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Chester, SC

South Carolina · Chester County · Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia Metro

Chester is a small city in South Carolina with a population of 5,241. Residents earn $41,231 per year, which is 45% below the national average.

2.6 /5.0
C+ Fair
5,241 Population 1,588/sq mi density
$41,231 Median Income $20,708 per capita
$106,400 Home Value $134,205 Zillow
$905 Median Rent 30.8% income on rent
60°F Avg Temperature 310 sunny days/yr
1,528 Violent Crime/100K 3,968 property/100K
C+
Overall
2.6 / 5.0
Fair overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education
C
Economy
2.2 / 5.0
$41,231 median income, 6.4% unemployment
A+
Affordability
5.0 / 5.0
$106,400 home value, $905/mo rent
F
Safety
1.0 / 5.0
1,528 violent crimes/100K (302% above avg)
C
Education
2.0 / 5.0
13.1% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Chester, SC

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile
Median Income $41,231
45% lower than US avg
Home Value $106,400
62% lower than US avg
Violent Crime 1,528/100K
302% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+ 13.1%
61% lower than US avg
Median Rent $905
22% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate 44.4%
38% higher than US avg
Unemployment 6.4%
78% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate 24.6%
98% higher than US avg

How Chester Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population5,241
Median Age37.3 yrs
Density1,588/mi²
Male / Female51% / 49%
Largest GroupWhite 32%
Veterans8.0%

Economy

C
Median Income$41,231
Per Capita$20,708
Unemployment6.4%
Poverty24.6%
County GDP$1,822M
Commute32 min

Housing

A+
Home Value$106,400
Rent$905
Ownership54.4%
Zillow$134,205
Housing Units2,607
Rent Burden30.8%

Crime

F
Violent1,528/100K
Property3,968/100K
Murder93.1/100K
Assault1,304/100K
Burglary540/100K

Health

Obesity44.4%
Uninsured18.1%
Smoking22.4%
Depression23.0%
Heart Disease7.7%

Climate

Avg Temp60°F (16°C)
AQI43 (Good)
Rain45.9 in/yr
Sunny Days310/yr
Elevation533 ft (162 m)

Education

C
Bachelor's+13.1%
High School+80.3%
Graduate+1.4%
School Score3.92

Community

2024 VoteR 58% / D 41%
Commute32 min
Broadband79.5%
EV Stations1
Libraries4

Is Chester a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Chester receives an overall livability score of 2.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate. Chester has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Chester is $41,231, 45% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 6.4% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 24.6% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 32 minutes.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Chester is $106,400, 62% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $905 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2.6x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.

Safety & Crime

With 1,528 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, public safety is a notable concern / this is significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,968 per 100,000, 102% above the national average.

Education

13.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 80.3% have completed high school. School test scores average 3.9/10, below typical benchmarks.

Climate & Weather

Chester enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F. Winters average 41°F in January while summers reach 80°F in July. With 310 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 45.9 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43.

Chester has a population of 5,241 with a density of 1,588 people per square mile, spread across 3.3 square miles. The median age is 37.3 years, 4% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 49% female and 51% male. The city is predominantly Black (64.6%), with 31.8% White. English is the primary language spoken at home by 97.6% of residents. 8.0% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 14.1% of residents have a disability. 88.5% have health insurance coverage.

Population

5,241
Total Population
1,588
People / sq mi
37.3yrs
Median Age
4% below US avg
3.3mi²
Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 51%
Female 49%

Race & Ethnicity

Chester vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 97.6%
24% above US avg
Spanish 2.4%
82% below US avg

Social Characteristics

Chester vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Chester is $41,231, which is 45% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $20,708 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,124, 22% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 6.4% (above the 3.6% US average). 24.6% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 671 business establishments, including 50 restaurants. The cost of living index is 93.7, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 32 minutes. 2.2% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Chester vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income$41,231
45% below US avg
Per Capita Income$20,708
Avg Weekly Wage$1,124
IRS Avg AGI$52,276
Gini Index0.446 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment6.4%
78% above US avg
Poverty Rate24.6%
98% above US avg
Establishments (County)671
County GDP$1,822M

Business (County)

Restaurants50
Healthcare48
Retail91
Manufacturing44

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)$2,743
22% below US avg
Cost of Living93.70 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate2.58%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time31.8 min
Drive Alone81.6%
Public Transit0.8%
Work from Home2.2%

Walkability

The median home value in Chester is $106,400, 62% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $134,205, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 97.5% of their list price. Monthly rent averages $905 (22% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $816 for a one-bedroom to $1,056 for a two-bedroom apartment. 54.4% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 2,607 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1960. The average annual property tax is $2,743 (lower than the $3,500 national average). 30.8% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.6x, well within the affordable range.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median$106,400
62% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI$134,205
Median List Price$189,900

