25 Cheapest Places to Live in South Carolina
Best Affordable Places to Live in South Carolina in 2024
Located on the southeast coast, South Carolina offers a mild climate and charming historical towns that draw crowds of urbanites looking for better quality of life. The state is home to many respected universities, including Clemson, The Citadel (The Military College of South Carolina), and the University of South Carolina. Residents who enjoy outdoor activities have everything from subtropical beaches to the Blue Ridge Mountains in the “Upstate” region. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and the average property tax is less than half the national average.
Best Places to Live in South Carolina
South Carolina offers many beautiful cities and towns that combine old-world charm with modern buildings and public spaces. The cost of living in South Carolina is reasonable, and affordable neighborhoods abound in the suburbs of inland cities such as Spartanburg and Batesburg-Leesville. Beach lovers often gravitate to Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island, whereas culture buffs appreciate the history and amenities of Charleston and Rock Hill.
Make sure you look into first-time homebuyer programs in South Carolina to see how you can save money. And if you’re a newbie homebuyer, use our first-time homebuyer guide to learn more about the process before you start shopping.
1. Spartanburg
Spartanburg offers a wealth of arts and cultural amenities, as well as proximity to the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Several colleges and universities are located in the area, and the city is known for its family-friendly vibe.
Population: 38,584
Median Household Income: $45,2281
Cost of Living: 95.8
Median Rent Price: $1,545
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.07
Average Property Tax: 0.64%
Housing Affordability: Rent in Spartanburg is one of the lowest for a fairly urban area ($1,545) and is just below the state median rent prices. The city also has one of the lowest home price-to-income ratios on our list, so homes are more affordable compared to the median household income in the area.
2. Beaufort
Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island, one of a cluster of islands just north of Hilton Head. Residents can take advantage of a slower pace of life while still being able to commute to larger cities such as Savannah and Charleston. You’ll find plenty of waterfront activities, restaurants, and historic buildings in the downtown area.
Population: 13,722
Median Household Income: $53,653
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $2,200
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.93
Average Property Tax: 0.45%
Housing Affordability: While the average property tax is lower than the state average, homes may not be as affordable as some areas on our list because of a higher home price-to-income ratio (4.93). The median rent price is in line with the national average ($2,100). To compete more effectively in the market when home-shopping, think about going through the mortgage preapproval process before your search heats up.
3. Fountain Inn
A former stagecoach stop, the Fountain Inn area is best known for historical buildings and a meandering waterfall in Cedar Falls Parks. The town’s proximity to Greenville and Columbia makes it a good option for those looking to commute to these urban areas for work. Recent renovations to its downtown promise a good balance or preservation and growth.
Population: 11,758
Median Household Income: $72,558
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $1,988
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.42
Average Property Tax: 0.59%
Housing Affordability: Fountain Inn has some of the most affordable housing in the state, with a low home price-to-income ratio. While the average property tax is slightly higher than the state average, the lower housing prices may make up for it. The median rent price is also lower than the national average, with relatively steady demand for housing.
4. Batesburg-Leesville
This town is less than an hour from Columbia, the state capital, making it a great commuter area for those who prefer to reside outside a city. Camping and golfing are just two of the area’s outdoor activities. Batesburg-Leesville also has strong options for public and private schools.
Population: 5,266
Median Household Income: $46,070
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $1,381
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.37
Average Property Tax: 0.57%
Housing Affordability: Batesburg-Leesville offers very affordable housing, both for homeowners and renters. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.37, which means you are more likely to find a home within your means. The median rent, $1,381, is lower than both the state and national averages.
5. Georgetown
This quaint beachfront community is the third oldest city in the state. You’ll find a picture-perfect historical area with small businesses (no big chain stores!), and everything that boating and fishing enthusiasts could wish for.
Population: 8,556
Median Household Income: $42,998
Cost of Living: 97.9
Median Rent Price: $1,300
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.67
Average Property Tax: 0.46%
Housing Affordability: Georgetown has a median home price of $199,500, one of the lowest in the state. Same goes for the median rent, so your dollars can stretch far in this small city. The rental market overall is warming up.
Best Places to Live in South Carolina for Families
Families looking for good schools and easy access to shopping, dining, and activities for the kids may find these five South Dakota cities are a good fit.
