Looking for a small town with Southern hospitality? Then living in Lancaster SC may be a dream come true.
Nicknamed, The Lancaster is known for its proud Southern history as the birthplace of President Andrew Jackson. It’s a city in Lancaster County, South Carolina, and the county seat of Lancaster County.
Scots-Irish settlers from Pennsylvania founded the town in the 1750’s. The county was formed in 1785, and it was named after England’s House of Lancaster.
Today, Lancaster is a good place to live for anyone seeking an affordable community with easy access to Charlotte. Planning on moving to Lancaster, South Carolina? Here is everything you need to know before making the transition.
Table of Contents
Where Is Lancaster SC?
Lancaster is in Lancaster County in north-central South Carolina, just south of Charlotte NC in the Piedmont area.
Lancaster offers residents several transportation options to nearby cities such as Charlotte, Columbia, and York. It’s situated near the intersection of US Highway 521 and South Carolina Highway 200, providing a direct route to Charlotte for commuters living in Lancaster SC.
It’s also surrounded by natural beauty, including the Catawba River and Andrew Jackson State Park, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
It’s 48 miles from Lancaster SC to Charlotte NC.
Lancaster SC Population and Demographics
The Lancaster population is 8,738 residents. The number of people living in Lancaster SC has remained relatively consistent in recent years, decreasing slightly by 0.8% between 2010 and 2020, following a 4.3% increase in the previous decade. It has a population density of 1,228.8 residents per square mile.
Lancaster is a diverse community that’s popular among families, with a strong population of retirees. 23% of residents living in Lancaster SC are under 18, and 18% are 65 and over. It has a sizable population of white, black, and Hispanic residents.
The racial and ethnic breakdown is 36% white, 46% Black or African American, 14% Hispanic, 1% Asian, and 2% two or more races. Andrew Jackson, the 7th President of the United States, is the most famous former Lancaster resident. Other notable people known for living in Lancaster SC include NBA player Sindarius Thornwell and Astronaut Charles Duke.
Other Lancaster demographics
- The median household income is $43,234, which is about 33% lower than the rest of South Carolina.
- 54% of people living in Lancaster SC are women, and 46% are men
- 78.3% of people living in Lancaster SC have a high school diploma, and 17.3% have a bachelor’s degree or higher
- The median age is 38.2 years old.
- The foreign-born population is 10.6%
In general, most residents say that living in Lancaster SC is safe. However, the area does suffer from some social problems, such as poverty and gang problems.
Queens City News, a local Charlotte publication, has stated that crime in the community has decreased significantly in recent years, following a $1.8 million, 3-year grant to address gang and gun violence. Many residents report that there are many safe areas in the community. Although the crime rate in Lancaster remains high compared to the national average. Here is a breakdown:
- Total Lancaster crime rate: 7,243 crimes per 100,000 people, 242% higher than the national average
- Violent crime: 1,064 crimes per 100,000 people, 196% higher than the national average
- Property crime: 1,760 crimes per 100,000 people, 251% higher than the national average
So be sure to exercise caution if you plan on moving to Lancaster South Carolina. The Lancaster Police Department handles crime in the community with the support of a large law enforcement staff.
Lancaster SC Cost of Living
The cost of living in Lancaster SC is very affordable. A great way to assess the cost of living in a community is to analyze the cost-of-living index. It compares the prices of regular consumer goods to the rest of the US, which is represented by 100.
The COLI for the Charlotte area is 101, which indicates it’s about 1% more expensive than the typical US city. However, living in Lancaster SC is even more affordable due to its rural atmosphere and affordable housing prices. The Economic Research Institute suggests that the cost of living in Lancaster SC is closer to 13% lower than the rest of the country.
The Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator is also a great resource. It shows that the typical family of four with two adults and two kids would need to earn $99,677 to afford the cost of living in Lancaster SC.
Typical expenses of living in Lancaster, SC
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $18.00
- Gallon of milk: $0.78
- 12 oz bottle of water: $1.97
- 1 dozen regular eggs: $5.50
- Mid-range bottle of wine: $12.99
- Regular cappuccino: $5.33
- 1 liter of gasoline: $0.71
- 1 dozen regular eggs: $5.50
- Average Lancaster SC utilities per month: $145.96
Source: Numbeo
*Numbers reflect the nearby city of Rock Hill but will be similar for those living in Lancaster SC.
Lancaster, SC, real estate is very affordable, which contributes to its lower cost of living. According to Redfin, the median price of homes for sale in Lancaster SC, is $256,400, which is 41% lower than the median in the rest of the state. Also, don’t forget to account for the low taxes South Carolina residents enjoy.
Many people living in Lancaster SC are renters. Census data shows that 56% of Lancaster real estate is rented out and 44% is owner-occupied.
Rent prices are also very affordable. According to RentCafe, the average rent in Lancaster SC is $932, and the average apartment size is 1,074 square feet. Rent prices start around $932 for two bedrooms and go up to $1,051 for 3 bedrooms.
Lancaster Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Lancaster
Lancaster is a relatively small city and doesn’t have well-defined neighborhoods like a larger urban area. But it does feature a few notable communities and subdivisions.
Downtown Lancaster is a historic area and the city’s primary commercial hub, featuring preserved buildings, quaint shops, and a strong community feel.
There are also plenty of desirable new developments and retirement communities in northern Lancaster County, such as Bratton Point or Sun City 55+. In general, the most desirable homes among those living in Lancaster SC are in the center of the city, while the most affordable are in the east.
Lancaster Weather & Climate
Lancaster, SC, weather is mild year-round. It features a humid subtropical climate, which suggests hot summers and mild winters. The temperatures usually range from 32°F to 90°F, but can drop as low as 19°F in winter and reach 97°F in summer.