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Median List Price$189,900
$/Sq Ft$140
Homes Sold3
Sale-to-List Ratio97.5%
Price Drops13.3%
Inventory30

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent$905
22% below US avg
Rent Burden30.8%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio$811
1 Bedroom$816
2 Bedrooms$1,056
3 Bedrooms$1,469
4 Bedrooms$1,547

Ownership & Property

Homeownership54.4%
Owner-Occupied54.4%
Renter-Occupied45.6%
Housing Units2,607
Median Year Built1960

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)$2,743
22% below US avg
Effective Rate2.58%
In Chester, 44.4% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 18.7% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 7.7% of residents, above the national average. 45.8% have high blood pressure. 22.4% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 12.6% report binge drinking. 39.6% are physically inactive, above the national average. 23.0% report depression. 21.9% experience frequent mental distress. 18.1% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:3,579. The dentist ratio is 1:6,386. 28.5% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 7.5 out of 10.

Health Metrics: Chester vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity44.4%
38% above US avg
Diabetes18.7%
Heart Disease7.7%
High Blood Pressure45.8%
Asthma12.1%
COPD10.5%
Cancer5.6%
Stroke5.6%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking22.4%
60% above US avg
Binge Drinking12.6%
Physical Inactivity39.6%
Depression23.0%
Mental Distress21.9%
Physical Distress18.0%
Short Sleep44.6%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate88.5%
Uninsured18.1%
110% above US avg
Primary Care1:3,579
Dentists1:6,386
Mental Health1:1,790
Checkup Rate80.4%
Dental Visits45.6%
Premature Death17,890/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment7.5/10
Exercise Access28.5%
Healthcare Facilities48
Chester has a violent crime rate of 1,528 per 100,000 residents, 302% above the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 1,304.0 per 100,000, robbery at 37.3, rape at 93.1. The murder rate is 93.1 per 100,000 (above the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 3,968 per 100,000, 102% above the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 3,241, burglary at 540, vehicle theft at 186 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 16 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Chester receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Chester vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent1,527.6/100K
302% above US avg
Murder93.1/100K
1378% above US avg
Rape93.1/100K
Robbery37.3/100K
Assault1,304.0/100K

Property Crime

Total Property3,968.0/100K
102% above US avg
Burglary540.2/100K
Theft3,241.4/100K
Vehicle Theft186.3/100K
Arson0.0/100K

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)16
Traffic Accidents1,081
Avg Accident Severity2.0 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety GradeF
Safety Score1.0 / 5.0
View full crime details →
Chester enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (16°C). Winters average 41°F in January while summers reach 80°F in July. The area gets 310 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 45.9 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43. The city sits at an elevation of 533 feet.

Temperature

41°F Jan (5°C) 80°F Jul (26°C)
Annual Average60.4°F
12% above US avg
January Average41°F (5°C)
July Average80°F (26°C)
Sunny Days310 days/yr

Geography

Elevation533 ft (162 m)
Area3.3 sq mi (8.5 km²)
Population Density1,588/sq mi
Coordinates34.7050°N, 81.2132°W
TimezoneAmerica/New_York
CountyChester County County
Nearest AirportCharlotte/Douglas International (CLT)
38 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 45.9"
21% above US avg
Wettest Month (Mar) 4.96"
Driest Month (Apr) 3.15"

Air Quality

AQI Median43.0
RatingGood

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall RiskRelatively Low
Risk Score43.2 / 100
Social Vulnerability68.7 / 100
Community Resilience43.6 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado Relatively Moderate
Hurricane Relatively Low
Earthquake Relatively Low
Wildfire Very Low
Flood Relatively Low
Hail Very Low
Strong Wind Relatively Moderate
Heat Wave Relatively Low
Winter Weather Very Low
Lightning Relatively Moderate
Ice Storm Relatively High
Drought Relatively Low
Cold Wave Relatively Moderate
Landslide Very Low
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Earthquake History

42 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990. Strongest: M4.1. Most recent: M2.5 on Aug 23, 2025.

