Average Rent in Barnwell County, SC↓ Rents falling 4.1% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 20,565
Market Overview
Barnwell County, SC has rental prices ranging from $648/month to $1,172/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $682/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $41,800/year, spending $682/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Barnwell County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $892/month, Barnwell County ranks #24 most expensive of the 38 cities tracked in South Carolina — more affordable than 97% of all US cities in our data.
The Barnwell County Rental Market
The Barnwell County, SC area has a population of about 20,565 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Barnwell County, SC have fallen by $38/month (4.1%) over the past year, from $930 to $892. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Barnwell County, SC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,280. The local median household income of $41,800 exceeds that threshold by $14,520, making Barnwell County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Barnwell County, SC has an unemployment rate of 5.1%, 1.2 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Barnwell County, SC Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in SClargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anderson | $972 | $1,012 | $1,102 | $1,444 | — |
| Greenville | $1,329 | $1,384 | $1,507 | $1,801 | — |
| Columbia | $992 | $1,126 | $1,226 | $1,546 | — |
| Charleston | $1,661 | $1,731 | $1,884 | $2,336 | — |
| Myrtle Beach | $1,155 | $1,258 | $1,504 | $1,823 | — |
| Spartanburg | $1,055 | $1,099 | $1,196 | $1,457 | — |
Rent or Buy in Barnwell County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Barnwell County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Barnwell County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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