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Edgefield County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#2 in South Carolina

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59
County Score
Property Tax 90.5Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 78

County Report Card

About Edgefield County, South Carolina

Edgefield Exceeds National Standards

Edgefield County earns an impressive composite score of 59.0, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. This puts the county in the upper echelon of livability nationwide.

A Top Performer in South Carolina

The county's 59.0 score significantly exceeds the state average of 42.8. It stands out as one of the highest-rated counties in the region for overall quality of life.

Tax Advantages and Environmental Safety

Edgefield excels with a tax score of 90.5 and an effective tax rate of only 0.451%. Its risk score of 78.0 and water score of 86.0 indicate a secure environment with reliable utilities.

Room for Growth in Infrastructure

While its fiscal health is strong, the county sees lower scores in health (34.0) and schools (35.0). These indicators suggest that public services and healthcare access have not yet matched the county's economic gains.

Best for Families Seeking Stability

Edgefield is perfect for those seeking financial security, safety, and a lower tax burden. It offers a high-quality lifestyle for residents who can manage slightly more limited local healthcare and school options.

2040608010090.557.567.1343559.3788648.3Tax90.5Cost57.5Safety67.1Health34Schools35Income59.3Risk78Water86Weather48.359/100
This county
National avg
4 above average2 below average

Edgefield County DNA

Foverall

How Edgefield County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Edgefield County scores above average across most dimensions. It's a well-balanced county with particular strength in Property Tax (90.5/100).

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
90.5+38.5
Cost
57.5+9.5
Safety
67.1+12.099999999999994
Health
34-16
Schools
35-19
Income
59.3+8.299999999999997
Risk
78+31
Water
86+28
Weather
48.3
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$194,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$854/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$194,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$34,160/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $67,092/yr
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Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

64.1

per 100K

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

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Nearby counties

Columbia County
Georgia
51.5
McCormick County
South Carolina
59.4
Saluda County
South Carolina
50.1
Greenwood County
South Carolina
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Lincoln County
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Aiken County
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Richmond County
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McDuffie County
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46.4

Deep Dives

Edgefield County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Edgefield County

via TaxByCounty

Edgefield ranks among lowest-tax counties

At 0.451%, Edgefield's effective property tax rate falls in the bottom 10% nationally, well below the U.S. median of 0.87%. The median annual tax bill of $877 represents just one-third the national median of $2,690, offering residents some of the nation's most affordable property taxation.

South Carolina's lightest tax burden

Edgefield ranks among the lowest-taxed counties in South Carolina, with a 0.451% rate significantly below the state average of 0.542%. Its $877 median property tax is notably lower than the state median of $939, making it an attractive option for tax-conscious homeowners.

Edgefield tax advantage stands out

At 0.451%, Edgefield's rate is the third-lowest in the region, below Fairfield (0.529%) and Dillon (0.504%), but exceeding only Georgetown (0.426%). The lower effective rate combined with a reasonable median home value of $194,300 creates an appealing tax proposition.

Affordable taxes on moderate homes

A typical Edgefield County home valued at $194,300 generates an estimated annual property tax of $877. With a mortgage, homeowners report paying $1,151; without, the figure drops to $662.

Double-check your assessment value

Even in low-tax Edgefield, overassessments happen—particularly on rural or undeveloped properties where comparable sales are sparse. Requesting an assessment appeal is free and could further reduce your already modest tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Edgefield County

via CostByCounty

Edgefield rents rank among state's easiest

At 15.3%, Edgefield's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below both the national average and South Carolina's 20.1% state baseline. With median rents of just $854 and a household income of $67,092, renters here enjoy genuine affordability relative to the nation.

South Carolina's affordability leader

Edgefield boasts one of the state's lowest rent-to-income ratios at 15.3%, besting all but a handful of South Carolina counties. Median rents of $854 sit $91 below the state average while incomes remain competitive, creating an unusual combination.

Undercuts Greenwood, matches regional tone

Edgefield's $854 rent beats nearby Greenwood ($880) and Dillon ($692 is lower, but Dillon has much lower income). Among peer counties in the region, Edgefield delivers strong affordability without sacrificing income levels.

Both renters and owners find breathing room

Renters spend 15.3% of income on housing while homeowners invest 13.1%—both well below the stress threshold. The median home value of $194,300 and owner costs of $732 monthly reflect a market genuinely friendly to multiple income levels.

Edgefield rewards practical homebuyers

If you're comparing South Carolina counties for affordable living, Edgefield's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio and sub-$200,000 home values make it exceptional. You'll find more disposable income here than in faster-growing counties while maintaining stable, accessible housing costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Edgefield County

via IncomeByCounty

Edgefield's income approaches national median

Edgefield County's median household income of $67,092 falls 10% short of the national median of $74,755, placing it slightly below the American middle-income benchmark. Per capita income of $32,802 nearly matches national norms, suggesting income is reasonably distributed across households. The county reflects a moderate economic position relative to the nation.

Upper-middle earner among SC counties

Edgefield ranks in the upper tier of South Carolina's 46 counties, with median household income 18% above the state average of $57,006. Per capita income of $32,802 closely matches the state average, indicating fairly balanced earning distribution. Edgefield stands as one of the state's more economically stable communities.