Feb 15, 2014 12 km ENE of Parksville, South Carolina M4.1 128 km
Apr 13, 1998 9 km S of Kershaw, South Carolina M3.9 62 km
Jun 29, 2022 6 km E of Elgin, South Carolina M3.6 75 km
Jun 29, 2022 6 km E of Elgin, South Carolina M3.5 75 km
Jan 3, 1992 4 km ENE of Willington, South Carolina M3.4 137 km
Jun 26, 2022 6 km E of Elgin, South Carolina M3.4 75 km
May 9, 2022 5 km ESE of Elgin, South Carolina M3.3 75 km
Jun 5, 1998 4 km SSE of Mooresville, North Carolina M3.2 102 km
Aug 8, 1993 12 km ENE of Aiken, South Carolina M3.2 128 km
Aug 23, 2025 3 km N of Coronaca, South Carolina M3.0 93 km
Feb 16, 2014 13 km WNW of Edgefield, South Carolina M3.0 125 km
Aug 4, 2007 12 km ENE of Lake Lure, North Carolina M3.0 118 km
Feb 18, 2005 7 km ENE of Irmo, South Carolina M2.9 66 km
Jan 29, 1994 12 km NNE of Alcolu, South Carolina M2.9 136 km
Mar 21, 2011 9 km S of Cordova, North Carolina M2.9 127 km
Aug 23, 2025 3 km NNW of Coronaca, South Carolina M2.9 94 km
Sep 18, 1996 6 km E of Clarks Hill, South Carolina M2.8 141 km
Apr 26, 2013 9 km E of Lincolnton, Georgia M2.8 149 km
May 10, 2022 5 km E of Elgin, South Carolina M2.8 74 km
Aug 14, 2025 7 km N of Columbus, North Carolina M2.7 113 km
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)

Hurricane History

10 hurricanes (Cat 1+) within 500 km since 1980. Strongest: Category 4. Most recent: Ian (2022, Cat 1).

Year Name Category Closest
2022 Ian Category 1 243 km
2020 Isaias Category 1 265 km
2018 Florence Category 1 270 km
2016 Matthew Category 2 244 km
2004 Charley Category 1 243 km
2004 Gaston Category 1 241 km
1996 Fran Category 3 236 km
1989 Hugo Category 4 10 km
1985 Bob Category 1 286 km
1984 Diana Category 3 279 km
Source: NOAA IBTrACS (Cat 1+, 1980–2026)

Tornado History

464 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF4. Total: 31 fatalities, 635 injuries.

Date Rating Distance Fatalities
May 5, 1989 EF4 54 km 1
May 5, 1989 EF4 91 km 4
May 5, 1989 EF4 78 km 2
Mar 28, 1984 EF4 39 km 5
Mar 28, 1984 EF4 57 km 0
Dec 13, 1973 EF4 94 km 2
Apr 8, 1957 EF4 59 km 4
Mar 15, 2008 EF3 73 km 0
Sep 7, 2004 EF3 76 km 0
Nov 2, 1995 EF3 99 km 0
Aug 16, 1994 EF3 86 km 0
Aug 16, 1994 EF3 87 km 0
Aug 16, 1994 EF3 29 km 0
Mar 27, 1994 EF3 51 km 0
Oct 18, 1990 EF3 58 km 0
Mar 28, 1984 EF3 47 km 0
Dec 13, 1973 EF3 73 km 1
May 10, 1952 EF3 95 km 2
Mar 31, 2022 EF2 99 km 0
May 5, 2020 EF2 21 km 0
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)

Wildfire History

20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km. Largest: BURNING UNIT (5,567 ac, 2010).

Year Name Acres Distance
2010 BURNING UNIT 5,567 20 km
2009 UNNAMED 5,322 83 km
2010 C-94-95 133 RX 3,192 51 km
1991 UNNAMED 3,094 88 km
2010 UNNAMED 2,909 51 km
2015 UNNAMED 2,690 25 km
2017 UNNAMED 2,514 55 km
2009 UNNAMED 2,458 29 km
2017 UNNAMED 2,395 46 km
2017 UNNAMED 2,362 41 km
2008 05/05 RX BURN 2,351 89 km
2013 UNNAMED 2,274 29 km
2013 UNNAMED 2,237 55 km
2010 C-142 RX 2,149 53 km
2007 06-09 RX BURN 2,054 90 km
2022 SCCRR-FY22-RX-PRESCRIBED FIRE 2,039 87 km
2021 UNNAMED 2,024 45 km
2019 UNNAMED 2,000 51 km
2016 UNNAMED 1,964 20 km
2009 UNNAMED 1,918 23 km
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)

Monthly Weather

Month Avg Temperature Precipitation Summary
January 41°F (5°C) 4.5 in Coldest
February 45°F (7°C) 3.9 in
March 52°F (11°C) 5.0 in Wettest
April 60°F (16°C) 3.2 in Driest
May 68°F (20°C) 3.6 in
June 75°F (24°C) 4.2 in
July 80°F (26°C) 4.3 in Warmest
August 78°F (25°C) 4.5 in
September 72°F (22°C) 4.2 in
October 61°F (16°C) 3.5 in
November 52°F (11°C) 3.4 in
December 44°F (7°C) 3.7 in

Chester has a seasonal temperature swing of 39°F / from 41°F in January to 80°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 47.8 inches, with March being the wettest month (5.0") and April the driest (3.2").

