South Carolina continues to be a top destination for families, professionals, and retirees looking for a balance between affordability and quality of life. With a growing job market, scenic landscapes, and a mix of urban and rural living options, it's essential to understand the cost of living in South Carolina to make informed financial decisions.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in 2025, covering housing, transportation, utilities, healthcare, and more. Whether you're moving to the state or already living here, this article will help you navigate South Carolina's affordability landscape.
Housing is a major factor when assessing the cost of living in South Carolina. The state’s real estate market has seen steady growth, with home prices varying by location. According to Zillow, the median home price in South Carolina is projected to be around $360,000 in 2025, though prices in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh tend to be higher.
Renters can expect to pay an average of:
For those struggling with housing costs, there are options for short-term financial help in South Carolina, including rental assistance programs and emergency relief funds.
Additionally, property taxes in South Carolina remain relatively low compared to national averages, making homeownership more attractive.
Utility expenses in South Carolina are moderate, with electricity costs averaging $130 per month for a typical household. Water and internet services add another $80 to $100 to monthly expenses. Rural areas may have limited broadband access, impacting costs.
With rising energy prices, many homeowners are looking for ways to conserve energy at home. Simple strategies like switching to LED lighting, using smart thermostats, and sealing windows can significantly reduce monthly utility bills. South Carolina has been expanding its renewable energy initiatives, with solar power incentives further lowering electricity costs. To check for local energy expenses, visit the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
South Carolina’s transportation costs depend on where you live. In cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, public transportation is available, but most residents rely on personal vehicles.
For individuals needing assistance with unexpected vehicle expenses in expensive cities like Charleston, short-term loans are available through various local lenders, credit unions, and online financial services, offering a great solution for those in need.
The price of groceries in South Carolina remains close to the national average. A family of four can expect to spend around $850 per month on food. Here are some average grocery prices:
Dining out is relatively affordable, with an average restaurant meal costing $15 to $20 per person. However, costs may be higher in cities like Asheville, which has a booming food scene. For national food price trends, check USDA’s Food Price Outlook.
Healthcare expenses are a crucial part of the cost of living in South Carolina, particularly for families and retirees. The state’s healthcare system is ranked favorably for quality, but costs can vary.
South Carolina offers a mix of affordable public education and competitive private school options.
To help manage these expenses, some families use envelope budgeting, a method where cash is divided into categories like rent, groceries, and childcare to ensure disciplined spending.
Taxes significantly impact the cost of living in South Carolina. The state has a flat income tax rate of 4.5% in 2025, making it more attractive than states with progressive tax systems.
South Carolina also offers tax breaks for retirees and business owners, making it an appealing choice for relocation.
South Carolina offers affordable recreation, from hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains to enjoying the Outer Banks.
Outdoor activities like hiking and beach trips are free or low-cost, adding to the state's affordability.
While South Carolina remains an affordable state, some people consider moving to other regions. For example, the cost of living in Hawaii is significantly higher due to expensive housing, imported goods, and higher utility costs. Similarly, states like California and New York have high real estate prices and increased tax burdens, making them far less affordable than South Carolina.
On the other hand, states like Texas, Tennessee, and Florida offer competitive costs of living, with no state income tax in Tennessee and Florida, which can be an advantage for high earners. However, housing costs in certain areas of these states have risen significantly in recent years.
In contrast, South Carolina provides a more balanced cost structure, with affordable housing, moderate taxes, and a growing job market while maintaining a high quality of life.
While costs are rising, so are salaries. South Carolina has a thriving job market, particularly in tech, healthcare, and finance.
Overall, the cost of living in South Carolina remains reasonable compared to many other states. While housing and healthcare costs are increasing, lower taxes and moderate utility expenses balance affordability.
For those considering a move, research specific regions to find the best fit for your budget and lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the mountains, coast, or city life, South Carolina continues to be a great place to call home.
South Carolina is considered relatively affordable compared to many other states, especially those in the West Coast. While housing prices have increased in recent years, the cost of living in South Carolina remains lower than the national average. Lower property taxes, reasonable utility costs, and a strong job market contribute to its overall affordability.
To live comfortably in South Carolina, a single person typically needs to earn around $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on the city. For a family of four, a household income of $85,000 to $100,000 is usually sufficient to cover housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and other essential expenses. Costs vary depending on the city, with places like Charlotte and Raleigh being more expensive than smaller towns.
As of 2025, Mississippi is often ranked as the state with the lowest cost of living, followed closely by states like Arkansas, Oklahoma, and West Virginia. These states have affordable housing, low property taxes, and lower overall living expenses compared to places like California or New York.
The median home price in South Carolina is projected to be around $360,000 in 2025, though this varies by location. Major cities like Charlotte and Raleigh have higher median prices, typically $400,000 to $450,000, while smaller cities like Greensboro or Fayetteville offer more affordable options in the $250,000 to $300,000 range. Rural areas tend to have even lower housing costs.
To live comfortably in South Carolina in 2025, your required income will depend on your location and lifestyle.
