Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Walterboro, SC
Thinking of moving to Walterboro, SC? This welcoming city of about 5,460 residents features affordable living, with median home prices around $152,000 and average rents near $900—well below the national average. While crime rates are higher than average, Walterboro offers a mild climate with 63% sunny days and convenient local healthcare. Commute times are short (about 25 minutes), and educational opportunities include both public and private schools, plus two nearby colleges. Walterboro is an affordable, friendly community for those seeking Southern charm and value.
Demographics - Walterboro, SC
Demographics - Walterboro, SC
Walterboro is home to approximately 5,460 residents, with a median age of just over 40 years, creating a balanced mix of families and older adults. The community is predominantly Black (about 52%) and White (around 42%), with a moderate population density of 930 people per square mile. Non-English speakers make up a small portion of the population, contributing to the city's close-knit, locally rooted feel.
Population:
5,460
Density:
930 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.2
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
41.7%
Black:
51.8%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
6.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Walterboro, SC?
Walterboro stands out for its affordability, with median home values at $152,000 and average rents around $900 per month, significantly lower than national averages. The cost of living index is 80.5, offering savings across housing, transportation, and groceries. Utilities and auto insurance costs remain reasonable, making the city attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$152,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
80.5
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
66.5
Utilities:
103.2
Transportation:
89.1
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Walterboro, SC a safe place to live?
Walterboro experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a violent crime rate of 632 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 3,260 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 158 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 31 chance for property crime, so it's important to consider neighborhood safety when choosing where to live. Taking standard precautions and staying informed about local trends can help ensure peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
632
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,260
Crime Index:
3,892
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 158
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Walterboro, SC year-round?
Walterboro enjoys a mild climate, with winter lows around 38°F and summer highs reaching 91°F, making outdoor activities accessible year-round. The city sees about 49 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 63% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Overall, the weather is comfortable and well-suited for those who appreciate a warm, subtropical environment.

Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F

Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
76°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
91°F

Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
The community in Walterboro is friendly and diverse, with a median household income of about $36,900 and a poverty rate of 24.6%. Most residents commute around 25 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal. Educational attainment is moderate, with over 80% of adults holding a high school diploma, fostering a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Median Income:
$27,100
Household Income:
$36,900
Family Income:
$42,400
Per Capita Income:
$19,700
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$27,900
Poverty Rate:
24.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
6.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
24.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
81.2%
Bachelors or More:
13.8%
Education
How are the schools in Walterboro, SC?
Walterboro offers a variety of educational choices, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and private school options like Colleton Preparatory Academy. For higher education, residents benefit from the proximity of Technical College of the Lowcountry and the University of South Carolina - Salkehatchie, both located within city limits. This range of institutions supports families and lifelong learners alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Forest Hills Elementary School
Street:
633 Hiers Corner Rd
Phone:
843-782-4514
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Name:
Colleton County Middle School
Street:
1379 Tuskegee Airmen Dr
Phone:
843-782-0040
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4

Private Schools
Name:
Colleton Preparatory Academy
Street:
165 Academy Rd
Phone:
843-538-8959
Students:
400

Colleges
Name:
Technical College of the Lowcountry - Walterboro
City:
Walterboro
State:
SC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
500
Name:
University of South Carolina - Salkehatchie
City:
Walterboro
State:
SC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Walterboro residents have convenient access to healthcare, anchored by Colleton Medical Center, a full-service hospital offering emergency services. The city has about 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% of people have health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are reliable and accessible, providing peace of mind for families and seniors alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Colleton Medical Center
Address:
501 Robertson Blvd, Walterboro, SC 29488
Phone:
(843) 782-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.9%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Walterboro, SC?
Walterboro's housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $152,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $900. Over half of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has experienced a 6.1% home appreciation rate in the past year. Both buyers and renters will find a range of options in a stable, value-driven market.
Median Home Price:
$152,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles at 102 Mable T. Willis Blvd. The office offers essential vehicle registration and licensing services for residents. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the official website or call the listed phone number.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
102 Mable T. Willis Blvd, Walterboro, SC 29488
Phone:
843-538-4106
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.