View full weather details →
Chester is located in Chester County. It is classified as Metro / 1 million+, part of a metropolitan area. 13.1% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 61% below the national average of 33.7%. 80.3% have completed high school. 1.4% hold a graduate or professional degree (below the 13.1% national rate). Area schools have an average test score of 3.9 out of 10, below typical benchmarks. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 58.1% of the vote, a 17.2-point margin. 79.5% of households have broadband internet access (below the 90.0% national rate). The area has 1 EV charging stations. There are 4 public libraries serving the community. 48 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 81.6% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 58.1%
D 40.8%

Winner: Republican by 17.2 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)16
Traffic Accidents1,081
Avg Accident Severity2.0 / 4.0
F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+13.1%
61% below US avg
High School+80.3%
Graduate Degree+1.4%
School Test Score3.92
C Education Grade (2.0/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 1Metro / 1 million+
Population Density1,588/sq mi
Total Area3.3 sq mi
CountyChester County County

Services

Broadband Access79.5%
Avg Download Speed57.8 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed4.6 Mbps
Max Download Speed1,000 Mbps
EV Charging Stations1
Alt Fuel Stations1
Public Libraries4
Healthcare Facilities48
Restaurants50
Retail Stores91

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute31.8 min
Drive Alone81.6%
Public Transit0.8%
Work from Home2.2%
Average costs for common services in Chester. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.

Healthcare

Doctor Visit (Primary Care) $234 ($141–$375)
Specialist Visit $328 ($187–$515)
Urgent Care Visit $187 ($94–$328)
Emergency Room Visit $2,061 ($750–$4,685)
Dental Cleaning $122 ($70–$187)
Dental Filling $234 ($141–$375)
View all 40 services

Auto Repair

Oil Change (Conventional) $42 ($23–$70)
Oil Change (Synthetic) $70 ($47–$112)
Brake Pad Replacement $281 ($141–$469)
Tire Rotation $37 ($19–$70)
New Tires (Set of 4) $562 ($375–$937)
Battery Replacement $187 ($94–$328)
View all 18 services

Home Services

Plumber (Per Hour) $94 ($56–$141)
Electrician (Per Hour) $84 ($47–$131)
HVAC Repair $375 ($141–$750)
HVAC System Install $6,559 ($3,748–$11,244)
Roof Repair $937 ($375–$1,874)
Roof Replacement $8,433 ($5,154–$14,055)
View all 25 services

Legal

Divorce (Uncontested) $1,406 ($469–$3,280)
Divorce (Contested) $14,055 ($4,685–$28,110)
DUI Defense $4,685 ($1,874–$9,370)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) $1,406 ($750–$2,811)
Will Preparation $469 ($187–$937)
Trust Preparation $2,343 ($937–$4,685)
View all 12 services

Personal Care

Men's Haircut $23 ($14–$42)
Women's Haircut $52 ($28–$94)
Hair Coloring (Full) $141 ($70–$234)
Manicure $23 ($14–$42)
Pedicure $37 ($23–$61)
Massage (1 Hour) $75 ($47–$122)
View all 12 services

Food & Grocery

Gallon of Milk (per gallon) $3.84 ($2.81–$5.15)
Dozen Eggs (per dozen) $3.28 ($2.34–$4.69)
Loaf of Bread $3.56 ($2.34–$5.15)
Chicken Breast (per lb) $4.22 ($2.81–$6.09)
Ground Beef (per lb) $5.15 ($3.75–$7.03)
Rice (per lb) $0.94 ($0.56–$1.69)
View all 20 services

Utilities

Electricity (Monthly) $131 ($75–$234)
Natural Gas (Monthly) $66 ($28–$141)
Water/Sewer (Monthly) $66 ($37–$112)
Internet (Monthly) $66 ($37–$94)
Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) $61 ($28–$94)
Cable TV (Monthly) $80 ($47–$141)
View all 8 services

Transportation

Monthly Parking (Downtown) $187 ($70–$469)
Car Insurance (Annual) $1,874 ($1,124–$3,280)
Bus Pass (Monthly) $66 ($28–$122)
Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) $14 ($7.50–$23)
Car Registration (Annual) $94 ($28–$234)
Driver's License Renewal $28 ($14–$70)
View all 8 services

Education & Childcare

Daycare (Infant, Monthly) $1,124 ($562–$2,343)
Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) $937 ($469–$1,874)
After-School Care (Monthly) $375 ($187–$656)
Tutoring (Per Hour) $47 ($23–$94)
SAT/ACT Prep Course $937 ($375–$2,343)
Private School (K-12, Annual) $11,713 ($4,685–$28,110)
View all 8 services

