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Darlington County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#12 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
44.9
County Score
Property Tax 92.2Water Quality 86Cost of Living 64.2

County Report Card

About Darlington County, South Carolina

Mid-Range Quality Below National Median

Darlington County earns a composite score of 44.9, which is just shy of the national median of 50.0. It offers a solid baseline of livability for its region, though it still faces typical rural economic pressures. It provides a stable, if not elite, national profile.

Surpassing the South Carolina Average

With a 44.9 composite score, Darlington County outperforms the South Carolina state average of 42.8. It serves as a reliable hub in the Pee Dee region, balancing its challenges with stronger infrastructure than many nearby counties. This makes it a relatively strong performer within the state.

High Tax Efficiency and Utility Quality

The county excels with a Tax Score of 92.2 and a Water Score of 86.0. An effective tax rate of 0.427% and a School Score of 52.9—the highest in this group—provide a strong foundation for resident families. These strengths highlight a well-managed local environment for the price.

Safety and Income Remain Concerns

The Safety Score is a very low 2.0, which is the most pressing issue for the local community. Additionally, the Income Score of 10.1 reflects a median household income of $47,419, indicating limited high-wage opportunities. Health outcomes also lag with a score of 28.2, suggesting room for better medical access.

Best for Families Seeking Value

Darlington County is a great option for families who want better-than-average schools without the high costs of major metros. It offers excellent tax efficiency and reliable utilities for a very low entry price. It suits those who prioritize homeownership and education over a high-earning local job market.

2040608010092.264.2228.252.910.127.78649Tax92.2Cost64.2Safety2Health28.2Schools52.9Income10.1Risk27.7Water86Weather4944.9/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Darlington County DNA

Foverall

How Darlington County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Darlington County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (92.2/100) but notably weak in Safety (2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
92.2+40.2
Cost
64.2+16.200000000000003
Safety
2-53
Health
28.2-21.8
Schools
52.9
Income
10.1-40.9
Risk
27.7-19.3
Water
86+28
Weather
49
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$141,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$876/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$141,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$35,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $47,419/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

20.7

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Compare Darlington County with Pope County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Lee County
South Carolina
43.9
Chesterfield County
South Carolina
43.2
Marlboro County
South Carolina
39.8
Florence County
South Carolina
39.5
Kershaw County
South Carolina
42.5
Dillon County
South Carolina
40.3
Sumter County
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35.2
Scotland County
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37.4

Deep Dives

Darlington County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Darlington County

via TaxByCounty

Darlington taxes fall below national norm

Darlington's 0.427% effective tax rate sits comfortably below the national median of 0.52%, ranking it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. The median property tax of just $604 is roughly 22% of the national median of $2,690, adjusted for Darlington's lower home values.

Darlington ranks among state's lowest

At 0.427%, Darlington's effective tax rate ranks in the lower quartile statewide, notably below South Carolina's 0.542% average. Residents pay about $335 less annually than South Carolina's median of $939.

Low-tax county in its peer group

Darlington's 0.427% rate ranks third-lowest among these eight counties, behind only Charleston (0.413%) and Calhoun (0.423%). It significantly undercuts Chester (0.588%), Colleton (0.605%), and Clarendon (0.576%).

Modest homes, modest tax burden

Darlington homeowners with a $141,400 median-value property pay approximately $604 in annual property tax. Adding mortgage escrow typically brings that yearly obligation to around $744.

Darlington homeowners can still save more

Even in relatively low-tax Darlington, many property assessments exceed fair market value. Filing a formal appeal with the county assessor is cost-free and could reduce your yearly property tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Darlington County

via CostByCounty

Darlington's housing burden rivals national stress

Darlington County renters spend 22.2% of income on housing, edging above the national average of 20.1% and South Carolina's 20.1% median. With rents at $876 monthly paired with a median household income of $47,419, Darlington residents face tighter affordability than most of the nation.

South Carolina's most squeezed housing market

Darlington's 22.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the state's highest, nearly matching Colleton County's 22.3% burden and vastly exceeding the state average. This metric signals genuine affordability crisis for renters, with housing consuming over one-fifth of gross income.

