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Saluda County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#5 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
50.1
County Score
Property Tax 78.2Cost of Living 73.7Disaster Risk 59.9

County Report Card

About Saluda County, South Carolina

Saluda County Aligns with National Medians

Saluda edges out the national median score of 50.0 with a composite score of 50.1. It sits right in the middle of the national distribution, outperforming roughly half of all U.S. counties.

Outperforming the South Carolina Average

Within the state, Saluda performs significantly better than the average South Carolina county. Its 50.1 score comfortably beats the state-wide average of 42.8.

Exceptional Tax and Housing Affordability

Financial breathing room defines the county, with high marks in Tax (78.2) and Cost (73.7). A low effective tax rate of 0.568% pairs with affordable housing where median rent is just $814.

Educational and Income Hurdles

The School score lags at 15.1, suggesting a need for local educational investment. Low Income scores of 20.6 reflect a median household income of $52,957, which trails behind more urbanized neighbors.

A Value-Forward Choice for Quiet Living

Saluda suits budget-conscious families who prioritize low taxes and affordable housing over local school rankings. It offers a balanced, middle-of-the-road lifestyle with a very low entry price.

Score breakdown

Tax78.2Cost73.7Safety54Health32.7Schools15.1Income20.6Risk59.9Water24.2Weather51.2
🏛78.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼20.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡54
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤32.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓15.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡59.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧24.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨21
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.6
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Saluda County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Saluda County

via TaxByCounty

Saluda's taxes rank low nationally

At 0.568%, Saluda's effective tax rate runs well below the national median of 0.86%, placing the county in roughly the bottom 30% of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax here is just $700 annually—just 26% of the national median of $2,690.

Slightly above South Carolina average

Saluda's 0.568% rate sits just above the state average of 0.542%, ranking it in the middle of South Carolina's 46 counties. The county collects a median of $700 compared to the statewide median of $939.

Right in line with rural SC peers

Saluda's rate matches closely with Union County (0.558%) and Sumter County (0.539%), but lags behind Spartanburg County's 0.563% and Williamsburg County's 0.662%. Among this rural cluster, Saluda offers a moderate tax environment.

Own a typical Saluda home?

With a median home value of $123,200, the typical Saluda homeowner pays about $700 annually in property taxes. That comes to roughly $58 per month—or $1,053 if your mortgage includes escrow.

Check if you're overassessed

Many South Carolina homeowners discover their properties are assessed above fair market value, making them eligible for a tax appeal at no cost. If you believe your $123,200 home is overvalued, Saluda's assessor's office can review your case.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Saluda County

via CostByCounty

Saluda rents rank below national burden

At 18.4%, Saluda County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national standard, meaning renters here spend less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. The county's median gross rent of $814 per month is notably affordable compared to the national median household income of $74,755.

Among SC's most affordable counties

Saluda County ranks favorably within South Carolina, where the state average rent-to-income ratio is 20.1%—and Saluda beats that mark at 18.4%. Its median rent of $814 runs $131 below the statewide average of $945, signaling genuine affordability in a state context.

Saluda stands out in the upstate cluster

Compared to nearby Spartanburg County ($1,019 median rent) and Sumter County ($1,006 median rent), Saluda offers noticeably cheaper rental options at $814 per month. The county's median home value of $123,200 also trails Spartanburg's $216,000, making it a budget-friendly option in the region.

Housing costs fit comfortably in Saluda budgets

Saluda renters pay $814 monthly while homeowners spend $561 on mortgage costs, all supported by a median household income of $52,957. Together, housing expenses consume roughly 22% of household income for renters—tight but manageable compared to national norms.

Saluda offers rare affordability in SC

If you're relocating to South Carolina on a modest budget, Saluda County delivers some of the state's lowest rents and home values. Compare its $814 monthly rent and $123,200 median home price against neighboring counties to see why affordability-conscious movers are taking notice.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Saluda County

via IncomeByCounty

Saluda lags behind national income

Saluda County's median household income of $52,957 falls 29% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it well below the national standard. This gap reflects broader economic challenges in rural South Carolina relative to national trends.

Below average for South Carolina

At $52,957, Saluda's median household income ranks below the state average of $57,006, positioning it in the lower tier among South Carolina's 46 counties. The county's per capita income of $29,590 also trails the state average of $32,382.

Saluda versus nearby counties

Saluda's $52,957 median income sits between Union County ($41,200) to the north and Sumter County ($55,990) to the south. The county performs better than its western neighbors but lags Spartanburg County ($64,195) to the northwest.

Housing remains affordable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 18.4%, Saluda households dedicate well under the 30% affordability threshold, making housing costs sustainable relative to local incomes. The median home value of $123,200 aligns reasonably with household earning power in the county.