Pets

Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) $56 ($28–$94)
Dog Vaccination (Annual) $94 ($47–$187)
Dog Grooming $56 ($28–$94)
Pet Boarding (Per Night) $37 ($19–$70)
Dog Spay/Neuter $281 ($141–$469)
Cat Spay/Neuter $187 ($94–$375)
View all 9 services

Childcare

Center-Based (monthly)
Infant$508
Toddler$508
Preschool$551
Family Childcare (monthly)
Infant$580
Toddler$580
Preschool$594
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)

Top Industries in Chester County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry Jobs Establishments Avg Annual Pay Location Quotient
Manufacturing 3,567 56 $67,231 4.17
Wholesale Trade 957 36 $71,997 2.33
Retail Trade 865 104 $28,406 0.83
Construction 774 54 $74,558 1.42
Health Care & Social Assistance 384 62 $43,702 0.26
Transportation & Warehousing 282 35 $47,337 0.64
Professional & Technical Services 212 52 $136,632 0.29
Other Services 186 50 $37,325 0.59
Information & Technology 166 13 $85,502 0.85
Administrative & Waste Services 166 40 $35,746 0.27
Finance & Insurance 123 25 $57,259 0.29
Utilities 23 9 $87,508 0.58
Educational Services 22 8 $39,573 0.10
Real Estate 14 11 $51,264 0.09
Management of Companies 5 3 $65,614 0.03

Hospitals in Chester

Hospital Type CMS Rating Emergency Phone
MUSC HEALTH CHESTER MEDICAL CENTER Acute Care Hospitals Yes (803) 581-3151

Schools in Chester

6 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School Level Enrollment Teachers Student/Teacher
Chester Senior High High 754 50 15.1:1
Chester Middle Middle 517 39 13.3:1
Chester Park School Elementary of Inquiry Elementary 409 32 12.8:1
Chester Park Elementary School for the Arts Elementary 360 30 12.0:1
Academy for Teaching and Learning (Charter) Elementary 328 25 13.1:1
Chester Park Elementary School of Literacy and Technology Elementary 323 26 12.4:1
View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Chester

2 stations within ~55 km.

Station Genre Quality
Sacred Turntable MP3 192 kbps
AM 1460 WBCU country AAC+ 32 kbps

Campgrounds Near Chester

5 campgrounds found near Chester.

National Parks Near Chester

23 national parks and monuments found near Chester.

ParkTypeFee
Andrew Jackson State Park State Park Free
Bobs Creek State Natural Area State Park Free
Chester State Park State Park Free
Congaree National Park National Park Free
Cowpens National Battlefield National Battlefield Free
Croft State Park State Park Free
Crowders Mountain State Park State Park Free
Dreher Island State Park State Park Free
Fonta Flora State Trail State Park Free
Goodale State Park State Park Free
Hamilton Branch State Park State Park Free
Kings Mountain National Military Park National Military Park Free
Kings Mountain State Park State Park Free
Lake Greenwood State Park State Park Free
Lake Norman State Park State Park Free
Lake Wateree State Park State Park Free
Landsford Canal State Park State Park Free
Ninety Six National Historic Site National Historic Site Free
Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail National Historic Trail Free
Poinsett State Park State Park Free
Sesquicentennial State Park State Park Free
South Mountains State Park State Park Free
Wilderness Gateway State Trail State Park Free

Trails Near Chester

36 trails found near Chester.

TrailMilesSurfaceHikeBikeHorse
TYGER RIVER CANOE TRAIL 30.6 WATER
ENOREE RIVER CANOE TRAIL 21.9 WATER
PALMETTO TRAIL (EN) 15.7 NATIVE MATERIAL
ENOREE RIVER CANOE TRAIL 15.3 WATER
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 13.0 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 9.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
ENOREE OHV TRAIL 6.0 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 5.4 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 3.9 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 3.9 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 3.8 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 2.7 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 2.0 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 1.9 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 1.4 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 1.3 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 1.0 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 1.0 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.7 NATIVE MATERIAL
MOLLYS ROCK TRAIL 0.6 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.5 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.5 NATIVE MATERIAL
ROSEHILL HIKING TRAIL 0.5 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.5 NATIVE MATERIAL
NEAL SHOALS PORTAGE TRAIL 0.4 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.4 NATIVE MATERIAL
JEWS HARP TRAIL 0.2 NATIVE MATERIAL
ROSEHILL HIKING TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HIKING TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
BUNCOMBE HORSE TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.1 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.0 NATIVE MATERIAL
WOODS FERRY HORSE TRAIL 0.0 NATIVE MATERIAL

