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Barnwell, SC Utility & Living Guide

Barnwell is a city in and county seat of Barnwell County, South Carolina, United States, located along U.S. Route 278. As of the 2020 census, Barnwell had a population of 4,652.

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Total Utilities$305/mo

1BR Rent$1200/mo

Sales Tax7.5%

COL Index105 (+5% above national average)

Family Score6/10

Median Home$320,000

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🌤️ Live Weather — Barnwell

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Barnwell

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💰 Budget Calculator

🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

South Carolina Electric & Gas (SCE&G)

🔥 Gas

$50/mo

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$45/mo

City of Barnwell Water Department

🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Barnwell County Solid Waste

📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead$305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1200/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1600/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2100/mo
Median Home Price	$320,000
Property Tax Rate	1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1000

The housing market in Barnwell is stable with moderate demand. Prices are slightly below the national average, making it an affordable option for families and retirees.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	7.5%
Property Tax Rate	1.2%
<p>State 6% + County 1% + City 0.5%</p>

South Carolina has a progressive income tax rate ranging from 0% to 7%.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

6/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Red

Business Momentum

Moderate with key industries in agriculture, manufacturing, and retail.

Top Local Concerns

Infrastructure maintenance, job opportunities, public safety

🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but sidewalks and parks are generally accessible for strollers.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Barnwell State Park
🎯
Barnwell County Museum
🎯
Fuller Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods near Fuller Park and Barnwell State Park are popular among families for their safety and proximity to schools and recreational areas.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Barnwell based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Residents must adhere to local zoning laws and obtain permits for home renovations. Noise ordinances are strictly enforced.

Financial Tools

Calculators

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Planning Tools

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Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
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📊 Barnwell — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Barnwell peak during summer due to high air conditioning usage. Winter heating costs are lower but still significant.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates vary by district, with no local surtaxes specific to Barnwell county.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10 with explanation: Sidewalks are present but uneven in some areas. Parks are accessible, but public transit lacks family-friendly infrastructure.

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