Cost of Living in Charleston, SC in 2025

Charleston, SC Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs:The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Charleston has risen sharply to about $1,700 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses:Public transit monthly passes cost around $70, with fuel prices averaging $3.03 per gallon.
• Healthcare Costs:Employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average about $140 monthly with silver plans around $600 monthly.
• Utility Expenses:The monthly utilities total approximately $320, notably higher than national averages.

Charleston, SC is known for its picturesque historic district and growing economy. Many residents and newcomers want to understand how much it costs to live here.

This article breaks down Charleston's cost of living for 2025 covering housing, transportation, healthcare, and more to help with budgeting and relocation decisions.

1. Housing Costs in Charleston, SC

Housing expenses are a major part of living costs in Charleston. Below is the trend of renting a one-bedroom apartment over recent years:

• 2010: Approximately $900
• 2015: Around $1,050
• 2020: About $1,200
• 2024: Increased sharply to $1,632
• 2025: Projected to be $1,700

This consistent rise reflects Charleston's growing housing demand and attractiveness as a place to live.

Given the competitive housing market, those managing hospitality businesses in Charleston need to consider the impact of rising costs on both employees and operations. For insights on how the hospitality industry is adapting to such trends, explore this hospitality real estate market trends article.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Charleston, SC

For prospective homeowners, real estate prices have appreciated significantly in recent years:

• 2010: Median home price about $150,000
• 2015: Rose to $200,000
• 2020: Around $300,000
• 2024: Jumped to $469,100
• 2025: Estimated at $500,000

This price increase highlights Charleston's competitive housing market and growing investment appeal.

3. Transportation Expenses in Charleston, SC

Transportation options in Charleston come at varied costs depending on usage:

• Public Transit: One-way fares average $2.00 and monthly passes cost about $70.00
• Fuel: Prices are near $3.03 per gallon in 2025
• Vehicle Maintenance: Annual average is roughly $1,200

These costs vary depending on commuting distance, vehicle type and transit use.

4. Utility Costs in Charleston, SC

Monthly utility expenses average as follows for a typical residence:

• Electricity: $249.82
• Internet: $70.00
• Total Utilities: Approximately $319.82 monthly

Utility costs here are somewhat higher than national averages, reflecting local rates and climate influences.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Charleston, SC

The typical monthly grocery expense per person in Charleston is around $300. Dining out ranges from casual meals at about $15 to mid-range restaurant meals costing up to $50.

These prices are generally in line with national averages but can vary based on preferences.

For restaurant owners and managers, understanding these food cost trends is vital to strategic pricing and staffing. Learn more about restaurant consumer trends to stay ahead.

6. Healthcare Costs in Charleston, SC

Healthcare expenses include insurance and out-of-pocket costs.

Employer-sponsored health insurance premiums average near $140 monthly, while silver health plans average about $600 monthly.

7. Educational Expenses in Charleston, SC

Education costs vary by institution type:

• Public Schools: Free with funding through local taxes
• Private School Tuition: Averages around $6,000 annually
• In-State University Tuition: Roughly $7,000 per year

Expenses can differ depending on the specific schools and programs.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Charleston, SC

Living in Charleston offers several recreational options with associated costs such as:

• Movie Tickets: About $12 each
• Gym Memberships: Average $27 monthly
• Dining at Mid-Range Restaurants: Around $50 per meal

Annual entertainment spending totals near $2,500, with additional personal care services and miscellaneous goods expenses.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Charleston, SC

Key tax rates impacting cost of living include:

• State Income Tax: Ranges from 0% up to 7%
• Sales Tax: Total rate approximately 9%
• Property Tax: Around 0.5% of assessed value

These taxes influence residents' disposable income and housing affordability.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Charleston, SC

Families with children should anticipate these typical monthly expenses:

• Daycare: About $1,000
• After-School Programs: Roughly $300
• Extracurricular Activities: Around $100

These costs are crucial for budgeting among households with young children.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Charleston, SC

Monthly spending averages include:

• Clothing: About $100
• Personal Care Products and Services: Around $50

Expenditures fluctuate based on lifestyle and personal habits.

12. Insurance Costs in Charleston, SC

Insurance is a key component of living expenses in Charleston:

• Health Insurance: Average monthly premium for silver plans is around $600
• Auto Insurance: Annual premiums average $1,200
• Homeowners Insurance: Approximately $1,500 annually
• Renters Insurance: Around $200 annually

Insurance costs vary by coverage and individual circumstances.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Charleston, SC

Additional annual costs contributing to living expenses include:

• Entertainment: Around $2,500
• Personal Care Services: Approximately $600
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Close to $700

These expenses depend on personal preferences and lifestyle choices.

14. Income and Salaries in Charleston, SC

Median household incomes in Charleston have increased steadily over the years:

• 2010: Around $46,000
• 2015: Approximately $50,000
• 2020: Around $57,760
• 2023: Increased to about $83,891
• 2025: Projected near $90,000

These growing income levels reflect Charleston's economic development.

For hospitality employers looking to understand wage expectations within the local market, checking out our comprehensive hospitality wages guide for 2025 can provide valuable benchmarks and insights.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Comparing Charleston’s cost of living to the national average reveals several differences:

• Overall Cost: Approximately 2% higher than national average
• Housing: About 4% higher
• Utilities: Roughly 14% above average
• Food: Around 2% higher
• Healthcare: Approximately 14% lower
• Transportation: About 5% below average
• Goods & Services: Close to 1% higher

Understanding these variances aids in budgeting and financial planning for residents or future movers.

Our Methodology for Charleston, SC Cost of Living Figures

We compiled this cost of living breakdown using trusted sources including government data, recent market reports, and cost indices such as Numbeo, Zillow, BLS and local economic studies. Certain figures were estimated where exact data was unavailable to provide the most accurate overview possible.

Charleston, SC Cost of Living: Conclusion

The cost of living in Charleston, South Carolina in 2025 reflects a growing city with rising housing prices and higher utility bills than the national average.

Transportation and healthcare costs offer some relief being below or near average, while incomes have risen to offset these expenses somewhat.

Understanding these factors is essential for residents and those considering relocating. Proper financial planning can help navigate the city's dynamic cost landscape effectively.

If you are planning to hire or retain hospitality staff in Charleston, consider implementing strategies to reduce employee turnover to maintain a stable workforce amid rising living costs.