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Cost of Living in South Carolina

Is it better to rent or buy in South Carolina? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$73,867
$1,270/mo

Median in area: $1,270

$285,150

Median in area: $285,150

$57,030

If you Rent

🔑
$1,449 /mo
Base Rent$1,270
Est. Utilities$179
% of Income23.5%
Pre-tax Residual$4,707

If you Buy

🏠
$1,906 /mo
P&I (6.858%)$1,496
Taxes & Ins$231
Est. Utilities$179
% of Income31.0%
Pre-tax Residual$4,250

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in South Carolina?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in South Carolina. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,449, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,906 per month (a difference of $457).

How much do utilities cost in South Carolina?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in South Carolina is approximately $179. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in South Carolina?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in South Carolina without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $57,960 per year.