Darlington strains more than nearby alternatives

Darlington renters face a 22.2% housing burden at $876 monthly, compared to Chesterfield's 19.6% ($776) and Clarendon's 17.9% ($728). Relocating to either neighbor could save $100–$150 monthly while cutting housing burden by 2–4 percentage points.

Housing dominates household budgets here

Darlington renters pay $876 monthly from a median income of $47,419, while homeowners spend $601 for ownership costs. At 22.2% of income for renters and 15.2% for owners, Darlington pushes housing toward the concerning 30% affordability threshold, limiting resources for healthcare, food, and transportation.

Darlington faces steep housing costs; compare nearby

With a 22.2% housing burden among South Carolina's highest, Darlington ranks as one of the state's most strained markets for renters. Before relocating here, compare Darlington directly to Chesterfield and Clarendon, which offer 2–4 percentage point advantages in housing affordability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Darlington County

via IncomeByCounty

Darlington's income far below national average

Darlington County's median household income of $47,419 falls $27,336 below the U.S. median of $74,755. The county ranks among the lowest-earning in America, underscoring the economic strain in rural South Carolina.

Among state's lowest-income counties

At $47,419, Darlington ranks in the bottom quartile of South Carolina's 46 counties, falling $9,587 below the state average of $57,006. Per capita income of $30,281 slightly exceeds the state average of $32,382, suggesting some income concentration.

Lowest-earning county in peer group

Darlington's $47,419 is the lowest among its rural neighbors: Chesterfield ($47,620), Clarendon ($48,887), Colleton ($48,779), and Chester ($51,216). The consistent clustering of rural counties near or below $50,000 highlights shared agricultural and manufacturing employment constraints.

Housing costs pressures on modest incomes

Darlington's rent-to-income ratio of 22.2% ranks second-highest in the group, indicating housing claims over one-fifth of earnings. The median home value of $141,400 is reasonable in absolute terms, but heavy relative burden on lower incomes.

Focus on earnings growth and savings

Darlington residents benefit from tackling housing-cost pressure by exploring career development, certifications, and higher-wage job opportunities. Build financial discipline through budgeting and emergency savings, then leverage compound growth through retirement and investment accounts.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Darlington County

via CrimeByCounty

National Context for Darlington County

Darlington County faces a high crime rate of 4982.1 per 100,000, more than double the national average of 2,385.5. Consequently, its safety score is 92.1, the lowest in this regional group.

Darlington's State Safety Standings

The county's safety score of 92.1 is significantly below the South Carolina average of 95.4. It represents one of the more active areas for law enforcement in the state.

Higher Crime Rates than Neighbors

Darlington's rate of 4982.1 is much higher than Clarendon (4014.3) or Chesterfield (3420.1). It stands out as a high-crime outlier compared to these surrounding counties.

Detailed Breakdown of Crime Types

Violent crime is 975.8, nearly triple the national average, while property crime reaches 4006.3 per 100,000. These statistics highlight a serious need for community safety initiatives.

Maximized Home Protection

Residents should employ a multi-layered security approach, including alarms, cameras, and reinforced doors. Vigilance and community cooperation are essential for reducing crime in Darlington.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Darlington County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse School System in Darlington

Darlington County features 21 public schools including 12 elementary and six high schools. This robust network serves 9,587 students across two distinct school districts.

Darlington Leads with High Graduation Rates

The county boasts an impressive 91.1% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the state and national averages. Spending of $7,295 per pupil also exceeds the state average of $7,165.

Specialized Districts and Charter Options

Darlington 01 is the largest district with 9,042 students. The county is also home to the prestigious Governor's School for Science and Mathematics and one local charter school.

From Towns to Suburbs

The school landscape is balanced with eight rural, seven town, and six suburban locales. Hartsville High is the largest school with 1,133 students, while Darlington High serves 1,054.