1. Charleston
This gorgeous port city draws crowds eager to explore the quaint cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and historic architecture. Around half of the residents are families. The city offers plenty of all-ages fun, such as parks, cultural sights, and festivals scattered throughout the year. Many public and private schools are rated above average compared to the rest of the state. Commuting within the city and to its suburbs is relatively easy.
Population: 153,672
Median Household Income: $76,556
Cost of Living: 98
Median Rent Price: $2,800
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.47
Average Property Tax: 0.5%
Housing Affordability: Homes are slightly less affordable compared to other cities, at a house price-to-income ratio of 5.47. Rent is also slightly higher than the national average, but the rental market is cool overall. (To see what type of home mortgage loan you might qualify for, consider getting prequalified for a home loan before you embark in earnest on your home search.)
2. Rock Hill
Located on the Catawba River, Rock Hill is a booming city with growing art and dining scenes. Close to Charlotte, North Carolina, and near Interstate 77, Rock Hill offers a convenient commute to the city. It’s a great fit for families because of its peaceful neighborhoods and kid-friendly attractions, such as walking trails, parks, and the Main Street Children’s Museum.
Population: 75,349
Median Household Income: $55,706
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $1,592
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.35
Average Property Tax: 0.64%
Housing Affordability: Rock Hill has a home price-to-income ratio of 3.35, which means the city offers affordable housing. The median home price is $187,000 and median rent $1,592, lower than many areas in the state.
3. Fort Mill
Close to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Fort Mill offers a good balance of city conveniences and suburban hush. Parents will appreciate the area’s many top-rated schools, while kids will be delighted by the expansive nature preserves, minor league basketball team, and Carowinds amusement park.
Population: 30,940
Median Household Income: $120,665
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $2,200
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.82
Average Property Tax: 0.64%
Housing Affordability: Property taxes may be slightly higher than the state average, but Fort Mill has a low home price-to-income ratio at 2.82, which could mean you pay less overall. The median rent price is slightly higher than the national average at $2,200.
4. Summerville
In the 1800s, Summerville’s mild, dry climate attracted visitors looking to improve their health. Today, the town offers families — who make up 66.44% of residents — walkable communities and pine-scented parks near the water. Those who intend to commute to Charleston for work can do so easily; Summerville is close to Interstate 95 and other major roadways.
Population: 51,617
Median Household Income: $64,507
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $2,130
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.56
Average Property Tax: 0.67%
Housing Affordability: Some of the more affordable homes in the state can be found in Summerville, with a median price of $229,800 and a home-to-price ratio of 3.56. The median rent is $2,130 with warm renter demand.
5. Greenville
Located “upstate” near the North Carolina border, Greenville has a bustling downtown area with many family-friendly restaurants, breweries, and shops. Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, and walking on the 20-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail, which hosts an annual half marathon. Around 46% of residents are families.
Population: 72,310
Median Household Income: $60,388
Cost of Living: 90.7
Median Rent Price: $1,738
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.57
Average Property Tax: 0.66%
Housing Affordability: Greenville has a lower than average median rent price of $1,738 and the rental market is cool. The home price-to-income ratio indicates homes are still affordable here, although good deals tend to be snapped up quickly. The median home price is $349,300.
Best Places to Live in South Carolina for Young Adults
1. Charleston
As one of the largest cities in the state, Charleston offers plenty of amenities for young professionals, such as trendy restaurants, cultural attractions, and festivals. Commuting throughout the city is easy, and neighboring beaches are within reach for a summer day trip. Residents ages 25 to 44 make a median of $86,889.
Population: 153,672
Median Household Income: $76,556
Cost of Living: 98
Median Rent Price: $2,800
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.47
Average Property Tax: 0.5%
Housing Affordability: Charleston has a median home price of $352,800. Although that’s higher than some of the cities on our list, property taxes are lower. The home price-to-income ratio indicates homes may be less affordable, and the median rent price is higher than the national average. Ready to start home shopping? Visit our home loan help center to learn more about mortgage options.
2. Clemson
Clemson is home to many young professionals who enjoy the balance of urban and suburban life. Not surprising for a college town, trendy restaurants and bars abound. Hard workers who want to relax can head to the South Carolina Botanical Garden, Fort Hill Plantation, or Lake Hartwell, a popular recreation area.
