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Marlboro County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#32 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
39.8
County Score
Cost of Living 93.5Water Quality 86Property Tax 70.1

County Report Card

About Marlboro County, South Carolina

Struggling to Meet National Medians

Marlboro County posts a composite score of 39.8, trailing the national median of 50.0 by a significant margin. This suggests the county faces systemic challenges in health and economic stability.

Trailing South Carolina Averages

The county's 39.8 score sits below the South Carolina average of 42.8. It struggles to compete with faster-growing counties nearby but maintains a lead in pure housing value.

Deep Value in Housing and Utilities

Marlboro shines in affordability with a Cost Score of 93.5 and a Water Score of 86.0. Median gross rents are just $686, offering residents some of the lowest housing overhead in the region.

Low Incomes and School Scores

The county faces stiff headwinds with an Income Score of 1.3 and a School Score of 11.1. These numbers reflect a local economy with limited high-wage jobs and educational resources.

For the Budget-Driven Resident

Marlboro County is best for those seeking extreme affordability in exchange for fewer local amenities. It is a niche choice for families focusing strictly on minimizing monthly housing expenses.

2040608010070.193.54.314.311.11.342.58651.7Tax70.1Cost93.5Safety4.3Health14.3Schools11.1Income1.3Risk42.5Water86Weather51.739.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Marlboro County DNA

Foverall

How Marlboro County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Marlboro County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (93.5/100) but notably weak in Safety (4.3/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
70.1+18.099999999999994
Cost
93.5+45.5
Safety
4.3-50.7
Health
14.3-35.7
Schools
11.1-42.9
Income
1.3-49.7
Risk
42.5
Water
86+28
Weather
51.7
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$74,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$686/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$74,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$27,440/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $36,293/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

26.6

per 100K

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

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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Marlboro County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Marlboro County

via TaxByCounty

Marlboro taxes modest by national standards

Marlboro County's effective rate of 0.638% places it in the bottom 20% nationally, well below the typical American property tax burden. At a median of $475 annually, Marlboro homeowners pay less than one-fifth of the national median tax of $2,690.

Middle-of-pack across South Carolina

Marlboro County ranks 19th among South Carolina's 46 counties with an effective rate of 0.638%, slightly above the state average of 0.542%. The median tax bill of $475 is roughly half the state average of $939, reflecting lower home values in the county.

Higher rate than Marion, lower than McCormick

Marlboro's 0.638% effective rate sits between Marion County's 0.457% and the more tax-heavy counties like McCormick and Newberry. Compared to nearby Marion, Marlboro homeowners pay about $78 more annually on similarly valued properties.

Median home costs $475 yearly

On Marlboro County's median home value of $74,500, annual property taxes total $475—among the lowest in the state. Those with mortgages pay approximately $697 annually when escrow is included.

Assessment appeals pay off here

Many Marlboro County homeowners never challenge their property assessments, leaving money on the table. Filing an appeal with the county assessor costs nothing and could reduce your tax bill if your home's assessed value exceeds market value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Marlboro County

via CostByCounty

Marlboro's rent burden vs. nation

Marlboro County residents spend 22.7% of household income on rent, nearly matching Marion County's squeeze and surpassing South Carolina's 20.1% average. With median income at $36,293—just under half the national median—Marlboro renters face above-average affordability stress despite modest rent prices.

Marlboro's affordability standing

At 22.7% rent-to-income, Marlboro ranks among South Carolina's least affordable counties, second only to Marion at 23.1%. The county's $686 median rent falls well short of the state average of $945, but income constraints are the limiting factor.

Marlboro in the Pee Dee cluster

Marlboro's $686 rent sits between Marion's $663 and McCormick's $666, but household income of $36,293 is the second-lowest in this cluster after Marion. Renters here face similar income-affordability pressures as Marion while paying slightly more for housing.

Costs across renting and owning

Marlboro renters pay $686/month while homeowners spend $424/month on a median home valued at $74,500—among the state's lowest. Despite owning being cheaper, the barrier is saving for a down payment on $36,293 annual income.

Marlboro: affordable but tight

Marlboro offers some of South Carolina's cheapest housing, but wage growth is the real opportunity gap here—median income trails most peer counties by $20,000+. Job seekers should look for employers offering above-county-average compensation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Marlboro County

via IncomeByCounty

Marlboro income gap widens vs. nation

Marlboro County's median household income of $36,293 falls 51% short of the national median of $74,755, reflecting persistent economic challenges in this rural region. Families here earn roughly $38,000 less annually than U.S. households, constraining access to education, healthcare, and asset-building opportunities.

Marlboro ranks lowest in South Carolina

Marlboro County holds the lowest median household income among all 46 South Carolina counties at $36,293, nearly $21,000 below the state average of $57,006. This distinction underscores the county's economic distress and its need for targeted workforce and business development strategies.

Marlboro slightly edges Marion in earnings

Marlboro's $36,293 median income edges Marion County ($34,501) but trails Orangeburg County ($43,214), reflecting similar rural economic patterns across southeastern South Carolina. All three counties cluster well below state and national benchmarks, suggesting regional structural challenges.