Your best bet for visiting someone living in Lancaster SC is either from April to June or August to October. Snow is rare, though it averages about 2 inches per year. However, it gets 44 inches of rain. So bring an umbrella if you’re moving to Lancaster South Carolina.
Things to Do in Lancaster
Looking for fun things to do in Lancaster? Although it tends to be peaceful and laidback, you’ll still find plenty of fun things to do in the nearby areas. You’ll find a variety of shopping options at the Lancaster Square Shopping Center or The Shops on Main. The Charlotte Premium Outlets is also close by if you’re looking for discount prices on brand-name retailers. Other than shopping, here are a few of the best things to do in Lancaster.
Lancaster County Recreation
The County Recreation Area is a local neighborhood event hall and community center for residents living in Lancaster SC offering a running track, baseball fields, a playground, picnic areas, and more.
260 State Rd S-29-527, Lancaster, SC 29720 (803) 285-5545
Lancaster Motor Speedway
One of the best things to do in Lancaster with kids, the Lancaster Motor Speedway is “the fastest half-mile dirt track in the south,” and hosts car racing and monster truck shows.
223 Shiloh Unity Rd, Lancaster, SC 29720 (803) 285-1877
Andrew Jackson State Park
Andrew Jackson State Park is a 360-acre park, one of the best things to do in Lancaster SC, for outdoor enthusiasts with campgrounds, picnic facilities, a fishing lake, and an 18th-century replica schoolhouse.
196 Andrew Jackson Park Rd, Lancaster, SC 29720 (803) 285-3344
Additional Lancaster Attractions
- Lancaster Bowling Center
- Independence Park
- Landsford Canal State Park
- Mile Creek Trail
- Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve
Searching for more Lancaster family attractions? The Lancaster SC Parks and Recreation Department has a list of after-school programs, facilities, and rentals on its website.
Lancaster Restaurants
Hungry for a bite to eat while living in Lancaster SC? Lancaster SC restaurants offer everything from barbecue to comfort food. Here are some of the best places to eat in Lancaster.
Smokin’ Rail
Smokin Rail is one of the best restaurants in Lancaster, SC, if you’re craving burgers, burritos, brisket, or tacos with live music and delicious cocktails.
1712 Steel Hill Rd, Lancaster, SC 29720 (803) 285-7245
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The Vineyard Table
The Vineyard Table is the dining section of the Lauranita Vineyard and Winery, a local vineyard serving seasonal plates like crab cakes and chicken gnocchi.
3341 Taxahaw Rd, Lancaster, SC 29720 (803) 203-7565
SAMBOS
SAMBOS is a local roadside grill and one of the best restaurants in Lancaster if you want sandwiches, burgers, and other classic comfort food served with cold beer.
SC-903, Lancaster, SC 29720 (803) 285-6113
Jobs in Lancaster
You’ll find a wide range of jobs in Lancaster, SC. The city and broader county are home to a diverse range of businesses in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and financial services.
Within the city itself, employment for workers living in Lancaster SC is primarily in food services and manufacturing. However, the County is home to a broader mix of businesses, such as agriculture and mining. It’s also a short drive to Charlotte, which is home to seven Fortune 500 companies.
Major employers providing Lancaster SC jobs:
Workers living in Lancaster SC can expect adequate compensation. Payscale suggests that the average salary in the Charlotte area is $81,000 per year. From SEO specialist to litigation attorney, you can find plenty of great Lancaster jobs available. Likewise, you can also find great job opportunities in Lancaster County.
Lancaster Schools
Kids living in Lancaster SC will get a quality education. The Lancaster School District consists of 11 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 4 high schools. Schools in the district generally perform above average, and it features notable elementary schools like Harrisburg and Indian Land.
The four high schools in Lancaster County are:
- Lancaster High School
- Andrew Jackson High School
- Indian Land High School
- Buford High School
Indian Land is generally considered the best of all the high schools in Lancaster SC, and ranks 52nd in the state with a 91% AP participation rate. Carolina Christian Academy is a notable private school in the city. It’s also home to USC Lancaster, one of four colleges that make up Palmetto College in the University of South Carolina System. Residents living in Lancaster SC can also check out the local branch of the Lancaster County Library System for books and other media.
Lancaster Statistics & Information
- Lancaster County: Lancaster County
- Lancaster area: 6.89 square miles
- Lancaster zip code: 29720-29722
- Lancaster area code: 803 and 839
- Lancaster elevation: 449 ft
- Lancaster time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4 and -5)
- Closest airport to Lancaster: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is 48 miles away.
Lancaster FAQ
What Is the Nicest Part of Lancaster to Live in?
The nicest part of Lancaster is subject to debate. Downtown Lancaster is a popular area due to its historic charm. Newer developments in neighboring communities, such as Indian Land and Fort Mill, also offer modern appeal and lower crime.
What Is the Median Household Income in Lancaster?
The median household income in Lancaster is $43,234, about half the median in the rest of the Charlotte area and about 33% lower than the rest of South Carolina. The per capita income for people living in Lancaster SC is $30,084, which is about 20% lower than the rest of South Carolina and 33% lower than the rest of the Charlotte area.
What Is Lancaster Known for?
Lancaster is famous for its historic significance as the birthplace of Andrew Jackson, its Civil War sites, and its Robert Mills architecture. It’s also known for its connection to the Catawba Nation Native American tribe, who were once living in Lancaster SC.
Map of Lancaster SC
Explore more activities, attractions, and fun things to do in Lancaster with this map.
Thinking About Moving to Lancaster South Carolina?
Ready to discover everything that living in Lancaster SC has to offer? When you’re ready to make your moving experience easy and efficient, you can trust the dependable Lancaster SC movers at Make a Move to ensure your moving day is as easy and efficient as possible. Call (704) 378-8588 today for a free quote.
