Rock Hill: A Family City with Unique Characteristics
Ah, Rock Hill! This charming city is known for its friendly neighborhoods, affordable living, and a close-knit community vibe. Recently released data from the U.S. Census Bureau has unveiled some intriguing insights about how Rock Hill stacks up against other cities, especially in the Carolinas. So, let’s dive in and see what makes this city special!
Population and Growth
Rock Hill proudly holds the title of being the fifth largest city in South Carolina, boasting a population of around 75,641. Now, while that sounds impressive, it’s important to note that Rock Hill is dwarfed by big neighbors like Charlotte, which has a whopping 911,307 residents. In comparison, Charleston and Columbia are also significantly larger, with populations around 155,988 and 142,083 respectively.
But here’s something that might surprise you: Rock Hill’s growth isn’t quite what you might expect. From 2022 to the latest estimate, Rock Hill grew by just 0.4%, bringing in fewer than 300 new residents. Other cities like North Charleston and Columbia are growing much faster, which might make folks wonder about Rock Hill’s future in terms of expansion and development.
Diversity in the Community
When it comes to diversity, Rock Hill has a lot to offer. Almost 52% of its residents identify as white, making it the city with the lowest percentage on that front within the state. On the other hand, an impressive 43.8% of the population identifies as Black, ranking Rock Hill highest among South Carolina cities in that category. This blend of cultures is one reason why Rock Hill feels vibrant and welcoming.
A Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Rock Hill can also be characterized as a middle-aged city, but not in the way you might think. The city has the lowest percentage of preschool-aged children at just 4%, and it also has a small fraction of seniors aged 85 and up at 0.7%. However, about 17.3% of the population consists of children, showcasing that Rock Hill is still a great place for families.
Economic Landscape
Now let’s talk about something that affects everyone: money! The median personal income for those aged 25 and older in Rock Hill is around $42,236. While that’s livable, it lags behind what residents in nearby Charlotte make—roughly $13,000 more. Even so, housing in Rock Hill remains affordable, with median home values around $322,000.
As for renting, Rock Hill offers a median gross rent of about $1,300 a month, which is more affordable than most of its counterparts except for Columbia. So, if you’re considering a move, Rock Hill has options for both home-buying and renting that won’t break the bank.
Education and Workforce
When diving into educational achievements, Rock Hill isn’t exactly at the top. Only 32% of residents aged 25 and older have a bachelor’s degree or higher, making it one of the lower-ranking cities in South Carolina for education. This brings into question how well the city is preparing its future generations for the job market.
Family Life and Community Engagement
Families thrive in Rock Hill, with nearly 78% of residents living with family, second only to Mount Pleasant. The percentage of homes led by unmarried individuals—both women and men—also shines, showing that Rock Hill is a welcoming space for various family structures.
Going to Work
Speaking of family and community, Rock Hill workers tend to commute, with a significant 25% leaving the state for their jobs, the highest among its peers in South Carolina. With only 10% of Rock Hill’s population working from home, it’s clear that many residents hit the road each day heading to work.
So, whether you’re drawn to Rock Hill for its affordable housing, diverse community, or family-oriented atmosphere, there’s no denying that this city has its own unique charm. With its own set of challenges and strengths, Rock Hill continues to be a solid choice for families looking for a place to call home. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, we’re all part of this lively, friendly community.