Building wealth in Saluda County

Saluda residents benefit from affordable housing and can prioritize savings and investment over high rent burdens. Starting an emergency fund or exploring low-cost investment options through employer retirement plans can help families build long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Saluda County

via CrimeByCounty

Saluda outperforms national safety trends

The county's total crime rate of 1,039.4 per 100K residents is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. With a safety score of 98.4, Saluda remains significantly more secure than the typical American county.

Safety reaches well above state averages

Saluda’s safety score of 98.4 far exceeds the South Carolina average of 95.4. This performance distinguishes the county as one of the state's safer jurisdictions for both residents and visitors.

Leading the way among regional neighbors

Saluda’s crime rate is considerably lower than Spartanburg’s 2,747.5 or Union’s 3,788.9. The local community maintains a much stronger safety profile than these larger adjacent counties.

Low violent and property crime figures

Property crime sits at just 754.5 per 100K, far below the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is similarly low at 284.9, ensuring a secure environment across the county’s nine reporting agencies.

Maintain security in this safe environment

While crime is exceptionally low, basic home security remains a smart practice for every household. Staying vigilant helps Saluda preserve its status as a high-safety community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Saluda County

via HealthByCounty

Saluda lives longer than the nation

At 73.9 years, Saluda County residents live about 5.5 years longer than the U.S. life expectancy of 68.4 years. The county's 19.9% poor or fair health rate sits slightly below the national average of 21%, suggesting a healthier population overall. These gains reflect modest but meaningful progress in Saluda's public health.

Ranking among South Carolina counties

Saluda outpaces South Carolina's state average life expectancy of 72.5 years by 1.4 years, placing it in the upper half of state performers. Its uninsured rate of 14.1% exceeds the state average of 11.6%, however, indicating a coverage gap worth addressing. Overall, Saluda ranks as a mid-tier health performer within its state.

How Saluda stacks up locally

Saluda's life expectancy of 73.9 years trails neighboring Spartanburg County at 73.8 years by a fraction, and falls well behind York County's 76.3 years. The county's primary care capacity of 16 providers per 100,000 residents significantly lags regional peers like Spartanburg (62 per 100K) and Sumter (54 per 100K). Mental health resources are comparatively sparse at 58 per 100,000, the lowest among its neighbors.

Access gaps in daily care

With only 16 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Saluda residents often travel farther for routine checkups and preventive services than those in well-served neighboring counties. The 14.1% uninsured rate means roughly 1 in 7 county residents lack health insurance coverage, creating barriers to regular care. Mental health support at 58 per 100,000 providers is strained, limiting access to counseling and behavioral health services.

Explore your coverage options

If you're among the 14.1% of Saluda residents without health insurance, now is the time to explore your options. Visit HealthCare.gov or contact your local health department to understand marketplace plans, Medicaid eligibility, and community health center services. Getting covered improves your access to preventive care and protects your family from unexpected medical costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Saluda County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Rural Learning Network

Saluda County operates a focused education system consisting of 6 public schools serving 2,833 total students. This infrastructure includes four elementary facilities, one middle school, and one high school, all managed under a single unified district.

Evaluating Performance and Resources

The county reports an 82.0% graduation rate, trailing both the state average of 84.2% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. With a per-pupil expenditure of $6,071, funding remains below the South Carolina average of $7,165 as the county works toward its 47.3 composite school score.

The Central Role of Saluda 01

The Saluda 01 district anchors the county, managing five of the six schools and educating 2,480 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, meaning traditional public schools remain the primary choice for local families.

Small-Town Feel Across Rural Settings

Education here is predominantly rural, with four schools in rural locales and two in town settings. Schools maintain an intimate average size of 472 students, ranging from Saluda High at 652 students to Saluda Elementary at 358.

Find Your Home in Saluda

For families seeking a tight-knit community, exploring homes near Hollywood Elementary or Saluda High is a great starting point. Consider local school quality and the personal attention of smaller class sizes when researching your next move.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Saluda County

via RiskByCounty

Saluda ranks well below national disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 40.14, Saluda County sits in the "Very Low" category—well below the national average. This means residents face comparatively lower exposure to major natural hazards than most American counties.

South Carolina's safest county from disasters

Saluda's 40.14 score ranks it as the lowest-risk county in South Carolina, standing 43 points below the state average of 70.75. Among all South Carolina counties, Saluda offers the most favorable natural disaster risk profile.

Safer than all surrounding Upstate counties

Saluda's risk score of 40.14 dramatically outperforms neighboring Union County (58.21) and Spartanburg County (90.65). Even among regional peers, Saluda residents enjoy substantially lower exposure to tornado, flood, and earthquake hazards.

Earthquakes and hurricanes pose low but real risks

Saluda's top hazards are earthquake risk (66.79) and hurricane risk (75.68), both moderate on the county's overall low-risk profile. Tornado risk (63.96) ranks third, though all three remain well below state averages.

