South Carolina, known as the "Palmetto State", is an affordable growing Southeast state with low property taxes. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Palmetto State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in South Carolina for a single person earning the median income of $56,200/year:
Each category shows how South Carolina compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in South Carolina.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in South Carolina.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in South Carolina:
Housing is the single biggest expense in South Carolina, as it is everywhere. The median home price in South Carolina is $295,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,050/month. With a housing cost index of 79, South Carolina housing is 21% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in South Carolina is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
South Carolina has a state income tax rate of 6.4%. On the median household income of $56,200, you will pay approximately $3,597/year in state income tax ($300/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in South Carolina spends approximately $395/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $988-$1,185/month. The food cost index of 97 means groceries in South Carolina are 3% below the national average.
Gas prices in South Carolina average $3.05/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,830/year in fuel costs.
South Carolina healthcare costs are 3% below the national average (index: 97). The average annual healthcare cost per person in South Carolina is approximately $5,820 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in South Carolina averages $800/month ($9,600/year). This is below the national average, making South Carolina more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in South Carolina find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
South Carolina offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Charleston and Columbia, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all South Carolina financial calculators:
South Carolina (SC) has a cost of living index of 92, meaning it is 8% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 79. The median rent is $1,050/month and the median home price is $295,000. South Carolina ranks #18 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in South Carolina is approximately $73,060/year ($6,088/month). For a family of four, aim for $123,640/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($395/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in South Carolina is $56,200.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in South Carolina is approximately $1,050/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,418/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Charleston, Columbia, Greenville are the most popular metro areas. Housing in South Carolina is affordable compared to the national average.
South Carolina is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 8% below the national average and median rent of just $1,050/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville.
The most affordable areas in South Carolina are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within South Carolina, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Charleston metro) and more affordable areas. Myrtle Beach and Rock Hill tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in South Carolina for a single person is approximately $395 ($988 for a family of four). South Carolina food costs are 3% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in South Carolina is approximately $145. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $319/month. South Carolina utilities are 3% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
South Carolina has a state income tax rate of 6.4%. On the median household income of $56,200, that is approximately $3,597/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.