South Carolina is a state in the Southeastern area of the United States.
This state is in 40th place by size and 23rd in population.
The Palmetto State ( as a nickname for South Carolina) has a rich history with quite a few interesting facts that you probably do not know.
It is known for its subtropical beaches, marshlike sea islands, Palmetto trees, and college football games.
Furthermore, when visiting this state, do not forget to keep an eye out for the legendary lizard man.
And when it comes to food is undoubted that barbecue was born in this state.
In the end – the most popular thing is the cost of living in this state.
Due to that, keep reading this post, and you will find everything about the prices in this state and, furthermore, which cities are pretty expensive in South Carolina.
Below we’ll look at South Carolina’s affordability, from housing to healthcare prices.
Contents
The Cost of Living in This State
When talking about this magnificent state, there is no doubt that everyone is interested in its affordability.
Surprisingly South Carolina has a high sales tax while not so expensive property taxes.
Compared to the national average, South Carolina’s cost of living is 4% less than the U.S average.
Moreover, average home prices and rental costs are below the national median.
For instance, here, the average home value is just $170,050.
That’s one of the lowest numbers in the U.S, so we can sum up that houses here are so economical.
Also, we can for sure say that renting is a likely choice in South Carolina.
Accordingly, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in South Carolina is $780 a month ($190 cheaper than the national average).
On the other side, renting a two-bedroom is $925 ($265 cheaper than the national average).
Utility Costs
It does not matter if you are a renter or homeowner – you’ll assumably have to pay for utilities at your home.
These essentials include electricity, water, gas, and garbage services.
Unfortunately, the average monthly bill in South Carolina is $155.50, which is a really high price.
The average gas bill is roughly $120.30.
Food Costs
Food and grocery costs in South Carolina are just a little less than 3% cheaper than the US average.
While this may seem like a small saving, it’s actually a considerable amount over a year.
That money can go to other things on your monthly budget.
Seeing that, the price of a gallon of milk is $2.15, and you’ll pay much less than $2.50 for a dozen eggs.
Transportation Costs
The average cost per year for drivers and commuters costs around $1,280 to $1,850.
Besides, keep in mind that this does not include the price of automobile insurance — that is an average of $110 per month.
However, in South Carolina, there is always a well-organized transportation system.
Also, transportation tickets for the local bus are at a very reasonable price.
For example, Greenville Buses and Public Transportation – a 7-Day Unlimited Rides Pass is just $1.50.
The 31-Day unlimited rides pass choice is a low-cost value at $45, and you can get a 20-Ride Pass Booklet for $25.00.
Healthcare Costs
Just like utility costs are a little higher than the rest of the country, healthcare costs are too.
However, these costs can vary from city to city.
The Top Five Expensive Cities in This State
Although we have said that South Carolina has a generally low cost of living, several cities run this perception.
In the text below are the most expensive cities – from Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant to Rock Hill.
These cities are the most populated in South Carolina, and in the meantime – the most pricey ones too.
Charleston
The most popular tourist destination in the state is definitely – Charleston.
Charleston also has plenty to offer by nightlife, restaurants, and shopping.
With its sandy beaches and historic downtown, tourism plays a significant role.
In Charleston, the average home value is much higher than $370,956.
Apartments for rent in Charleston have a current average rental price of $1,850.
The cost of utilities in Charleston is slightly beyond the state standard, with a cost index of 105.
The cost of utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water – is about fascinating $199 per month.
Internet services are about $65 a month, while mobile phone service for unlimited talk, text, and data runs roughly $40 to $50 per month.
Columbia
As the capital city of South Carolina, Columbia is a thriving cultural center and is well-suited to all kinds of newcomers.
Columbia is an excellent destination, with plenty of Museums, restaurants, parks, and zoos.
But, the entrances for these activities are pretty expensive.
Also, living in a bigger city, such as Columbia, means that utilities may be slightly more expensive.
Hence, a one-bedroom apartment in Columbia, including bills for electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage – costs about $175 per month.
Furthermore, in Columbia, a meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs about $68.
North Charleston
In North Charleston, the average home price is $220.500, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment per month is $750.
Besides, we can note that utility prices are also higher in this city.
In fact, the utility prices are 20% higher than the national average.
On top of that – grocery prices have enormous costs ( 5% higher than the national average).
Therefore, a fresh loaf of bread is $4.10, a one-liter gallon of milk is more than $3.50, while a carton of eggs (regular 12) is $3.40.
As for healthcare, it is also so pricey.
In short, healthcare in North Charleston is 4% higher than the national average.
So, a one doctor’s visit is $123.44, and a dentist visit – $100.
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is a large suburban city in Charleston County.
It is the fourth-largest city in South Carolina.
Mount Pleasant’s housing expenses are 35% higher than the national average, and the utility prices are 22% higher than the national average.
So, the average home value is above $493,786, which is an unreasonable price.
Even more, here is an interesting note: Nearly three-quarters of its residents own their homes.
Rock Hill
Rock Hill is located in York County and is the fifth-largest city.
People love living in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
But the cost of living in this city is also so high.
The expenses for transport needs, healthcare, groceries are almost equivalent as in the earlier mentioned cities.
That is why we ranked Rock Hill as one of the most expensive cities in South Carolina.
South Carolina Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: South Carolina Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Additional Resources
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