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    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. South Carolina
    2. Saluda County

    Major cities or towns:

    Ridge Spring
    Saluda County, South Carolina is a rural county located in the western part of the state. The geography is characterized by rolling hills and fertile farmland, with a warm, humid climate typical of the region. The population is around 20,000, with a demographic makeup that is predominantly white and aging. The economy is centered around agriculture, manufacturing, and small businesses, offering a mix of employment opportunities, though the job market can be limited. The cost of living is relatively low, with affordable housing options, but the housing market can be tight. The public education system provides K-12 schooling, while higher education options are limited to a few community colleges nearby. Healthcare services are available, but access to specialized care may require travel to larger cities. Cultural attractions are sparse, but the area offers ample outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. The transportation infrastructure is adequate, with access to major highways, though public transit is limited. Crime rates are generally low, contributing to a safe, tight-knit community vibe, though economic challenges can present social issues. Overall, Saluda County offers a quiet, rural lifestyle, well-suited for those seeking an affordable, small-town atmosphere, but may lack the amenities and economic opportunities of more urban areas.

    Demographics

    Population

    20K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    58
    Black
    25
    Asian
    unknown
    Hispanic
    15

    Median Age

    41.8

    Density

    3 of 10

    44 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.1

    Religious

    50%

    Foreign Born

    5%

    Veterans

    8.7%

    Adult Smokers

    22%

    Adult Obesity

    42%

    Uninsured

    21%

    Excessive Drinking

    18%

    Poverty Rate

    14.6%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    5.5 hours winter dailyMostly sunny

    Summer average temp

    93°F

    Winter max temp

    56°F

    Precipitation

    46 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    1.2 (low)

    Drought risk

    Low

    Earthquake risk

    Low

    Wildfire risk

    Very Low

    Tornado risk

    Moderate

    Hurricane risk

    Low

    Crime

    Rank: 3.0 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    4 (2.5)

    Property

    4 (16)

    Assault

    4 (2.0)

    Larceny (theft)

    3 (9)

    Robbery

    2 (0.2)

    Burglary

    5 (5.8)

    Rape

    3 (0.25)

    Auto Theft

    3 (1.1)

    Murder

    1 (0.00)

    Arson

    3 (0.15)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    37%

    Politics and Law

    State politics

    Red (Republican)

    Abortion laws

    Legal before cardiac cell

    Marijuana laws

    Illegal

    Gun Laws

    Permit required for open and concealed carry

    Democrat

    32%

    Republican

    66%

    State Tax Burden

    7.45%

    Cigarette Tax

    $0.57

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $44,503

    Unemployment

    2.4%

    Employment

    55.5%

    Hours worked

    40

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    4 / 10

    Water Area

    2.01%

    Near park?

    61%

    Beaches

    1-3 hours

    Mountains

    1-3 hours

    Tree Area

    70%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    72%

    Median Home Price

    $182K

    Average Rent

    $661

    Internet over 25mbps

    77%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    unknown

    Cycling

    unknown

    Public Transit

    unknown

    Major Airport

    >2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    31

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    1 of 10  

    (avg: -0.36)

    College graduates

    17%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    unknown

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown