Average Rent in Darlington County, SC
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 62,754
Market Overview
Darlington County, SC has rental prices ranging from $868/month to $1,523/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $874/month — 38% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $47,419/year, spending $874/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Darlington County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,093/month, Darlington County ranks #14 most expensive of the 38 cities tracked in South Carolina — pricier than 63% of all US cities in our data.
The Darlington County Rental Market
The Darlington County, SC area has a population of about 62,754 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 Darlington County, SC have fallen by $5/month (0.5%) over the past year, from $1,098 to $1,093. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Darlington County, SC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $34,960. The local median household income of $47,419 exceeds that threshold by $12,459, making Darlington County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Darlington County, SC has an unemployment rate of 5.0%, 1.1 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.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Darlington County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are North Hartsville ($180,212 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Darlington 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 Darlington County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Darlington County data
Buying breaks even after 2 years — worth it if you stay 2+ years.
Living in Darlington County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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