14 Cheapest Places to Live in South Carolina

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Are you considering moving to South Carolina?

It’s a true statement that many homeowners face a variety of challenges in finding an affordable home, especially following the pandemic.

It can cause unnecessary stress as the market remains competitive and the prices of homes continue to rise.

The good news is that, with enough research, you can still find your dream home at an affordable price, and South Carolina is no exception.

This guide will provide you with some of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina to help you during your search.

14 of the Cheapest Places to Live in South Carolina

1. Sumter

Sumter is larger than other towns on the list, but it is also one of the cheapest, if not the cheapest, towns in South Carolina.

The population of Sumter is 43,000.

But what about house prices?

The average median home sale price in Sumter is around $138,900.

Moreover, Sumter has one of the largest service-based economies in the state.

In terms of diversity, Sumter is one of the most diverse towns in the state.

Sumter is also full of entertainment.

You’ll find performance venues, museums, and plenty of outdoor activities in Sumter.

2. Lake City

Lake City has an average home sale price of $89,700.

Lake City is one of the smaller towns on the list, as only 5,903 people are living there.

Located just 60 miles from Lake City is Myrtle Beach.

So, if you enjoy surfing and relaxing on the beach, this can be the perfect getaway.

Lake City is also a town full of art. During the April Art Walk, you’ll be able to take a look at various art installations.

It’s truly a gem in terms of affordability and beauty.

3. Bennettsville

Bennettsville is known as one of the state’s first great towns.

Only about 7,000 people are living in Bennettsville, but it’s highly affordable to live there.

The average home price in the city is roughly $79,600.

For those wondering what Bennettsville has to offer, it’s ideal for fishing enthusiasts.

In addition, Fayetteville is located 60 miles away.

Bennettsville is known for being one of the richest agricultural towns in South Carolina.

While the town is much slower-paced, it’s an excellent town to wind down and retire in.

4. Gaffney

Do you love history?

Gaffney may be the perfect place.

It’s also one of the most affordable towns in South Carolina, with the average home sale price being $111,000.

But what else is special about Gaffney?

While exploring Gaffney, you’ll quickly find that there are various historical locations sprinkled throughout.

Several sites in the community are on the National Register of Historic Places, including Revolutionary War Sites, the Gaffney Visitors Center, and the Gaffney History Museum.

Gaffney is a small community but is rich in art culture.

Feel free to check out the City Hall Galleries and the Limestone Galleries.

5. Spartanburg

Spartanburg is located not too far from Gaffney but is a little bigger in terms of size.

Spartanburg offers affordable living, with the average home price being $125,600.

Spartanburg is also a lively place to live, with various community events taking place throughout the year.

Spartanburg has 15 public art exhibits, five performance venues, and 24 creative industries.

The Spartanburg Little Theatre and the Music Trail are located in Spartanburg.

So, besides being affordable, if you enjoy the arts and performance scene, this could be the perfect town for you.

6. Orangeburg

Orangeburg may be a bit on the smaller side in terms of population, but it’s worth adding to your list.

The average home sale price in Orangeburg is $105,600.

Whether you’re looking to downsize your home or start a family, Orangeburg offers plenty of options.

Columbia is located just 37 miles away.

South Carolina University is located in Orangeburg and is also known as one of the oldest towns on the list.

Orangeburg is also home to several attractions, such as the Edisto Memorial Gardens.

Plenty of events take place year-round as well.

7. Union

Whether you’re a retiree or starting a family and looking for a budget-friendly place to live, Union could be the perfect match.

About 8,174 people are living in Union.

For those looking to buy, homes in the area average around $80,700.

Union has seen a lot of growth in the past few years and continues to thrive.

Union is also home to the Union County Museum and the Sumter National Forest.

It’s a small and beautiful town with a lot to offer.

8. Pageland

Pageland is located just on the border of North Carolina and is known as the smallest town in South Carolina.

But besides being the smallest town, it is one of the most affordable for those looking for somewhere budget-friendly to live.

The average cost of a home in the city is about $185,000.

Pageland is a small town, but it has a lot of character.

It is also known as being the watermelon capital of the entire world.

Can you guess what the highlight of the summer is every year in Pageland?

The Watermelon Festival takes place every summer and attracts thousands of people from all over.

9. Anderson

Anderson is much bigger than Pageland, and also bigger than a lot of other towns on the list.

Nearly 28,016 people call Anderson home.

The median housing cost in Anderson is $136,800.

The town has plenty to offer those living here, including a thriving and lively downtown area.

There are nearly seven parks in Anderson, in addition to the SculpTour.

Anderson is also referred to as the Electric City.

The name came from Anderson being one of the first places in the country to have streetlights downtown.

10. Dillon

Dillon also made the list as one of the cheapest places in South Carolina to live.

The average home sale price is $118,500, and nearly 6,384 people are living there.

Dillon is a tight-knit community full of activities and entertainment options for residents living there.

You’ll find a wellness center in Dillon in addition to various senior programs.

It’s known as an ideal place to retire and has a rich history.

11. Greenwood

Greenwood’s average home sale price is around $178,000, making it yet another one of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina.

Greenwood is located right on the border of Georgia and is ideal for both young professionals and families alike.

About 16,000 people call Greenwood home.

Many of the residents living here have a deep love for art.

There are plenty of art centers located throughout the city, better known as the Emerald Triangle.

Greenwood also has various museums, theaters, gardens, and parks.

12. Laurens

Laurens is located in the northwestern part of the state and is also an affordable place to live.

If you would like to live close to Greenville, Laurens is perfect.

Once upon a time, Greenville was considered an epicenter for trading customized clothing.

Today, nearly 9,000 people make up Laurens.

Residents have a deep appreciation for the history and beauty of Laurens.

There are also various attractions located in Laurens, including the Historic District and Baker Creek State Park Trail.

For those interested in buying a home, the average cost of a home is $176,000.

13. Clinton

Next on the list in terms of affordability is Clinton.

Just about 7,624 people make up the town of Clinton.

The median home sale price is $126,502, while the median rent paid is $829.

Clinton is located just between Columbia and Greenville and has an overall cost of living index score of 85.

This score is nearly 8 points below the state’s average.

Clinton has plenty of amenities to offer residents living here, such as Sumter National Forests and Francis Marion.

14. North Augusta

If you’re looking for a town that’s located just north of the Savannah River and is extraordinarily charming and affordable, consider North Augusta.

The population of North Augusta is 24,425.

The average median home price is $235,984, while the median rent paid is $969.

Overall, the cost of living index score is 86.

North Augusta is considered the essence of Southern hospitality.

North Augusta has a lot to offer, including the Living History Park and the Riverview Park Activities Center.

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