Population: 17,843
Median Household Income: $48,335
Cost of Living: 90.7
Median Rent Price: $1,890
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 6.06
Average Property Tax: 0.59%
Housing Affordability: Clemson has a high home price-to-income ratio at 6.06, making buying a home unaffordable for many. However, the median rent price sits at $1,890 and the market is cool, which could explain why many choose to rent in the area.
3. Columbia
The capital city has much to draw young professionals, from job opportunities to post-work entertainment. You’ll find music venues, an opera house, a philharmonic orchestra, and a number of museums. The Congaree Vista, formerly a warehouse district, has been revitalized with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. 85.6% of residents are white collar workers, and those between 25 and 44 years old earn a median salary of $54,211.
Population: 139,698
Median Household Income: $48,791
Cost of Living: 94.4
Median Rent Price: $1,495
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.95
Average Property Tax: 0.76%
Housing Affordability: For a larger city, Columbia has a reasonable home price-to-income ratio of 3.95. That means homes in the area are generally affordable. The rental market is cool, and the median rent is $1,495.
4. Socastee
Considered a suburb of Myrtle Beach, Socastee offers affordable housing and wild outdoor settings. The Intracoastal Waterway runs through the city, making the area a destination for water sports enthusiasts, and the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge draws hunters, fishers, and photographers to its wetlands. Downtown, you’ll find a wealth of casual restaurants and bars.
Population: 22,213
Median Household Income: $49,179
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: no data available
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.57
Average Property Tax: 0.41%
Housing Affordability: With a median value of $175,800, homes are very affordable. The average property tax is also much lower than the state average.
5. Greenville
Greenville has everything young adults could want, from jobs with high-profile companies to a great bar scene and outdoor activities galore. The city is around 86% white collar residents, with a median salary of $66,151 of those aged 24 to 44. Much of the action can be found on Main Street, but hotspots are popping up in less commercial areas all the time.
Population: 72,310
Median Household Income: $60,388
Cost of Living: 90.7
Median Rent Price: $1,738
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.57
Average Property Tax: 0.66%
Housing Affordability: Greenville has a lower than average median rent price of $1,738 and the rental market is cool. The home price-to-income ratio indicates homes are still affordable here, although good deals tend to be snapped up quickly. The median home price is $349,300.
Best Places to Live in South Carolina for Retirees
1. Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet is several miles from Myrtle Beach, so retirees can enjoy the Coastal Grandma lifestyle without the attendant tourists. This quiet community also has some of the best seafood in the state and several assisted living facilities.
Population: 9,740
Median Household Income: $67,981
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $1,895
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.25
Average Property Tax: 0.46%
Housing Affordability: Murrells Inlet has a higher than average home price-to-income ratio of 4.25 which could mean homes aren’t as affordable as other areas in the state. The median rent price ($1,895) is on par with what others in the state charge.
2. Hilton Head Island
Regularly voted one of the best vacation spots in the world, it stands to reason that retirees enjoy the small island’s beaches and golf courses. Hilton Head has one of the largest populations of retirees, with a median age of 59. The area is very bike friendly, to the point where locals often leave their cars at home.
Population: 38,069
Median Household Income: $87,884
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $3,250
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.92
Average Property Tax: 0.45%
Housing Affordability: The median household income in the area is higher than much of the state. However, homes are unaffordable to many, as indicated by the home price-to-income ratio of 5.92. The median rent price is also higher than average at $3,250.
3. Anderson
Anderson is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in the northwest part of the state. It earned the nickname the “Electric City” for its pioneering use of hydroelectric power. Anderson offers many cultural attractions and top-notch medical facilities as well as the popular Anderson County Senior Citizens Program. The late actor Chadwick Boseman hailed from Anderson.
Population: 29,771
Median Household Income: $37,439
Cost of Living: 90.7
Median Rent Price: $1,295
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.02
Average Property Tax: 0.59%
Housing Affordability: Anderson has average property tax rates compared to the state but has a home price-to-income-ratio of 4.02. This means that homes are somewhat unaffordable in the area. The median rent price is $1,295, much more affordable than other parts of South Carolina.
4. Garden City Beach
Considered a suburb of Myrtle Beach, Garden City Beach offers a slower pace while still providing access to the amenities of more busy areas nearby. Many families return year after year to enjoy the beaches and festive atmosphere. The area is also a prime spot for fishing, crabbing, and watersports.
