Fairwold Acres, Columbia,SC

If you’re considering a move to the south east part of Columbia, SC, Fairwold Acres is a neighborhood worth exploring. Known for its friendly community vibe and well-maintained homes, this area offers a peaceful suburban feel while still being conveniently close to the heart of the city. Families and professionals alike are drawn to Fairwold Acres because of its blend of comfort and accessibility. The neighborhood’s streets are lined with mature trees, providing a tranquil atmosphere perfect for evening strolls or weekend bike rides.

One of the standout features of Fairwold Acres is its proximity to several local attractions and amenities. Residents enjoy easy access to popular parks such as Gills Creek Park, which offers walking trails, picnic spots, and green spaces perfect for outdoor activities. Shopping and dining options are plentiful, with nearby retail centers featuring a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores to meet everyday needs. For those who appreciate a little culture, the neighborhood is just a short drive from Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, a beloved spot for family outings and community events.

When it comes to convenience, Fairwold Acres shines with its location roughly 10 to 15 minutes from Downtown Columbia. This makes commuting to the city’s business district, universities, or entertainment venues both quick and hassle-free. Whether you work in the city or enjoy exploring the vibrant downtown scene, this neighborhood offers an ideal balance of calm residential living and urban accessibility. If you’re looking for a welcoming community with plenty of nearby amenities and easy access to Columbia’s center, Fairwold Acres could be just the place to call home.

About 27% of the Fairwold Acres population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 23% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Fairwold Acres demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 778 residents, Fairwold Acres is notably smaller than many other Columbia neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Fairwold Acres has a population density of 2,672, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Columbia neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 34, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Fairwold Acres crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Fairwold Acres, the median home price is $91,840, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Fairwold Acres can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,000, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Fairwold Acres combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Fairwold Acres can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.