South Carolina cost of living
Can you afford to live in the Palmetto State?
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Choosing to relocate to South Carolina means more than just a change in scenery. For many families, it’s a chance to enjoy a new pace of life, a welcoming climate and rich cultural traditions. But before making the move, it’s wise to understand what your dollars will actually buy — from housing and groceries to health care and utilities.
To determine the cost of living in South Carolina, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in South Carolina spend $49,252 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe median rent in South Carolina is $1,391, versus the national median rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in South Carolina spend $254.36 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $2.82 in South Carolina.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in South Carolina pay $1,527 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in South Carolina
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in South Carolina was $49,252 in 2023. This figure reflects the value of what residents consume each year across housing, health care, food, gas and energy, and other goods and services.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in South Carolina:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $9,420 |
| Health care | $7,244 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $4,293 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $1,808 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $26,486 |
| Total cost | $49,252 |
Housing costs in South Carolina
For most households, housing is the largest monthly expense. In 2025, Apartments.com reports the average rent in South Carolina is $1,391, while the U.S. median rent is $1,639. How much you pay will depend on location and size, but the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey provides a closer look:
- One-bedroom rent: $1,114
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,148
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,202
- Four-bedroom rent: $1,392
For those interested in homeownership, the typical home in South Carolina sells for $391,200, compared with a median U.S. home price of $446,638.
Property taxes are another important consideration. South Carolina’s effective property tax rate is 0.47%, placing it at No. 47 in the nation.
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Food costs in South Carolina
How much you’ll spend on groceries and dining in South Carolina often depends on your shopping habits and meal preferences. The latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates the average household spends $254.36 per week on groceries, compared with $270.21 across the country.
Eating habits make a big difference in monthly food bills. Cooking at home and shopping at local markets can help families keep costs down, while eating out frequently — particularly in popular tourist towns or urban areas — will typically drive expenses higher. In smaller towns, residents may notice more budget-friendly grocery prices and restaurant bills compared with larger cities.
Transportation costs in South Carolina
Transportation costs can have a noticeable impact on your budget in South Carolina. The average price for a gallon of regular gas is $2.82, compared with $3.13 nationally.
Car insurance is another important factor. The average annual premium, which includes liability, collision and comprehensive coverage, is $1,332.17, while the U.S. average is $1,258.
Health care costs in South Carolina
The cost of health care is an important part of planning your family’s budget in South Carolina. Employees typically pay $1,527 each year for employer-sponsored coverage, while employers pick up the remaining $5,901 of the $7,428 total premium.
Nationally, employees pay an average of $1,640 toward a total annual premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in South Carolina
Families moving to South Carolina should plan for utility expenses as part of their monthly budget. The average electric bill is $139.91 per month, compared with $136.84 for the national average.
Natural gas costs in South Carolina are $17.76 per thousand cubic feet, while the U.S. average is $12.92.
FAQ
Does South Carolina have a high cost of living?
No, South Carolina does not have a high cost of living versus the national average. Most essentials, including housing and health care, cost less than in much of the country. However, families may notice that utility costs are higher than in other states, so budgeting is important.
Is South Carolina a good place to live?
Yes, South Carolina is a good place to live if you value a growing population and affordability. The state is one of the most popular destinations for people moving within the U.S. Lower living costs and a strong quality of life for renters help make South Carolina an attractive choice for many.
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Is South Carolina good for renters?
Yes, South Carolina is good for renters. Rent is generally affordable there, and the state ranks in the top 10 for rental quality of life, which makes it appealing for many tenants. However, tenant protections are not as strong as in some other states, so you should review lease terms carefully before signing.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
