.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.2%
Education
How are the schools in Varnville, SC?
Varnville is served by small, community-focused public schools, with class sizes around 13 to 14 students per teacher for personal attention. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible through the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, just 26 miles away. Families benefit from dedicated local schools and nearby college opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Varnville Elementary School
Street:
395 Pine St
Phone:
803-943-3251
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
North District Middle School
Street:
507 Railroad Ave
Phone:
803-943-3765
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14:1
Colleges
Name:
University of South Carolina Salkehatchie
City:
Walterboro
State:
SC
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Healthcare needs in Varnville are served by Hampton Regional Medical Center, offering emergency and general medical services locally. There are 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents, and around 87% of the population has health insurance coverage. Access to essential care is available without leaving town, supporting community well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Hampton Regional Medical Center
Address:
595 W Carolina Ave, Varnville, SC 29944
Phone:
(803) 943-2771
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.2%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Varnville, SC?
The housing market in Varnville is notably affordable, with a median home price of $92,300 and rents for a two-bedroom averaging $690. Most residents own their homes, and the area has a modest home appreciation rate of 6.9% over the past year. Rental vacancies are higher than average, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$92,300
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$690
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Varnville residents manage their vehicle and licensing needs through the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently accessible via their statewide office, website, or phone. The nearest main office is located at 1331 Elmwood Ave in Columbia, providing all standard DMV services. Online options make routine tasks even easier for locals.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1331 Elmwood Ave, Columbia, SC 29201
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.