| Statistic | Surfside Beach | South Carolina | National |
| Population | 4,470 | 5,148,714 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 2,294 | 173 | 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% |
Understanding the demographics of Surfside Beach is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Surfside Beach population is 4,470, with a population density of 2,294 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, 16% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 11% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
Understanding the Surfside Beach racial demographics and ethnic composition is paramount for addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and fortifying communities. In Surfside Beach, the racial breakdown indicates 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. Notably, 98.4% of households reported speaking English only, while 0.8% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 2.1% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
High population density areas are renowned for their extensive array of amenities and services, easily accessible to residents within walking distance or a short commute. From healthcare facilities and educational institutions to cultural venues, dining establishments, retail shops and public transportation options, these communities offer convenience and enrichment to their inhabitants. The Surfside Beach population density is 2,294 people per square mile, well above the national average of 91, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the nation.
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.
Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Surfside Beach demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in Surfside Beach can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.
Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Surfside Beach demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Surfside Beach demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
Urban Development: Surfside Beach demographic statistics are invaluable for urban planners in designing and developing areas that cater to residents' needs, encompassing housing, transportation, and public services, all while fostering sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Shifts in demographics can influence gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract new residents with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may increase, potentially displacing long-term residents and altering the neighborhood's character. Analyzing population density, age distribution, household size, and income levels is crucial for guiding decisions regarding zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing expansion and public amenities. Utilizing Surfside Beach demographic data in planning and executing affordable housing initiatives can serve as a preventive measure against displacement.
| 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% |
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