Museums in Chester

NameTypeAddressPhoneAnnual Revenue
HISTORIC ROCK HILLHISTORIC PRESERVATION258 E WHITE STREET8033291020$107,803
HISTORIC ROCK HILL-WHITE HOMEHISTORIC PRESERVATION258 EAST WHITE STREET8033291020$107,803
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION8033852332
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETYHISTORIC PRESERVATION107 MCALILEY ST8033852330
CHESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUMHISTORIC PRESERVATION107 MCALILEY ST6106924800
COMPORIUM MUSEUMGENERAL MUSEUM8033244030
CULTURE & HERITAGE MUSEUMS HISTORIC BRATTONSVILLEGENERAL MUSEUM8036842327
DALTON GALLERYART MUSEUM
HISTORIC BRATTONSVILLEHISTORIC PRESERVATION8036842327
LANDO-MANETTA MILLS HISTORY CENTERHISTORIC PRESERVATION
MUSEUM OF WESTERN YORK COUNTYHISTORY MUSEUM8039270700
WINTHROP UNIVERSITY ART GALLERIESART MUSEUM

Libraries in Chester

NameAddressStaffAnnual VisitsCirculationCollectionPrograms
YORK COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM138 EAST BLACK STREET0.0574,173
CHESTER COUNTY LIBRARY100 CENTER STREET0.068,800

Farmers Markets in Chester

NameAddressSeasonHoursOrganicWebsite
Chester Farmers & Artisans Market111 Columbia Street05/13/2017 to 10/07/2017Tue: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM;Thu: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM;Sat: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM;Visit
Old Town Farmers Market115 Caldwell Street05/08/2014 to 08/28/2014Thu: 5:00 PM-8:00 PM;Sat: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM;Visit
York County Farmers Market Elizabeth Lane & Black Street

Gas Stations in Chester

1 gas stations within city radius — OpenStreetMap data

Citgo

Breweries in Chester

NameTypeAddressPhoneWebsite
Legal Remedy BrewingBrewery and Beer Garden129 Oakland AveVisit
Silver Dollar 2.0bar & grill restaurants, Cocktail Lounges, Bars, cocktail lounges, food and drink, Restaurant, Resta1037 Camden Ave8033247557, 8033244130

Nursing Homes in Chester

1 nursing homes and rehabilitation centers (CMS data).

Facility Ownership Beds Residents Overall Health Staffing Quality Phone
CHESTER NURSING CENTER
1 MEDICAL PARK DRIVE
For profit - Corporation 100 67 1/5 3/5 1/5 8035819400

Pharmacies in Chester

5 pharmacies and drugstores.

Pharmacy Address Phone
BI-LO - 268 1436 J A COCHRAN BYPASS 803-581-6310
BLACK'S DRUG STORE INCORPORATED 121 CHURCH STREET 803-581-2102
COMMUNITY MEDICINE PHARMACY - 2 102 CESTRAIN SQUARE 803-581-7209
CVS - 4386 592 LANCASTER HIGHWAY 803-377-4137
WAL-MART - 1603 1841 J A COCHRAN BYPASS 803-581-3096

EV Charging Stations in Chester

NameAddressNetworkLevel 2DC FastConnectorsAccess
759 State Park Rd (US-6LF-YSQ-1)759 State Park RdRIVIAN_WAYPOINTS1J1772public
759 State Park Rd (US-6LF-YSQ-2)759 State Park RdRIVIAN_WAYPOINTS1J1772public

Cell Towers in Chester

AddressStructure TypeHeight (ft)
724 COMMUNICATION DRTOWER136
2004 Hambright Dr. (153458)GTOWER126
2004 Hambright Dr. (153458)GTOWER126
Intersection of West End Street & SC HighwayTOWER101
2144 Hicklin Bridge Road (88676)LTOWER72
2144 Hicklin Bridge Road (88676)LTOWER72

Fire Stations in Chester

NameAddressTypeActive FirefightersVolunteersPhone
Chester Fire Department156 Columbia STMostly career803-385-2123
North Chester Volunteer Fire Department2428 Old York RDVolunteer803-385-6621

Bridges in Chester

LocationTypeKindYear BuiltLength (ft)Daily TrafficCondition
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel197360850P
SlabConcrete continuous199669275G
SlabConcrete continuous199660200G
Stringer/Multi-beamPrestressed concrete195790125P
SlabPrestressed concrete2009100125G
Stringer/Multi-beamPrestressed concrete196630125F
SlabConcrete198960125F
Stringer/Multi-beamSteel199695125G
Box Beam (Multiple)Prestressed concrete202380125G
Box Beam (Multiple)Prestressed concrete202390125G
Box Beam (Multiple)Prestressed concrete202380125G
Box Beam (Multiple)Prestressed concrete20187075G
Stringer/Multi-beamPrestressed concrete199611550G

Correctional Facilities in Chester

NameAddressTypePopulationCapacityStatus
CHESTER COUNTY DETENTION CENTER2740 DAWSON DRCOUNTY69-999OPEN

Airports Near Chester

50 airports within the area.

