Tega Cay, SC: A Snapshot of Demographic Growth and Community Strength

Written By Guest User

Tega Cay, South Carolina, has experienced steady growth in recent years while holding onto its small-town charm and close-knit feel. Located just outside of Charlotte and along the shores of Lake Wylie, this lakeside community has become one of the most desirable places to live in the region, and the data backs it up.

According to the latest U.S. Census estimates, the population grew from 12,790 in April 2020 to 14,294 by July 2024 - an increase of nearly 12% in just four years.

A Community for All Ages

Tega Cay is known for its active, involved residents of all ages:

  • 4.8% of residents are under 5 years old

  • 25.2% are under 18

  • 57.5% are adults between the ages of 18 and 64

  • 17.3% are 65 or older

Walk along the trails or around the lake, and you’ll likely pass young families with strollers, kids on scooters, retirees out for their morning walk, and neighbors catching up on front porches. Tega Cay is a place where every generation finds space to thrive.

Women slightly outnumber men here, with 51.1% of the population identifying as female.

Patriotism and Pride

Tega Cay is home to 681 veterans, and it shows in the city’s deep sense of pride and patriotism. Community events like the annual U.S. OF CAY Fourth of July celebration bring residents together in red, white, and blue for parades, fireworks, and neighborhood gatherings. This is a city that values service and community spirit in equal measure.

Education and Cultural Makeup

Tega Cay is also known for its highly educated population:

  • 98.8% of adults age 25 and older have at least a high school diploma

  • 65.7% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher

This foundation supports a strong and skilled workforce. Tega Cay also reflects growing cultural diversity, with 14.6% of residents being foreign-born. Niche.com currently gives Tega Cay a B+ rating for diversity, considering both ethnic and economic factors.

Economic Strength

Tega Cay consistently ranks among the most financially stable communities in South Carolina:

  • Median household income: $141,037

  • Per capita income: $66,247

  • Poverty rate: just 0.6%

With strong schools, beautiful surroundings, and low poverty levels, it's no surprise that so many families are choosing to settle down here.

What the Rankings Say

Niche.com’s 2024 rankings place Tega Cay firmly at the top across several categories in South Carolina:

  • #1 Best Places to Live in South Carolina (of 188)

  • #1 Best Places to Raise a Family in South Carolina

  • #1 Places with the Best Public Schools in South Carolina

  • #1 Best Places to Live in the Charlotte Area (of 209)

The overall rating for Tega Cay on Niche is A+, with high scores in:

  • Crime & Safety: A+

  • Good for Families: A+

  • Housing: A

  • Jobs: A

  • Health & Fitness: A–

  • Cost of Living: B

  • Weather: B+

  • Commute: B

  • Outdoor Activities: B

  • Nightlife: B

Possibly the most telling metric? 100% of Niche survey respondents said Tega Cay has a good sense of community.

A Final Word

If you’re looking for a city that combines scenic beauty, excellent schools, strong community involvement, and real economic opportunity, Tega Cay is hard to beat. The data tells a compelling story—but even more, so does a walk down any of its leafy streets or an afternoon spent by the lake.

Whether you’re raising a family, starting a new job, or planning for retirement, Tega Cay offers a lifestyle that’s as welcoming as it is rewarding.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (July 2024 population estimates), Niche.com community rankings and reviews (2024).

Guest User
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