Dorchester County, South Carolina

Income Data

+35% vs. South Carolina average
$76,896
Median Household Income
$37,279
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$76,896
+35% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$37,279
-6% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
26.1%
income as % of home value
Rank in South Carolina
#5 / 46
by median household income

How Dorchester County Compares

Dorchester County$76,896
South Carolina Average$57,006
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$76,896
Median Household Income
$37,279
Per Capita Income
$294,400
Median Home Value
26.1%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Dorchester County, South Carolina

Dorchester exceeds national income levels

Dorchester County's median household income of $76,896 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $2,141, placing it among America's middle-to-upper-income counties. This above-average position reflects a more prosperous community relative to the nation as a whole. Per capita income of $37,279 also outpaces national norms, signaling broad-based economic health.

Second-highest earner in South Carolina

Dorchester ranks second among South Carolina's 46 counties with a median household income 35% above the state average of $57,006. Its per capita income of $37,279 exceeds the state average by 15%, showcasing strong individual earnings. Only a handful of South Carolina counties—mostly in the Upstate—outpace Dorchester's income levels.

Dorchester dominates the Lowcountry

Neighboring Colleton and Berkeley counties record median incomes significantly below Dorchester's $76,896. Charleston County, while prosperous, edges Dorchester slightly in some income metrics but remains a comparable peer. Dorchester's proximity to Charleston's economic center drives its competitive advantage in the region.

Strong income, but housing costs rising

Dorchester's rent-to-income ratio of 21.6% indicates housing consumes just over one-fifth of household income—a manageable but increasing burden. Median home values of $294,400 reflect the county's attractiveness and growth, though they demand significant household resources. Higher incomes here provide cushion, but housing affordability pressures are worth monitoring.

Invest strategically in Dorchester

Dorchester's above-average incomes create ideal conditions for wealth building through investment diversification and retirement planning. Residents should explore employer-sponsored plans, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and real estate opportunities as home equity builds wealth. Consulting a financial advisor can help maximize the wealth-building potential of Dorchester's strong income base.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Dorchester County, South Carolina?
The median household income in Dorchester County, South Carolina is $76,896, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in Dorchester County?
The per capita income in Dorchester County is $37,279, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $76,896.
How does Dorchester County compare to the South Carolina average?
Dorchester County's median household income of $76,896 is higher than the South Carolina state average of $57,006. The per capita income is $37,279, compared to the state average of $32,382.
What is the per capita income in Dorchester County, South Carolina?
The per capita income in Dorchester County, South Carolina is $37,279, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Why is Dorchester County income higher than the South Carolina average?
Dorchester County's median household income of $76,896 is higher than the South Carolina average of $57,006. This difference of $19,890 can be attributed to factors such as local industry mix, proximity to major employment centers, educational attainment levels, and cost of living. Counties with higher incomes often have a greater concentration of professional and technical occupations.
How does Dorchester County rank for income in South Carolina?
Dorchester County ranks #5 out of 46 counties in South Carolina by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $76,896 and per capita income of $37,279, it falls in the top third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in Dorchester County

$
1.00x

Your income is above the Dorchester County median

County median: $76,896 per year

vs. County Median

+0%

vs. State Average

+35%

vs. National Median

+3%

vs. Dorchester County MedianAbout equal
vs. South Carolina Average35% above
vs. National Median3% above

Income Adequacy

Monthly income covers median rent4.6x

Your monthly income ($6,408) vs. median rent ($1,381/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

Sponsored

Grow Your Wealth

See how your income stacks up in Dorchester County, South Carolina? Start investing smarter with a robo-advisor that builds a diversified portfolio for you.

Start Investing

Counties with Similar Income Levels

Sponsored

Compare Financial Products in South Carolina

Compare savings accounts, CDs, and money market rates from top banks to make the most of your earnings.

Compare Rates

Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.