AirportIATAType
Charlotte Douglas International AirportCLTLarge Airport
Concord-Padgett Regional AirportUSAMedium Airport
Jim Hamilton L.B. Owens AirportCUBMedium Airport
Shaw Air Force BaseSSCMedium Airport
Aero Plantation AirportSmall Airport
American Dream Skyranch AirportSmall Airport
Boomerang AirportSmall Airport
Bradford Field AirportSmall Airport
Buffalo Creek AirportSmall Airport
Carolina Cow Country AirportSmall Airport
Charlotte-Monroe Executive AirportSmall Airport
Chester Catawba Regional AirportSmall Airport
Cleveland AirportSmall Airport
Clute's Hilltop AirportSmall Airport
Dirt Dobber's Grass StripSmall Airport
Edwards AirportSmall Airport
El Porvenir AirparkSmall Airport
Fairfield County AirportSmall Airport
Falls LandingSmall Airport
Fulton FieldSmall Airport
Gastonia Municipal AirportSmall Airport
Goose Creek AirportSmall Airport
Hawk's Knoll AirportSmall Airport
Hawks Meadow AirportSmall Airport
Horseshoe Landing AirportSmall Airport
Indian Creek AirportSmall Airport
Jaars Townsend AirportSmall Airport
Kirk Air BaseSmall Airport
La Dolce Terra AirportSmall Airport
Lancaster County-Mc Whirter FieldSmall Airport
Laughing Crow AirparkSmall Airport
Laurens County AirportSmall Airport
Mc Cachren FieldSmall Airport
Mc Gee FieldSmall Airport
Newberry County AirportSmall Airport
Northbrook International Ultraport UltralightportSmall Airport
Over the Hill AirportSmall Airport
Paradise LandingSmall Airport
Pearson's Farm AirportSmall Airport
Propst AirportSmall Airport
Rizzy Ridge AirportSmall Airport
Rock Hill - York County AirportRKHSmall Airport
Rutherford County Marchman FieldSmall Airport
Sexton AirportSmall Airport
Shealy AirportSmall Airport
Shelby-Cleveland County Regional AirportSmall Airport
Spartanburg Downtown Memorial AirportSPASmall Airport
Turner FieldSmall Airport
Twin AirparkSmall Airport
Union County, Troy Shelton FieldUSCSmall Airport

Police Stations in Chester

4 police stations.

StationAddressPhone
Community Services Unit46 Sunset Drive
Good Building
Rock Hill Police Department120 East Black Street
Winthrop Campus Police

Grocery Stores in Chester

7 grocery stores.

StoreTypeAddress
Bift LlcConvenience Store560 Columbia Rd
Blackstock DepotConvenience Store1135 Durham Rd
Center ExpressConvenience Store300 Center St
Clack's Convenience CornerConvenience Store103 Lancaster St
DOLLAR GENERAL 1606Other129 Cestrain Sq
Food Lion 2804Supermarket1436 J A Cochran Byp
The Chester Market Of Cotton Hills FarmSpecialty Store131 Church St

Post Offices in Chester

1 post offices.

Post OfficeAddress
United States Post Office131 Saluda Street

Treatment Centers in Chester

3 treatment centers.

CenterTypePhone
Catawba Community Mental Health Center - Chester ClinicMental Health803-581-8311
Chester County Alcohol and Drug Abuse - DBA Hazel Pittman CenterSubstance Abuse803-377-8111
Rock Hill Treatment SpecialistsSubstance Abuse803-526-7666

DOL Wage Violations in Chester

11 employers with DOL wage violations totaling $73,443 in back wages owed to 83 employees.

11
Violations
$73,443
Back Wages Owed
83
Employees Owed
Data from the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division (WHD) enforcement actions since FY 2005.
Employer Severity Parent Company ZIP Industry Cases Back Wages Per Employee Employees
Georgia Families in Transition 29706 1 $25,955 $1,180 22
Los Magueyes Mexican Restaurant 29706 1 $9,175 $9,175 1
Joseph H Wilson Farm 29706 1 $8,947 $4,473 2
Tiny Tot Day Care 29706 1 $8,390 $400 21
J M Houston Trucking 29706 1 $6,656 $1,664 4
Chester Police Department 29706 1 $5,203 $2,602 2
Chester County Connector 29706 1 $3,824 $191 20
Lowry's One Stop 29706 1 $2,637 $1,319 2
Children First Medical Center 29706 1 $1,343 $224 6
Captain's Galley Seafood Restaurant 29706 1 $1,239 $620 2
McDonald's Restaurant McDonalds Corporation 29706 1 $73 $73 1