Top-Rated Education for Your Next Home

With one of the highest graduation rates in the region, Darlington County is a prime choice for families. High-performing schools in Hartsville and Darlington make the area a standout for home buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Darlington County

via RiskByCounty

Darlington faces slightly above-average national risk

Darlington County's composite risk score of 72.26 places it in the Relatively Low category but slightly above the national average, reflecting moderate exposure to natural disasters. The county scores elevated on tornado (84.35), hurricane (87.86), and earthquake (86.10), while flood (64.22) and wildfire (73.95) remain more controlled. This profile positions Darlington as an average-to-above-average risk county within the national context.

Darlington ranks slightly above state average

Darlington County's composite score of 72.26 exceeds South Carolina's 70.75 state average, placing it among the state's moderate-risk counties despite its Relatively Low designation. Tornado (84.35), hurricane (87.86), and earthquake (86.10) exposures particularly elevate Darlington's profile relative to lower-risk inland counties. This positioning reflects Darlington's combined exposure to spring severe weather and Atlantic hurricane tracks.

Darlington comparable in risk to Chesterfield

Darlington County's 72.26 score closely aligns with Chesterfield County (73.98), positioning both as the region's moderate-risk counties with similar hazard exposure. Both significantly exceed Chester County (43.16) in overall risk while remaining well below coastal Charleston County (98.63). This similarity suggests shared disaster preparedness concerns across the regional corridor.

Tornadoes and hurricanes present primary threats

Darlington County's highest risks stem from tornado (84.35), hurricane (87.86), and earthquake (86.10) hazards, all scoring significantly above typical county levels and creating compound severe weather exposure. Wildfire risk (73.95) remains meaningful, while flood risk (64.22) ranks moderate. The combination of spring tornado season and Atlantic hurricane tracks creates distinct seasonal vulnerability periods.

Wind coverage and earthquake insurance recommended

Darlington County homeowners should maintain comprehensive wind and hail coverage in their homeowners policies given tornado (84.35) and hurricane (87.86) exposures—ensure deductibles reflect realistic repair costs. Earthquake insurance merits consideration given the elevated 86.10 score, and reviewing flood exposure in low-lying areas remains prudent despite moderate flood risk. Annual policy reviews ensure your coverage keeps pace with changing climate conditions and property values.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Darlington County

via WaterByCounty

Darlington County Maintains Perfect Tap Water Compliance

Darlington County achieves an A grade with zero health violations recorded over the last five years. This performance is significantly better than the state average violation rate of 22.2 per 100,000 people.

E. Coli and pH Levels Impair Local Streams

Despite clean tap water, 66.7% of assessed water bodies in the county are impaired as of the 2022 cycle. The primary contaminants identified in these waterways are E. coli and abnormal pH levels.

Technicians Track Nutrients and Physical Water Traits

Water quality is monitored at 16 local sites, recording 2,931 measurements over the past five years. Data collection primarily targets nutrient levels and physical properties to understand the impact of local impairments.

Black Creek Flows Dwindle During Dry Spell

Flow at Black Creek near Hartsville is currently 71 cfs, which is only 35% of its long-term typical mean. Low streamflows can reduce the dilution of pollutants like E. coli in natural water bodies.

Clean Tap Water Meets Impaired Local Waterways

Residents can rely on their tap water, but should exercise caution during recreational use of local streams due to high E. coli levels. Low flows in Black Creek may temporarily worsen these water quality issues until rains return.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Darlington County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistently Warm and Sunny

Darlington County averages 63.1°F annually, making it much warmer than the average US county. It features a humid subtropical climate with long, intense summers. The weather patterns are influenced by its inland position in the Coastal Plain.

Slightly Warmer Than the State Norm

Darlington's 63.1°F annual average is slightly higher than the South Carolina average of 62.8°F. Precipitation is near the state norm at 48.2 inches compared to the 48.9-inch average. It represents the classic, heat-driven weather of the state's interior.

