Cost of Living in South Carolina: What Movers Need to Know (2026)

South Carolina has become one of the most popular relocation destinations in the United States, attracting movers from across the country with its warm climate, low taxes, affordable housing, and growing job opportunities. The statewide cost of living index sits around 91, roughly 9% below the national average, though Charleston's popularity has pushed that city above the mean. Here's a detailed breakdown of what it costs to live in the Palmetto State.

Housing Across South Carolina

The statewide median home price is approximately $290,000, offering remarkable value by national standards. Here's how the major metros compare:

Charleston metro: The most expensive area at a median of about $410,000, reflecting its popularity as a tourism and relocation destination. The peninsula itself runs $700,000+, while suburbs like Summerville offer homes from $280,000.

Greenville: The Upstate's economic engine has a median home price of approximately $290,000. The revitalized downtown is pricier, but surrounding communities offer excellent value. One-bedroom rents average $1,150.

Columbia: The state capital is the most affordable major city, with a median home price around $225,000. As a government and university town (University of South Carolina), it offers stable, budget-friendly living. One-bedroom rents average $1,000.

Myrtle Beach: The Grand Strand resort area has a median around $280,000, with wide variation between beachfront condos and inland developments.

Taxes: South Carolina's Big Advantage

South Carolina's tax climate is one of its strongest selling points for new residents. The state income tax ranges from 0% on the first $3,460 to 6.4% on income above $17,330. Property taxes are notably low, averaging about 0.55% of market value — among the lowest in the nation. A homestead exemption eliminates school district property taxes on the first $50,000 of a primary residence's assessed value for residents 65 and older.

The sales tax is 6% at the state level, with counties adding up to 3%, bringing totals to 6-9% depending on location. Groceries are taxed at a reduced rate. South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits, and retirees can deduct up to $10,000 in retirement income. The overall tax burden is among the lightest in the Southeast.

Utilities, Groceries, and Daily Costs

Daily expenses in South Carolina run about 5-8% below national averages. Groceries are affordable, with staples like milk ($3.40/gallon), bread ($3.20/loaf), and eggs ($3.00/dozen) running under national medians. Utilities average about $150-165 per month, though summer air conditioning in the Lowcountry and Midlands can push bills to $200+. Internet service averages $60-70 per month.

Healthcare costs are moderate, with major medical centers in Charleston (MUSC), Greenville (Prisma Health), and Columbia (Lexington Medical Center) providing comprehensive care. Childcare costs are below the national average, running about $8,000-$11,000 per year for full-time infant care.

Income and Employment

South Carolina's average household income is about $60,000, below the national average but offset by the lower cost of living. Major industries include manufacturing (BMW in Spartanburg, Boeing in North Charleston, Volvo in Ridgeville), healthcare, military (multiple bases), tourism, and a growing tech sector. The statewide unemployment rate is approximately 3.6%.

The state actively recruits businesses with incentives, and recent years have brought significant corporate expansions and relocations. For many movers, the math works: a moderate income in South Carolina buys a lifestyle that would require a much higher salary in higher-cost states.

Bottom Line for Movers

South Carolina delivers exceptional value, particularly for families and retirees. Low taxes, affordable housing, warm weather, and a growing economy make it easy to see why the state's population continues to surge. Choose Charleston for culture and coast, Greenville for economy and mountains, or Columbia for maximum affordability.

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