Statistic Surfside Beach South Carolina National
Population 4,617 5,275,357 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 2,390 175 91
Median age 53.7 38.8 37.7
Male/Female ratio 1.1:1 0.9:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 57% 56% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 27% 40% 43%
Speak English 98% 93% 79%
Speak Spanish 1% 4% 13%
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Overview of Surfside Beach Demographics

The population of Surfside Beach is 4,617, with a population density of 2,390 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 53.7 and 57% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 27% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Surfside Beach goes, 16% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 11% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Surfside Beach demographics data can provide indispensable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of cities, towns or even villages, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to devise strategies that foster prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents.

Surfside Beach Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The Surfside Beach racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In Surfside Beach, the racial breakdown reveals 93.9% White, 1.4% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 0.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 98.4% reported speaking English only, while 0.8% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 2.1% of residents were classified as foreign-born.

Surfside Beach Population Density

Areas with a high population density tend to support a wide range of amenities and services within walking distance or a short commute. Residents tend to have convenient access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, cultural venues, restaurants, shops and public transportation options, enhancing their quality of life and overall well-being. The Surfside Beach population density is 2,390 people per square mile, which is well-above the national average of 91 and is considered one of the most densely populated cities in the country.

Is Surfside Beach Family Friendly?

In a city like Surfside Beach with fewer children, there are numerous advantages tailored to a demographic where families with fewer or no children seek an ideal environment. These benefits may encompass a serene atmosphere, a heightened emphasis on amenities geared towards adults, reduced traffic congestion and enhanced affordability. Notably, one of the key advantages could be the wider availability of housing options designed to suit adult residents or smaller households. This may include a variety of housing types such as condominiums, apartments, or single-family homes tailored for couples or individuals without children, thereby offering a diverse range of choices for prospective buyers or renters. Areas with fewer children may also signal that the locale is conducive to retirees or seniors. In Surfside Beach, only 27% of the population consists of children under 18 years old, significantly below the national average. Additionally, 57% of residents aged over 15 are married. These demographics could suggest a promising environment for capitalizing on all the benefits of a city with fewer children.

Why are Demographics Important?

Education Allocation: In education planning, Surfside Beach 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, Surfside Beach 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: Analyzing demographics is vital for nurturing social cohesion and fostering understanding among diverse communities. By embracing and respecting variations in Surfside Beach demographics, societies can advance inclusivity, diversity and social unity while combatting social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics mirror the diversity within a population and can be instrumental in cultivating inclusive and inviting communities. Embracing diversity strengthens social bonds, fosters cultural appreciation and enriches society by acknowledging the contributions of individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Urban Development: By leveraging demographic data in Surfside Beach, urban planners can tailor areas to meet the needs of any resident across housing, transportation and public services, all while fostering sustainability and elevating quality of life. Demographic changes can fuel gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract newcomers with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing established residents and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. A nuanced understanding of population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is pivotal for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Utilizing the demographic data in planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks and promote inclusive communities.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Surfside Beach is 1262% higher than South Carolina
  • The median age in Surfside Beach is 38% higher than South Carolina
  • In Surfside Beach 93.89% of the population is White
  • In Surfside Beach 1.39% of the population is Black
  • In Surfside Beach 0.60% of the population is Asian

Compare Surfside Beach, SC Demographics

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      Surfside Beach racial demographics

      Race Surfside Beach South Carolina National
      White 93.89% 67.27% 73.35%
      Black 1.39% 27.35% 12.63%
      Asian 0.60% 1.42% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.00% 0.32% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.00% 0.06% 0.18%
      Mixed race 4.12% 2.07% 3.06%
      Other race 0.00% 1.51% 4.75%
      In Surfside Beach, 0.1% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Surfside Beach age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Surfside Beach, SC demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.