Lancaster County · Palmetto Heroes
Help for first-time buyers in Lancaster County, South Carolina
Lancaster County, including fast-growing Indian Land, has its own SC Housing limits, and the year-round $10,000 forgivable DPA is open while Heroes is closed.
- County seat
- Lancaster
- Residents
- 114,296
- Income ceiling, 3+
- $130,985
- Highest price
- $450,000
About buying in Lancaster County
Lancaster County's limits are $113,900 for 1-2 people and $130,985 for 3 or more. That's a step below York County next door, but well above the $95,800 floor used across much of the Upstate.
Lancaster is one of the 12 counties with the 3-year first-time buyer rule. Don't mix up the town of Kershaw, which is in Lancaster County, with Kershaw County to the south. They use different limits and rules.
Lancaster County School District teachers and staff with the sheriff's office, Lancaster Police and Lancaster County EMS fit 2026 Heroes roles, whether they buy in Lancaster, Indian Land, Kershaw or Heath Springs.
Limits that apply in Lancaster County
| Households of one or two | Households of three or more | Highest purchase price |
|---|---|---|
| $113,900 | $130,985 | $450,000 |
Lancaster County uses $113,900 for 1-2 people and $130,985 for 3+, with a $450,000 price cap. You may also consult the statewide table or work out a comfortable price.
Further assistance offered in Lancaster County
Our research turned up no program run only for Lancaster County at present. The statewide choices remain open to you; you will find them in the complete list for South Carolina.
Homebuyer classes near Lancaster County
The federal list of approved housing counselors shows no agency within fifty miles of Lancaster County. Most programs will accept a HUD-approved class taken online, and your loan officer can name one that your program recognizes.
Local employers whose staff may qualify
Among the eligible employers in and around Lancaster County:
- Lancaster County School District
- Lancaster County Sheriff's Office
- Lancaster Police Department
- Lancaster County EMS
Lancaster County School District educators and local sheriff, police and EMS staff matched the 2026 list. The full list of eligible professions
Questions about Lancaster County
Is the town of Kershaw in Kershaw County?
No. It's in Lancaster County and uses Lancaster's limits and the 3-year rule.
What's Indian Land's income limit?
Lancaster County's: $113,900 for 1-2 people and $130,985 for 3 or more.
Can I get help if I own a home now?
Not with the Homebuyer Program here. Palmetto Home Advantage has no first-time buyer rule; your lender confirms what applies.
