Exploring Senior Demographics of South Carolina

Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Rachel

Introduction: A Glimpse into the Palmetto State

South Carolina, known for its southern charm, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, is home to a diverse and growing population. As we delve into the American Community Survey 2022 Census data focusing on seniors aged 65 and over, we gain insights into the unique characteristics and demographics that shape the lives of the elderly in the Palmetto State.

Population (Sex and Age, Race): Unveiling the Diversity of Senior Citizens

South Carolina boasts a total population of 5,282,634, with a significant senior demographic constituting 19.09% of the total populace. Within this senior population, 44.6% are male, while 55.4% are female, reflecting a slightly higher representation of women. The median age stands at 73.1 years, portraying a mature and experienced senior community.

Racial diversity is a hallmark of South Carolina’s senior population, with 97.4% identifying with one race. White seniors make up 75.6%, followed by 19.7% Black or African American, 0.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1% Asian, and 0.8% belonging to some other race. The tapestry of South Carolina’s senior community is further enriched by 2.6% identifying with two or more races, highlighting the state’s cultural mosaic.

Relationship and Households: Examining Social Structures

Within households, the majority of the senior population, 91.7%, are either householders or spouses, showcasing the prevalence of familial ties. Only 3.2% are parents, while 3.0% are other relatives, and 2.1% are nonrelatives, including unmarried partners (1.0%).

South Carolina’s households, numbering 627,361, reveal a blend of family and nonfamily units. Family households account for 57.8%, with a dominant presence of married-couple families (46.4%) and female householders with no spouse present (9.0%). Nonfamily households, comprising 42.2%, are predominantly led by individuals living alone (39.5%).

Marital and Educational Status: A Spectrum of Experiences

Marital status among seniors is diverse, with 58.8% currently married, 21.8% widowed, 13.0% divorced, 1.2% separated, and 5.3% never married. This array of marital experiences reflects the varied life journeys within South Carolina’s senior community.

Educational attainment is another facet of diversity, as 11.7% have less than a high school diploma, 30.6% are high school graduates, 27.9% have completed some college or earned an associate’s degree, and 29.8% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. This educational spectrum underscores the intellectual richness within the senior population.

Responsibility for Grandchildren, Veteran Status, and Disability: Understanding Additional Dimensions

A noteworthy 3.8% of seniors in South Carolina live with their grandchildren, with 1.3% shouldering the responsibility for them. This underscores the intergenerational dynamics within families.

Veteran status reveals that 16.6% of seniors are civilian veterans, reflecting the state’s historical connection to military service.

Examining disability status, 32.2% of the civilian noninstitutionalized population experiences some form of disability, emphasizing the importance of healthcare and support systems in the senior community.

Language Status: Navigating Linguistic Diversity

The linguistic landscape of South Carolina’s senior community is predominantly English, with 95.9% speaking only English at home. However, 4.1% converse in languages other than English, with 1.6% indicating that they speak English less than “very well,” highlighting the linguistic diversity present.

As we unravel the intricate details of South Carolina’s senior demographic, it becomes evident that the state’s elderly population is a mosaic of experiences, cultures, and contributions. The data lays the foundation for a deeper understanding of the evolving needs and dynamics within this vital segment of the Palmetto State’s populace

Employment Status: Balancing Work and Retirement

Within South Carolina’s senior population of 1,008,618, the employment landscape reveals that 17.0% are in the labor force. Of this group, 16.6% are employed, showcasing a significant portion of seniors actively contributing to the workforce. The unemployment rate is low at 0.4%, reflecting a resilient and engaged senior labor force.

Income Status: A Multifaceted Financial Portrait

Households, numbering 627,361, provide a glimpse into the economic well-being of South Carolina’s seniors. Earnings play a role for 36.0% of these households, with a mean earnings value of $60,672, underscoring financial diversity among seniors. Social Security income, a critical component, supports 90.8% of households, with a mean income of $24,915. Additionally, 6.1% receive Supplemental Security Income, averaging $11,015, while 0.8% benefit from cash public assistance, averaging $2,893. Retirement income is a significant financial pillar for 58.0% of households, with a mean value of $30,463. The safety net of Food Stamp/SNAP benefits aids 7.8% of households, reflecting a reliance on social support systems.

Poverty Status: A Robust Economic Foundation

Among the population for whom poverty status is determined (990,095), 10.5% fall below 100 percent of the poverty level, 9.7% fall within the 100 to 149 percent range, and 79.9% stand at or above 150 percent of the poverty level. This economic resilience is a testament to the financial stability of a significant majority of seniors in South Carolina.

Housing Status: Sheltering Seniors in the Palmetto State

Housing tenure offers insights into the living arrangements of South Carolina’s seniors. Owner-occupied housing units dominate at 84.2%, indicating a preference for homeownership among seniors. In contrast, 15.8% reside in renter-occupied housing units. The average household size varies, with owner-occupied units at 1.92 and renter-occupied units at 1.62, portraying distinct preferences in housing arrangements.

Selected Characteristics: A Closer Look at Housing Conditions

In terms of selected characteristics, 1.0% of occupied housing units lack telephone service, highlighting the near-universal connectivity of seniors. The standard of living is notable, with only 0.4% experiencing 1.01 or more occupants per room, indicative of comfortable housing conditions.

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: A Peek into Homeownership

The majority of owner-occupied units (78.4%) allocate less than 30 percent of household income to monthly costs, emphasizing financial prudence. Conversely, 21.6% allocate 30 percent or more. Key owner characteristics include a median value of $243,000 and median selected monthly costs with a mortgage at $1,220, while those without a mortgage incur a median cost of $403.

Renter-Occupied Housing Units: A Snapshot of Rental Realities

For renter-occupied units, 47.4% allocate less than 30 percent of household income to gross rent, while 52.6% allocate 30 percent or more. The median gross rent stands at $976, reflecting the diverse rental landscape for seniors in South Carolina.

Conclusion: Crafting a Comprehensive Portrait of South Carolina’s Seniors

As we merge the intricate details from both parts of our exploration, a comprehensive portrait of South Carolina’s seniors emerges. This diverse community, with its rich racial tapestry, varied family structures, and multifaceted economic and housing dynamics, contributes significantly to the cultural and social fabric of the Palmetto State. The data reflects not only the challenges faced by some seniors but also the resilience, diversity, and adaptability that characterize this vital demographic.

Understanding the nuances of South Carolina’s senior population is crucial for policymakers, community leaders, and service providers to tailor support systems that address specific needs. The data serves as a compass, guiding initiatives to enhance the quality of life for seniors, ensuring they thrive in their communities.

As we continue to explore and interpret the evolving landscape of senior statistics, it is an invitation to appreciate the contributions, experiences, and stories that define South Carolina’s ageing population. Stay tuned for further insights and analyses, uncovering the multifaceted dimensions of senior life in the Palmetto State.