Rent still strains household finances here

Marlboro's rent-to-income ratio of 22.7% sits above the recommended 20% threshold, consuming nearly a quarter of median income for renting families. A median home value of $74,500 offers affordable homeownership, yet the low median income makes down payments and mortgage qualification challenging for many.

Marlboro residents: invest in skills and assets

With median income at $36,293, Marlboro workers benefit most from investing in career development and vocational training that raises earning potential. Automating even $25 monthly into a savings account builds emergency reserves and demonstrates creditworthiness for future mortgage and business lending.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Marlboro County

via CrimeByCounty

Significant Gaps in National Safety Comparisons

Marlboro County faces a total crime rate of 3,727.7 per 100K, far surpassing the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 94.1, reflecting challenges in local public safety metrics.

Ranked Below the State Safety Average

At 94.1, Marlboro County's safety score is lower than the South Carolina average of 95.4. Local agencies report a crime environment that is more active than many other regions in the state.

A Higher Crime Profile than Neighbors

Marlboro’s crime rate of 3,727.7 is roughly 27% higher than the statewide average of 2,920.8. This positioning makes it one of the more active areas for law enforcement in the Pee Dee region.

Violent Crime Rates are notably Elevated

The violent crime rate of 970.5 per 100K is nearly three times the national average of 369.8. Property crime also remains high at 2,757.2, suggesting a broad range of safety challenges for residents.

Strengthening Community and Home Defense

With high violent and property crime figures, investing in secure entry points and neighborhood watch programs is vital. Residents should maintain close contact with the 10 local reporting agencies for updates.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Marlboro County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Compact District Serving 3,500 Students

Marlboro County manages a compact network of seven public schools, including five elementary, one middle, and one high school. A single school district oversees the entire enrollment of 3,549 students. This high concentration of elementary schools highlights a strong focus on early childhood and primary education.

Navigating Challenges in Academic Results

Marlboro County faces some performance hurdles, with a graduation rate of 78.0% and a composite school score of 45.1. Per-pupil expenditure is currently $6,011, which falls below the state average of $7,165 and the national benchmark of $13,000. These metrics indicate a system working to improve outcomes while operating on a leaner budget than many neighbors.

The Marlboro 01 District Focus

Marlboro 01 is the county's only school district, providing a unified path for all 3,549 local students. There are no charter schools within the county, meaning all public education is delivered through traditional district-run campuses. The district's flagship is Marlboro County High, which serves over 1,000 students.

Personalized Learning in a Rural Mix

Schools are set in a mix of rural and town locales, with an average school size of 507 students. Marlboro County High is the largest campus by far with 1,047 students, while Wallace Elementary/Middle offers a more intimate setting for 432 pupils. This layout ensures students transition from smaller primary schools into a larger, centralized high school environment.

Settle Near Dedicated Local Schools

Families looking for a close-knit community will find Marlboro County's unified district approachable and easy to navigate. School quality is a vital factor in any real estate decision, and living near the primary schools in Bennettsville or McColl offers convenient access for young families. Use local school data to help guide your next home purchase in the region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Marlboro County

via RiskByCounty

Marlboro has relatively low national disaster risk

Marlboro County scores 57.47 on the composite risk scale, well below the national average and below South Carolina's state average of 70.75. This relatively low standing reflects the county's generally modest exposure to most natural hazards, though hurricane risk remains a regional concern.

Marlboro ranks in the safer half of SC

Marlboro County ranks in the lower half of South Carolina's 46 counties for overall disaster risk, placing it among the safer communities in the state. Only a handful of counties, like McCormick, face significantly lower composite risk.

Marlboro is safer than Marion but closer to McCormick

With a composite score of 57.47, Marlboro sits between its high-risk neighbor Marion County (80.69) and the very safe McCormick County (9.54). Marlboro's 88.24 hurricane risk is notably lower than Marion's 94.79, reflecting differences in coastal exposure and geographic positioning.

Wildfires and tornadoes are top concerns

Marlboro faces equal wildfire and tornado risks, both scoring 73.66, making these the county's most significant hazards. Hurricane risk (88.24) rounds out the top three, though it remains below Marion County's extreme exposure.

Focus on wind and fire protection

Marlboro residents should prioritize homeowner's insurance that covers wind damage, given the county's 88.24 hurricane risk and 73.66 tornado exposure. Wildfire protection and defensible space around homes are equally important due to the 73.66 wildfire risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Marlboro County

via WaterByCounty

Marlboro County Maintains Flawless Water Quality Grade

Marlboro County achieves a Grade A for drinking water compliance with zero health violations recorded in the EPA SDWIS system. This performance far exceeds the state average violation rate of 22.2 per 100,000 people. Residents can trust that local utilities are consistently meeting all federal safety standards.

Bacteria Levels Challenge Local Watershed Health

In the 2022 assessment cycle, two of the county’s four assessed water bodies failed to meet Clean Water Act standards. High levels of E. coli are the primary cause of these impairments, affecting 50% of the monitored local waterways. This exceeds the statewide impairment average of 42.6%, signaling a need for better runoff management.