Basic coverage protects Saluda homes effectively

While Saluda's disaster risk is the lowest in the state, standard homeowners insurance remains essential for the county's modest earthquake and hurricane exposure. Consider a conversation with your insurer about earthquake coverage, as standard policies typically exclude it.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Saluda County

via WeatherByCounty

Typical Southern Warmth and Humidity

Saluda County averages 62.2°F annually, which is roughly 8 degrees warmer than the national median. The county receives 46.8 inches of rain, consistent with the humid subtropical patterns of the Southeastern U.S. These conditions support the local agriculture that defines the county's economy.

Consistent With the State Average

Saluda's 62.2°F average temperature sits just below the South Carolina statewide average of 62.8°F. Its precipitation of 46.8 inches is also slightly lower than the state's 48.9-inch average. It effectively represents the baseline climate for the South Carolina Piedmont.

Slightly Cooler Than the Urban Midlands

Saluda is slightly cooler than neighboring Richland County, which averages 63.9°F. It is nearly identical in temperature to Newberry County (62.6°F) but experiences significantly more extreme heat days (76 vs Newberry's 59). This suggests Saluda faces more intense, though perhaps shorter, heat spikes.

Long Summers and Negligible Snow

The county endures 76 days per year of 90°F+ heat, with July averaging 81.4°F. Snow is extremely rare, averaging only 0.4 inches annually. Winters are mild, with average temperatures remaining at 44.7°F through the coldest months.

Focus on Heat Safety and Irrigation

Farmers and residents should prepare for 76 days of extreme heat by ensuring reliable water and cooling access. The 46.8 inches of annual rain is steady, but summer evaporation is high due to the 81.4°F July average. Minimal winter gear is required for the negligible 0.4 inches of snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Saluda County

via SoilByCounty

Loamy Ultisols define the Saluda landscape

Saluda County is dominated by Ultisols with a loam texture and a pH level of 5.44. This acidic profile is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.27, though it remains well below the national median of 6.5.

A balanced mix of sand and silt

The soil composition consists of 47.7% sand, 36.5% silt, and 15.8% clay. This loamy blend provides a stable structure that balances workability with the necessary weight to support crop roots.

Low organic matter but high water storage

The organic matter content sits at 1.20%, which is lower than the South Carolina average of 2.05%. However, the available water capacity of 0.139 in/in exceeds the state benchmark of 0.115, providing a vital reservoir for plants during dry spells.

Managing the challenges of poor drainage

Classified as poorly drained with a C/D hydrologic group rating, these soils struggle to shed excess water. Farmers and builders must account for high water tables that can saturate the ground quickly after heavy rains.

Abundant opportunities in hardiness zone 8a

With its specific soil profile and climate, Saluda is ideal for established local favorites like peaches and timber. Residents are encouraged to start a garden with acid-loving plants like azaleas or blueberries to make the most of the local environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Saluda County

via LawnByCounty

Saluda County Outpaces State Lawn Care Averages

Saluda County earns a lawn difficulty score of 42.6, which is significantly better than the South Carolina average of 35.1. While this indicates easier maintenance than many neighbors, the score remains below the national median of 50.0. This USDA Hardiness Zone 8a region requires specific care to keep grass healthy.

Intense Heat Drives Local Mowing Schedules

The county experiences 76 extreme heat days per year, which is higher than the state average of 63 days. Annual precipitation sits at 46.8 inches, falling within the ideal range for healthy turf development. With 5294 growing degree days, lawns here experience a robust, fast-moving growth cycle throughout the warm months.

Managing Poorly Drained Acidic Loam

Saluda’s soil has a pH of 5.44, which is quite acidic compared to the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for most grasses. The loam texture consists of 47.7% sand and 15.8% clay, but the soil is classified as poorly drained. You will likely need lime applications to raise the pH and aeration to improve water movement.

Battling Severe Drought in Saluda

The county spent 16 weeks in drought over the past year, with 61.3% of the area currently facing severe drought conditions. Every acre of the county is considered abnormally dry right now. Deep, infrequent watering early in the morning is essential to build the root depth needed to survive these periods.

Start Your Saluda Lawn After March

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are ideal for this 8a climate and its high heat levels. Wait until after the last spring frost on March 31 to begin seeding or laying new sod. Proper timing ensures your young grass establishes itself before the July heat peaks.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Saluda County's county score?
Saluda County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 50.1 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 Saluda County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Saluda County ranks #5 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 Saluda County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Saluda County is $700, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns Saluda County a tax score of 78.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Saluda County?
The median household income in Saluda County, South Carolina is $52,957 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Saluda County earns an income score of 20.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Saluda County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Saluda County scores 50.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Saluda 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 Saluda County with other counties side by side.

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