Outearns western South Carolina peers

Edgefield's median income of $67,092 exceeds nearby Aiken County ($62,500) and Saluda County substantially. Neighboring Lexington County earns comparably, while Abbeville County trails Edgefield. The county's position along the Georgia border adds economic diversity that supports higher average incomes.

Housing costs well-controlled here

Edgefield's rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% is among the lowest in South Carolina, indicating housing claims only about one-sixth of household income. Median home values of $194,300 are reasonable relative to earnings, affording homeownership accessibility to many households. This favorable ratio gives Edgefield families financial breathing room.

Build generational wealth in Edgefield

Edgefield's moderate-to-strong incomes and affordable housing create an ideal environment for long-term wealth accumulation and property investment. Families should prioritize homeownership, retirement account contributions, and education savings to compound advantages over decades. Local banks and credit unions offer mortgage and investment products tailored to rural South Carolina communities.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Edgefield County

via CrimeByCounty

Remarkable Safety Levels for Edgefield

Edgefield boasts a total crime rate of only 771.5 per 100K, which is nearly three times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in an elite safety score of 98.8.

Setting the Standard for South Carolina

The county stands as a state leader in safety, significantly exceeding the South Carolina average score of 95.4. It is one of the most secure counties for families and visitors alike.

Outperforming Regional Averages

Edgefield's crime rate of 771.5 is remarkably low compared to the state average of 2,920.8. It offers a much quieter environment than many nearby population centers.

Minimal Crime Incidence Rates

Violent crime occurs at a very low rate of 87.8 per 100K, while property crime is limited to 683.7. These statistics highlight a community where major incidents are rare compared to national norms.

Community Vigilance Keeps Edgefield Safe

Maintaining a safe environment involves simple habits like locking doors and knowing your neighbors. These community-led efforts help preserve Edgefield's status as a safety leader.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Edgefield County

via SchoolsByCounty

Traditional Rural Education in Edgefield

Edgefield County operates 11 public schools for a student population of 3,875 across a single county-wide district. The system includes five elementary schools, two middle schools, and four high schools. This unified district approach ensures consistent curriculum and administration throughout the county.

Steady Growth and Competitive Scores

With a graduation rate of 85.0%, Edgefield outperforms the South Carolina state average of 84.2%. The county spends $7,273 per pupil, which is slightly above the state average but well below the national mark of $13,000. A composite school score of 51.5 places the county ahead of the state median of 50.8.

One District with Charter Options

Edgefield 01 serves the vast majority of local students, managing eight schools and 3,100 children. Interestingly, two of the 11 schools are charters, representing 18.2% of the local options and providing families with alternative educational paths. This includes Fox Creek High, a prominent charter institution serving 659 students.

A Private-Feeling Public Experience

The county is almost entirely rural, with 10 of its 11 schools located in rural settings and an average size of 388 students. Merriwether Elementary is the largest school at 768 students, while most other campuses offer a very small, personal atmosphere. This rural focus provides students with significant individual attention from faculty.

Build Your Life in Edgefield

If you prefer small school sizes and a rural pace, Edgefield County offers a compelling environment for your next home. Homes near Merriwether Elementary or Strom Thurmond High benefit from the strong community ties typical of a single-district county. Browse local listings to find a property that connects you to these tight-knit schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Edgefield County

via RiskByCounty

Edgefield enjoys very low disaster risk

Edgefield County scores just 21.98 on the composite risk scale, placing it far below both the national average and South Carolina's state average of 70.75. This very low risk rating reflects the county's inland location and relative insulation from major hazard zones.

One of South Carolina's safest counties

Edgefield ranks among the lowest-risk counties in South Carolina, with a composite score of 21.98 that is less than a third of the state average. This favorable position makes the county one of the most resilient in the state when it comes to natural disasters.

Edgefield significantly safer than peers

Edgefield's 21.98 score is dramatically lower than nearby Greenwood County (72.74) and Fairfield County (40.81), both of which face substantially higher composite risks. The county's inland, upland terrain provides natural protection that coastal and low-lying regions lack.

Earthquakes pose Edgefield's main concern

Earthquake risk registers at 68.10 in Edgefield, the highest hazard score despite the county's overall very low composite risk. Wildfire (57.89) and tornado (34.22) risks remain below state averages, reflecting the county's forested terrain and stable weather patterns.

Standard coverage typically sufficient here

Edgefield residents can rely on standard homeowners insurance for most scenarios, as flood and hurricane risks remain minimal at 31.27 and 69.84 respectively. Earthquake coverage remains optional but affordable, given the moderate seismic risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Edgefield County

via WaterByCounty

Edgefield Achieves Perfect Compliance Record

Edgefield County holds a Grade A rating with zero health violations reported in the last five years. Its violation rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents is a notable achievement compared to the state average of 22.2. This record reflects a high standard of safety for the county's public drinking water systems.

Critical Impairment Reported in Local Waters

The 2022 assessment shows that 100% of the county's assessed water bodies fail to meet Clean Water Act standards. E. coli is identified as the top impairment cause, representing a significant challenge for local watershed health. This rate is far higher than the South Carolina state average impairment of 42.6%.

