Considering a move to South Carolina this year? People who move there often find the Palmetto state more affordable than they expected. While some areas have higher costs, overall, South Carolina is still affordable compared to many other states.
But what is the cost of living in South Carolina? Let’s take a closer look.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- South Carolina’s cost of living remains below the national average.
- Housing and food costs tend to be more affordable than in many other states.
- Utility costs are lower than U.S. norms, while healthcare costs are almost the same.
- Transportation costs can vary depending on city size and commuting habits.
- Income taxes increase as you earn more, and property taxes are among the lowest in the country.
Average Cost of Living in South Carolina
According to the latest data, the average household in South Carolina spends about $46,220 annually, which makes the South Carolina living cost much lower than the national average.
Here’s a breakdown of how major expenses compare:
| Expense Category | Average Annual Cost in South Carolina | National Average Annual Cost |
| Housing | $23,520 | $35,600 |
| Utilities | $6,084 | $5,328 |
| Electricity | $1,494 | $1,644 |
| Gas | $891 | $780 |
| Water | $240 | $468 |
| Internet | $888 | $936 |
| Phone | $1,992 | $1,848 |
| Streaming services | $576 | $576 |
| Food and grocery | $4,200 | $5,021 |
| Healthcare (family) | $24,256 | $25,500 |
| Transportation | $10,477 | $13,174 |
Housing Costs
Home prices continue to rise in South Carolina, but they’re still far from the national average. As of January 2025, the median home value is $294,557. This is a 1.9% rise from last year. Compare that to the national median of $446,300, and it’s clear why many are relocating to South Carolina.
Utilities
In South Carolina, utility bills run a bit higher than the average across the nation, so it’s something to keep in mind when planning your personal finances. On average, utilities cost about $507 per month, while the U.S. average sits closer to $469.
Electricity in South Carolina averages around $124.50 per month, slightly under the national rate of $137. Gas, however, is a bit steeper at $74.25 per month compared to the U.S. average of $72.
Water is also more affordable, costing about $33 per month, while the national average runs closer to $39. This reduces your cost of living in South Carolina per month.
Internet service is fairly comparable at $74 per month, and phone bills are a bit on the higher end at $166 monthly versus the U.S. average of $157.
Food and Grocery Costs
Groceries in South Carolina are much more affordable than the national average of $418.40. Typically, a person in the state spends about $350 per month on groceries.
Healthcare Expenses
Healthcare costs in South Carolina are slightly below the national average, though what you pay can vary depending on your provider, insurance type, and personal health needs.
According to recent data, the average monthly premium for a family health insurance plan in South Carolina is about $24,256 per year, very close to the national average of $25,500.
Transportation Costs
Transportation expenses in South Carolina can range widely depending on where you live and how often you’re on the road. On average, households spend between $10,477 and $17,554 per year on transportation.
That’s slightly higher than the national average of $13,174, making transportation one of the most expensive things considering the SC cost of living. Many households turn to small dollar loan options to handle unexpected car repairs or other emergency transportation costs.
Taxes
South Carolina has a state income tax with rates that increase as you earn more, starting at 0% and going up to 6.4%
Federal income taxes start at 10% for lower incomes and reach 37% for those earning over $626,350.
For married couples filing jointly, the income brackets are doubled.
Sales tax in South Carolina starts at a base rate of 6%, but local taxes can bring that total up to 9%, depending on the area.
Property taxes in South Carolina are among the lowest in the country, with a 0.46% effecting rate on owner-occupied housing value.
What Are the Cheapest Cities to Live in South Carolina?
Looking for affordability? These South Carolina cities offer a lower cost of living while still delivering a good quality of life.
| City | Median Home Value | Cost of Living Compared to the National Average |
| Laurens | $125,340 | 24.5% lower |
| Gaffney | $132,110 | 22.8% lower |
| Orangeburg | $118,250 | 26.1% lower |
| Sumter | $142,670 | 20.4% lower |
| Bennettsville | $109,875 | $28.3% lower |
| Spartanburg | $164,350 | 18.7% lower |
| Florence | $159,220 | 19.1% lower |
| Conway | $179,490 | 17.5% lower |
| North Augusta | $190,600 | 16.3% lower |
| Anderson | $172,830 | 18.1% lower |
South Carolina offers a cost of living that’s generally lower than the national average, especially when it comes to housing, groceries, and property taxes. While expenses like transportation and utilities can fluctuate depending on your location and lifestyle, the overall financial picture is appealing.
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FAQ
What Is the Most Expensive City in South Carolina?
Charleston holds the title of the priciest city in the state. Its cost of living is about 25.4% higher than the state average.
What Is a Good Salary to Live Comfortably in South Carolina?
To live comfortably, you’ll likely need to make around $88,317 per year.
Sources
- Zillow. “South Carolina Home Values.” Zillow. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- U.S. Census Bureau. “New Residential Sales Data.” U.S. Census Bureau. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- This Old House. “Utility Bills 101.” This Old House. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- World Population Review. “Grocery Prices by State.” World Population Review. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- The Wall Street Journal. “Healthcare Insurance Inflation Trends.” The Wall Street Journal. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- eHealthInsurance. “How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?” eHealth. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- Bureau of Transportation Statistics. “Transportation Cost Burden Falls Significantly in 2025.” BTS. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- Tax Foundation. “South Carolina Taxes Overview.” Tax Foundation. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- Tax Foundation. “2025 State Tax Changes.” Tax Foundation. Accessed March 21, 2025.
- BestPlaces. “Cost of Living in Charleston, South Carolina.” BestPlaces. Accessed March 21, 2025.