Churches & Religious Organizations in Chester

40 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

NameAddress
ALL SEASONS MINISTRIES507 REGGIE LN
BEAVER CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH2953 ASHFORD RD
BLACKSTOCK FIRST BAPTIST CHURCHPO BOX 156
CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHPO BOX 1939
CAPERS CHAPEL CHURCH1683 LOWRYS HWY
CHARITY FOOD MINISTRYPO BOX 26
CHESTER A R P CHURCHPO BOX 174
CHESTER FIRST BAPTIST CHURCHPO BOX 518
CHESTER FREEDOM MINISTRIES INC729 VILLAGE DR
CHRIST CENTRAL MINISTIES INC127 HUDSON ST
CHRIST CENTRAL MINISTRIES INC144 GADSDEN ST
EMBER CHURCH INC1841 J A COCHRAN BYP STE H
ETERNAL ROCK CHURCH2183 DAWSON DR
GRACE DEAF MISSIONS2109 MARSHALL BYARS RD
HOPEWELL A R P CHURCH1391 HOPEWELL CHURCH RD
IGLESIA PENTECOSTAL LA GLORIA DE SION508 5TH ST
LIBERTY BAPTIST CHURCH1542 LIBERTY RD
LOWRYS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH3981 ARMENIA RD
NEW HOPE A R P CHURCH9172 OLD DOUGLASS RD
NEW LIFE WORSHIP ASSEMBLY110 HARDIN ST
ORRS BAPTIST CHURCH1266 LANCASTER HWY
PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCHPO BOX 1227
REFUGE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST213 GLADDEN ST
REVIVE CHURCHPO BOX 64
ROTB DIPLOMAT CENTER2261 J A COCHRAN BYP
SALUDA STREET CHURCH OF GOD544 SALUDA RD
SANDY RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH CHRISTIAN MINISTRYPO BOX 1936
ST JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH110 W END ST
ST MARK EPISCOPAL CHURCHPO BOX 41
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH651 GREAT FALLS HWY
TRUE LOVE AND FAITH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH108 COLUMBIA ST
VINE INSTITUTE531 SHERWOOD CIR
WASHING WORDS MINISTRY673 ASHFORD RD
WEST CHESTER BAPTIST CHURCH1898 PINCKNEY RD
WEST SIDE BAPTIST CHURCH523 ROSE ST
WILKSBURG BAPTIST CHURCH3137 PINCKNEY RD
WOODWARD BAPTIST CHURCH1570 ASHFORD RD
WORD & SPIRIT MINISTRIESPO BOX 335
ZION PILGRIM BAPTIST CHURCHPO BOX 1921
ZION PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH2219 THE AVE

Explore Near Chester

UFO Sightings
2
Reported UFO sightings from the National UFO Reporting Center database
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Historic Markers
2
Officially designated historical markers from the Historical Marker Database
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Meteorites
1
Confirmed meteorite landing sites recorded in NASA meteorite catalog
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chester

What is the population of Chester?

Chester has a population of 5,241 residents and is located in South Carolina. The population density is 1,588 people per square mile, spread across 3.3 square miles. The median age of residents is 37.3 years. The population is 49% female and 51% male.

Is Chester expensive to live in?

Chester is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 93.7 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $41,231, 45% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $106,400 (62% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $905 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Chester safe?

Public safety is a concern in Chester, with a violent crime rate of 1,528 per 100,000 / significantly above the national average of 380. However, crime tends to concentrate in certain areas, and many neighborhoods remain relatively safe. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,968 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Chester receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Chester?

Chester enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (16°C). Winter temperatures average 41°F in January, while summers reach an average of 80°F in July. The area receives 310 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 45.9 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43.

How is the job market in Chester?

The unemployment rate in Chester is 6.4%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $1,124. There are 671 business establishments in the area, including 50 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 32 minutes, and 2.2% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Chester?

The median home value in Chester is $106,400. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $134,205. For renters, the median monthly rent is $905. Fair market rent is $816 for a 1-bedroom and $1,056 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 54.4%. The average annual property tax is $2,743.

How are the schools in Chester?

Schools in Chester have an average test score of 3.9 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 13.1% of adults in Chester hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 80.3% have completed high school. 1.4% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Chester?

The obesity rate in Chester is 44.4% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 22.4% of adults are smokers. 39.6% are physically inactive. 23.0% of residents report depression. 18.1% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 28.5% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:3,579.

What is transportation like in Chester?

The average commute in Chester is 32 minutes, longer than the national average of 28 minutes. 81.6% of workers drive alone to work, and 2.2% work from home.

What are the demographics of Chester?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chester is 31.8% White, 64.6% Black or African American, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino. 97.6% of residents speak only English at home. 8.0% of the population are military veterans. 14.1% of residents have a disability. 88.5% have health insurance coverage.

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