Focused Monitoring Efforts Track Water Chemistry

State and federal agencies maintain three monitoring sites in Marlboro County, recording 1,030 measurements over the past five years. Data collection focuses on physical traits, nutrients, and metals to detect potential contamination. This targeted footprint ensures consistent tracking of the county's most vital water characteristics.

Pee Dee River Discharge Remains Critically Low

The USGS gauge near Bennettsville shows the Pee Dee River is flowing at 2,200 cfs, which is just 28% of its typical long-term volume. This significant drop in discharge reflects a broader regional trend of dry conditions across the 7,780 square mile drainage area. Such low flows often result in slower water movement and increased temperature.

Monitor Runoff and Recreational Water Safety

Because E. coli is a known issue in half of the county's assessed waters, caution is advised during recreational activities in local streams. The low river flow currently amplifies the impact of any existing contaminants by reducing natural dilution. Residents should support local initiatives aimed at reducing agricultural and urban runoff into the Pee Dee basin.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Marlboro County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Temperatures and Low Rainfall

Marlboro County averages 63.4°F annually, making it much warmer than the typical U.S. county. Its precipitation of 41.7 inches is slightly higher than the national average but relatively low for a Southern county.

Exceeding the State Temperature Average

Marlboro's 63.4°F average is higher than the state mean of 62.8°F. It is one of the drier counties in the state, receiving about 7 inches less rain than the South Carolina average of 48.9 inches.

Warmer and Drier than Marion County

Marlboro County is nearly a degree warmer on average than neighboring Marion County. It also receives nearly 10 inches less rain than Marion, making it a drier alternative in the Pee Dee region.

Lengthy Summer Heat and Mild Winters

The county experiences 62 days of extreme heat each year, with July temperatures averaging a hot 81.2°F. Winters are comfortably mild, averaging 46.7°F with no significant recorded snowfall.

Managing Heat without the Humidity

Residents should prepare for 62 days of 90°F weather with sun-blocking curtains and high-efficiency fans. Because the county is drier than average, landscaping may require more supplemental watering during the hot summer months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Marlboro County

via SoilByCounty

Spodosols of the coastal plain

Marlboro County is characterized by Spodosols with an acidic pH of 5.17. This acidity level sits below the state average of 5.27 and is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5.

Sand-dominant soil structure

This soil is classified as Sand, consisting of 73.7% sand, 15.0% silt, and 10.0% clay. The high sand percentage allows for excellent aeration but means the soil has less natural ability to hold onto water.

Competitive organic matter

Organic matter stands at 1.90%, which is nearly on par with the state average of 2.05%. The available water capacity is 0.100 in/in, indicating a need for consistent irrigation during dry South Carolina summers.

Poorly drained despite sandy texture

The soil is classified as poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group A/D. This suggests that while the top layers are sandy, a high water table or restrictive subsurface layer can lead to seasonal saturation.

Ready for zone 8a gardening

Hardiness zone 8a is perfect for growing southern favorites like blueberries and pecans that tolerate acidic conditions. Despite a soil score of 17.3, focused soil amendments can create a highly productive backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Marlboro County

via LawnByCounty

Marlboro Outperforms State Average for Lawn Ease

Marlboro County earns a lawn difficulty score of 39.8, making it easier to maintain than the South Carolina average of 35.1. While still below the national median of 50.0, this Zone 8a county offers a relatively stable environment for traditional southern turf.

Balanced Rainfall and Moderate Heat Stress

The county averages 41.7 inches of rain annually, falling perfectly within the ideal range of 30-50 inches for healthy grass growth. Although there are 62 extreme heat days, the 5,548 growing degree days indicate a robust growing season that supports strong turf development.

Poor Drainage in Sandy Marlboro Soils

While the soil is 73.7% sand, it is classified as poorly drained, which can lead to root rot if overwatered. With a pH of 5.17, you should plan on regular soil testing and lime treatments to correct the high acidity and improve nutrient uptake.

Severe Drought Requires Water Conservation

Marlboro is currently facing severe drought across 100% of its area after 25 weeks of dry conditions last year. Focus on water conservation by using mulch in landscape beds and adjusting your mower height to leave grass longer, which helps shade the soil and retain moisture.

Target Late March for New Growth

Bermuda and Zoysia grasses thrive in Marlboro's 8a hardiness zone and sandy texture. Plan to start your lawn projects after the last spring frost on March 26th to give your grass a strong start before the peak summer heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marlboro County's county score?
Marlboro County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 39.8 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 Marlboro County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Marlboro County ranks #32 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 Marlboro County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Marlboro County is $475, with an effective tax rate of 0.64%. This earns Marlboro County a tax score of 70.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Marlboro County?
The median household income in Marlboro County, South Carolina is $36,293 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Marlboro County earns an income score of 1.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Marlboro County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Marlboro County scores 39.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Marlboro 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 Marlboro County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.