| Statistic | Beaufort | South Carolina | National |
| Population | 13,417 | 5,148,714 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 549 | 173 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.5 | 38.8 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 54% | 56% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 42% | 40% | 43% |
| Speak English | 93% | 93% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 5% | 4% | 13% |
The demographics of Beaufort offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 13,417, Beaufort exhibits a population density of 549 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 36.5, with 54% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 42% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Beaufort, 23% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 18% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The Beaufort racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Beaufort is 65% White, 26.7% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, 0.2% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 6.7% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 92.9% reported speaking English only, while 5% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 6.5% of residents were considered foreign born.
Regions characterized by lower-than-average population density, such as Beaufort, offer a chance for a more relaxed lifestyle, deeper connection to nature, vibrant community bonds, enhanced affordability, and heightened safety, making them enticing options for those seeking refuge from the frenetic pace of urban life. These areas often boast a more budget-friendly cost of living, with housing prices typically more affordable and residents may benefit from reduced taxes, living expenses, and insurance rates. Low population density areas often exhibit lower crime rates than densely populated urban regions, fostering a greater sense of safety and security for residents and their families. The Beaufort population density is 549 people per square mile, which ranks below 50% of cities nationwide, presenting ample opportunities to enjoy these exceptional benefits.
Policy Planning: At various levels of government and within organizations and businesses, demographic data and statistics serve as essential tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes. Through the examination and interpretation of Beaufort demographic stats and data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas requiring attention, allocate resources judiciously and design policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic segments. The utilization of Beaufort demographic data plays a pivotal role in policy formulation by informing resource allocation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, predicting future trends, assessing policy effectiveness, and advancing principles of equity and inclusivity. Through effective utilization of this data, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient, and responsive to the diverse needs of communities.
Education Allocation: In education planning, Beaufort demographic data can be invaluable for identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the formulation of effective educational programs. It serves as a crucial tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, Beaufort demographic data can be an essential tool in education for promoting equity, facilitating student success, and nurturing inclusive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students.
Social Cohesion: The examination and interpretation of demographics are pivotal for nurturing social cohesion and promoting understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and honoring differences in Beaufort demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social cohesion while addressing social disparities and advocating for equitable opportunities. Racial demographics can potentially showcase the diversity of a population and are crucial for fostering inclusive and embracing communities. Embracing diversity fortifies social bonds, fosters cultural appreciation and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
| Race | Beaufort | South Carolina | National |
| White | 64.99% | 67.27% | 73.35% |
| Black | 26.68% | 27.35% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 2.21% | 1.42% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.19% | 0.32% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.06% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 4.81% | 2.07% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 1.12% | 1.51% | 4.75% |
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