Active Monitoring of Physical and Metal Levels

Eight monitoring sites across the county have generated 3,154 readings over a five-year period. The most measured characteristic groups include physical properties, nutrients, and metals. This consistent tracking helps local officials monitor the impact of runoff on the county's diverse water sources.

Stevens Creek Faces Severe Low Flow

The gauge at Stevens Creek near Modoc reports a current discharge of only 29 cfs. This is a mere 8% of the long-term mean of 388 cfs, indicating a severe hydrological deficit. Such low flows significantly reduce the creek's ability to dilute pollutants and support local wildlife.

Take Precautions Against High Bacteria Levels

Because all assessed water bodies in Edgefield are impaired by E. coli, residents should use extreme caution with untreated surface water. The severe low flow in Stevens Creek exacerbates these risks by concentrating contaminants. While municipal tap water is safe, those on private wells should prioritize regular bacterial testing.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Edgefield County

via WeatherByCounty

A typical humid southern climate

Edgefield County's 62.7°F average annual temperature is significantly higher than the national median. This consistent warmth defines the local agricultural and outdoor lifestyle.

Tracking the state average closely

Edgefield sits right at the heart of state norms, trailing the South Carolina average of 62.8°F by only 0.1 degrees. Its 48.2 inches of annual rain is also nearly identical to the state average of 48.9 inches.

Consistent with Piedmont patterns

The county shares a similar profile with its neighbors, maintaining a balanced 62.7°F annual temperature. It receives typical rainfall for the region, avoiding the heavier extremes found on the coast.

Eighty days of extreme heat

Summer heat is a major factor here, with 81 days hitting 90°F or higher and a July average of 80.9°F. Winters are brief and cool, averaging 45.9°F with less than an inch of snow.

Prioritize cooling and sun protection

Plan outdoor activities for early morning to avoid the 81 days of 90-degree heat. Since snow is rare at 0.8 inches, winter prep focus should remain on occasional pipe protection during the 44.0°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Edgefield County

via SoilByCounty

Fine Sandy Loams of the Alfisols

Edgefield County is characterized by Fine Sandy Loam and the Alfisols taxonomic order. Its pH of 5.46 is less acidic than the state average of 5.27, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.

A Balanced Loamy Blend

With 63.0% sand, 23.8% silt, and 13.2% clay, this soil offers a more balanced texture than coastal neighbors. This higher silt and clay content helps the soil retain both moisture and vital nutrients for crops.

Steady Moisture, Low Carbon

The available water capacity of 0.120 in/in beats the state average, indicating reliable moisture retention. However, organic matter is low at 1.12%, suggesting a need for cover crops or compost to boost long-term fertility.

Reliable Well-Drained Grounds

This soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group C. These properties make Edgefield's land suitable for agriculture and development, as it manages rainfall effectively without excessive saturation.

Peaches and Beyond in 8b

Edgefield is famous for its peaches, which thrive in these well-drained loams in zone 8b. Add compost to your home garden to compensate for the naturally low organic matter and watch your yields grow.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Edgefield County

via LawnByCounty

Midlands Lawn Care in Edgefield County

Edgefield County’s lawn difficulty score of 36.8 is slightly better than the South Carolina average of 35.1. Residents in this Hardiness Zone 8b area face typical regional challenges but generally find more success than their neighbors in Dorchester. Even so, the county trails the national lawn score of 50.0 by over 13 points.

Intense Heat Peaks in the Midlands

The county experiences a staggering 81 extreme heat days per year, far exceeding the state average of 63. Precipitation is nearly ideal at 48.2 inches annually, though the high heat necessitates careful irrigation timing. Mowing schedules must remain aggressive to keep up with 5366 growing degree days.

Well-Drained Loam Supports Healthy Turf

Edgefield features fine sandy loam that is naturally well-drained, providing a better physical foundation than many coastal counties. The pH of 5.46 is acidic and requires adjustment with lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range. With 63.0% sand and 13.2% clay, the soil offers a balanced texture for root development.

Managing Severe Drought in the Heat

Current data shows 59.7% of the county is in severe drought, part of a 23-week trend over the past year. Because all of Edgefield is abnormally dry, using mulch around lawn edges can help preserve soil moisture. Deep watering twice a week is more effective than daily light sprinkling in these conditions.

Starting Your Edgefield Lawn Project

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are highly recommended to handle the 81 days of extreme heat. Target late spring for seeding or sodding, safely past the March 26 frost date and before the November 8 cooling. With proper soil adjustment, your lawn can thrive in this 8b hardiness zone.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Edgefield County's county score?
Edgefield County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 59 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 Edgefield County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Edgefield County ranks #2 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 Edgefield County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Edgefield County is $877, with an effective tax rate of 0.45%. This earns Edgefield County a tax score of 90.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Edgefield County?
The median household income in Edgefield County, South Carolina is $67,092 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Edgefield County earns an income score of 59.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Edgefield County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Edgefield County scores 59/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #2 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Edgefield 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 Edgefield 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.