Darlington, SC Utility & Living Guide

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Darlington, SC Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: July 3, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$630/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$158,100
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🌤️ Live Weather — Darlington
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Darlington
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Duke Energy
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$45/mo

City of Darlington Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Darlington County Solid Waste
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead$305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$630/mo
2 Bedrooms$700/mo
3 Bedrooms$875/mo
Median Home Price$158,100
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

The housing market in Darlington is moderately priced with steady demand due to its proximity to Florence and the NASCAR track. Older homes are affordable, while newer developments attract families.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6% + County 1% + City 0.5%</p>

South Carolina has a progressive income tax ranging from 0% to 7% based on income brackets.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

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 manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism.
Top Local Concerns
Infrastructure maintenance, job opportunities, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Limited public transit; most families rely on personal vehicles. Sidewalks are available in downtown areas.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Darlington Raceway
  • 🎯
    Kalmia Gardens
  • 🎯
    Darlington Splash Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and neighborhoods near Kalmia Gardens are popular for families due to walkability and proximity to parks. Newer subdivisions offer modern amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Residents must obtain permits for home renovations. Short-term rentals require a business license.

Financial Tools

Calculators
Planning Tools

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📊 Darlington — Census & Demographic Data

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

💰 Median Household Income
$33,750
🏠 Homeownership Rate
48.5%
🔑 Renter Rate
51.5%
📉 Poverty Rate
30.9%
💼 Unemployment Rate
8.9%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months see higher electricity costs due to air conditioning, while winter heating costs are minimal given the mild climate.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: Property tax millage rate is 1.2%. No local surtaxes specific to Darlington County.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10: Sidewalks are decent in downtown areas but limited elsewhere. Parks are accessible, but public transit lacks family-friendly features.

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