Punched by More Extreme Heat

Darlington experiences 73 extreme heat days, far more than the 63 days seen in neighboring Dillon or Chesterfield. Its average temperature is identical to Clarendon's 63.1°F. However, it is slightly drier than Clarendon by about 7 inches of rain.

A Long Season of Extreme Heat

Summer is dominated by 73 days of temperatures over 90°F, with July averaging 81.7°F. Winter is mild at 46.2°F, though it occasionally sees a dusting of snow averaging 0.3 inches. The climate is defined by the sheer volume of hot days.

Max Out the Cooling System

With 73 days of extreme heat, a high-efficiency HVAC system is the most important home investment. Outdoor workers and residents should plan for intense July peaks of 81.7°F. Winter needs are minimal, as snow is virtually non-existent at 0.3 inches.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Darlington County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Profiles in Darlington

Darlington County's soil has an average pH of 5.04, placing it below the state average of 5.27. Compared to the national median of 6.5, this soil is quite acidic and may require amendments for non-native species. Most local agriculture has adapted to these conditions through careful nutrient management.

High Sand, Low Clay

The soil composition is nearly three-quarters sand at 74.8%, while clay makes up only 8.8%. This texture allows for excellent air circulation for plant roots but results in rapid drainage. Maintaining soil health here requires a focus on adding bulk to help retain moisture.

Rich Organic Content Advantage

The county features a strong organic matter content of 3.00%, significantly outperforming the state average of 2.05%. However, the available water capacity is lower at 0.097 in/in due to the high sand percentage. Even so, a soil score of 22.5 indicates a solid foundation for local farmers.

Managing Water in Sandy Ground

Specific drainage class data is unavailable, but the 74.8% sand content typically indicates very high permeability. Water will move through the soil quickly, which prevents root rot but increases the risk of drought stress. Mulching is a vital strategy here to keep the ground cool and moist.

Thriving Gardens in Zone 8b

In Hardiness Zone 8b, you can grow everything from camellias to summer corn with great success. The high organic matter provides the fuel needed for vibrant blooms and heavy vegetable yields. There is no better time than now to start planting in this productive South Carolina soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Darlington County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Darlington's Sandy Terrain

Darlington County scores 31.9 on the lawn difficulty scale, slightly trailing the South Carolina average of 35.1. Falling within Hardiness Zone 8b, your lawn care strategy must account for prolonged summer heat and acidic, sandy soil foundations.

Bracing for Seventy-Three Heat Days

This county is significantly hotter than its neighbors, enduring 73 days above 90°F annually compared to the state average of 63. While the 48.2 inches of rainfall is near the state norm, the high heat increases evaporation rates. Managing 5,521 Growing Degree Days requires consistent monitoring of soil moisture and nutrient levels.

Neutralizing Acidic Sandy Soils

The soil here is dominated by 74.8% sand and a low 8.8% clay content, leading to very fast drainage and nutrient loss. With a pH of 5.04, the soil is much more acidic than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for most turfgrasses. Frequent, small applications of fertilizer and regular liming are necessary to maintain a healthy lawn.

Prioritizing Water in Severe Drought

Darlington County spent 23 weeks in drought over the last year, and 57.4% of the county is currently in severe drought (D2+). Because the sand-heavy soil doesn't hold water well, these drought periods can turn a lawn brown very quickly. Invest in organic matter to improve soil water-holding capacity and reduce the frequency of irrigation.

Timing Your Warm-Season Seeding

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia are ideal for withstanding Darlington's 73 extreme heat days. Your last spring frost typically occurs on March 30, marking the perfect time to begin your spring lawn renovations. You have until November 6, the average date of the first frost, to enjoy a vibrant green landscape.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Darlington County's county score?
Darlington County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 44.9 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Darlington County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Darlington County ranks #12 among all counties in South Carolina on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Darlington County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Darlington County is $604, with an effective tax rate of 0.43%. This earns Darlington County a tax score of 92.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Darlington County?
The median household income in Darlington County, South Carolina is $47,419 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Darlington County earns an income score of 10.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Darlington County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Darlington County scores 44.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Darlington County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Darlington County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.