Population: 10,235
Median Household Income: $46,791
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: not disclosed
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.14
Average Property Tax: 0.41%
Housing Affordability: Homes are fairly affordable in Garden City Beach, with a home price-to-income ratio of 3.14 and a median home price of $147,300. Property taxes are also lower than the national average.
5. Little River
Another suburb of Myrtle Beach, Little River is a quiet town that hosts many retirees. The picturesque fishing community is the oldest of the 14 villages along the Grand Strand. Thanks to a cluster of restaurants and shops on the riverfront — the Little River serves as a natural border between North and South Carolina — residents can stay local or drive over the bridge to Myrtle Beach for more action.
Population: 11,711
Median Household Income: $56,733
Median Rent Price: $1,714
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.62
Average Property Tax: 0.41%
Housing Affordability: Homes are very affordable here, with a median price of $205,400 and a home price-to-income ratio of 3.62. Property taxes and median rent prices are also lower than the national average.
Best Places to Live in South Carolina Near the Beach
1. Myrtle Beach
One of the best known beach areas in the south, Myrtle Beach has a lot to offer. Its best-of-both-worlds location means you’re near amenities like dinner theater and museums but just a short drive from quieter neighborhoods and natural settings (and golf!). A popular resort area, the coast features classic attractions like a boardwalk, aquarium, arcades, an amusement park, and a famous Ferris wheel.
Population: 38,417
Median Household Income: $45,701
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $1,900
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.38
Average Property Tax: 0.41%
Housing Affordability: The home price-to-income ratio is high, meaning that homes aren’t as affordable for residents. However, median rent prices are close to the state average, and the market is cool overall.
2. Mount Pleasant
Offering many dining options, Mount Pleasant is close to Charleston and the more expensive Isle of Palms. While the vibe is decidedly low-key, the area still sports a range of amenities from restaurants and coffee shops to parks and a gorgeous, walkable strand.
Population: 94,545
Median Household Income: $106,216
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $3,200
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.70
Average Property Tax: 0.5%
Housing Affordability: Homes in Mount Pleasant are somewhat affordable, given that the home price-to-income ratio is 4.70. Although the median home price is $499,600 and median rent is $3,200, the higher median household income could make up for it.
3. Beaufort
Situated close to the Georgia border, Beaufort is a small town near the beach offering many restaurants and shopping options in the downtown area. You’ll find festivals and cultural events throughout the year, as well as highly rated public and private schools for families.
Population: 13,722
Median Household Income: $53,653
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $2,200
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.93
Average Property Tax: 0.45%
Housing Affordability: Property taxes in Beaufort are lower than the national average, though the homes may not be as affordable given that the home price-to-income ratio is 4.93. The rental market is warm and the median rent price is $2,200.
4. Murrells Inlet
Torn between the beach and the inland countryside? This small coastal town has a decidedly rural feel. Plus, Murrells Inlet sits between urban Myrtle Beach and Georgetown, providing stimulating day trips. If your interests lean toward sunset cruises and walking trails, however, you may never feel the need to leave this town.
Population: 9,740
Median Household Income: $67,981
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $1,895
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.25
Average Property Tax: 0.46%
Housing Affordability: The home price-to-income ratio for Murrells Inlet is 4.25, meaning that homes are somewhat affordable in the area. Property tax is also lower than the state average. The local rental market is hot, and the median rent price is around the same as what you’d find around South Carolina.
5. Folly Beach
Folly Beach is another small coastal town, situated on Folly Island, great for those who want to live in a more rural setting. Residents can visit nearby islands to observe wildlife (including pelicans galore) and an 1800s lighthouse or drive to Charleston for a taste of culture.
Population: 1,035
Median Household Income: $76,250
Cost of Living: not disclosed
Median Rent Price: $4,500
Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 8.29
Average Property Tax: 0.5%
Housing Affordability: Though property tax is on par with the state, homes aren’t so affordable here. Both the home price-to-income ratio and the median rent are quite high.
The Takeaway
From small coastal towns to urban cultural centers, South Carolina has a wealth of history, culture, and natural wonders. In the north you’ll find the Grand Strand, 60 miles of beaches that end at Myrtle Beach. If Southern hospitality, comfort food, and slow living are up your alley, you’ll find plenty to appreciate in the Palmetto state.
This article originally appeared on SoFi.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org
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