Can I Afford to Live in South Carolina?
South Carolina - Warm climate, beautiful coast, and growing job market in Charleston. See median rent, home values, and the most affordable ZIP codes below.
Find ZIP Codes You Can Afford in South Carolina
Enter your salary to see neighborhoods in your budget.
🏠 To Buy in South Carolina
With median home value of $255,000, you'd typically need an income of at least $63,750/year and a down payment of $25,500 (10%).
🏘️ To Rent in South Carolina
With median rent of $1,100/month, you should earn at least $40K/year (30% rent-to-income rule). This is below the US median of $1,163/mo.
💰 Median Income
South Carolina residents earn a median household income of $58,234/year. Rent takes approximately 23% of median income.
Most Affordable ZIP Codes in South Carolina
Ranked by lowest median rent, minimum population 3,000+
Top-Rated Neighborhoods in South Carolina
Highest ZipScore - best combination of safety, schools, and quality of life
FAQs: Living in South Carolina
What salary do I need to live comfortably in South Carolina?
To live comfortably in South Carolina, you'd want to earn at least $39,600/year to rent at the median price without being cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of income on housing). To buy at the median home price of $255,000, aim for a salary of $63,750+.
Is South Carolina expensive to live in?
South Carolina has a median rent of $1,100/month, which is below the US national median of $1,163. Cost varies significantly by city and neighborhood - the table above shows the most affordable ZIP codes in South Carolina.
What is the most affordable city in South Carolina?
The most affordable ZIP codes in South Carolina are ranked in the table above by median rent. Smaller cities and suburbs typically offer significantly lower costs than the major metro areas. Click any ZIP code to see its full neighborhood profile.