Cost of Living in South Carolina in 2025

South Carolina Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is projected to reach $1,025 in 2025, with median home prices around $300,000.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit fares average $2.00 per ride with monthly passes costing about $70, while fuel costs are around $3.11 per gallon.
• Healthcare Costs: Employer-sponsored and Silver plan health insurance premiums average about $2,100 monthly in 2025.
• Cost Comparisons: South Carolina's overall cost of living is approximately 9% lower than the national average, especially in housing and transportation.

South Carolina offers a relatively affordable lifestyle, with key expenses like housing and transportation notably below national averages. Understanding these costs helps residents and newcomers plan their budgets accordingly.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of living costs in South Carolina, covering housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare and more as of 2025.

1. Housing Costs in South Carolina

Housing plays a critical role in South Carolina's overall cost of living. Here's a look at the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment:

• 2010: $700
• 2015: $850
• 2020: $950
• 2024: $1,008
• 2025: $1,025 (projected)

Rent prices have steadily increased over the past decade, indicating growing demand and rising housing expenses in the state.

For those interested in how rising costs impact hospitality businesses and what strategies can help, explore effective restaurant staff hiring methods to balance your budget.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in South Carolina

For those interested in purchasing a home, here is the historical median home price data:

• 2010: $150,000
• 2015: $180,000
• 2020: $216,200
• 2024: $294,557
• 2025: $300,000 (estimated)

These numbers reflect substantial appreciation, making homeownership an important financial consideration for residents.

Considering real estate trends, hospitality businesses can gain insights from hospitality real estate market trends for strategic location planning.

3. Transportation Expenses in South Carolina

Transportation costs include public transit fares, fuel and vehicle upkeep:

• Public Transit One-way Fare: $2.00
• Public Transit Monthly Pass: $70.00
• Fuel Cost per Gallon: $3.11 (2025 avg)
• Annual Vehicle Maintenance: $1,200

Choosing the right commute and transit methods can influence overall transportation expenses significantly.

4. Utility Costs in South Carolina

Monthly utility expenses typically include:

• Electricity: $124.50
• Internet: $74.00
• Total Utilities Average: $507.00

Utility costs vary depending on usage and service providers but are an essential part of monthly budgeting.

For hospitality employers looking to reduce overhead, reviewing restaurant utility costs can identify potential savings.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in South Carolina

Monthly grocery costs per person average around $350.00, with dining out options as follows:

• Casual Meal: $15
• Mid-range Restaurant Meal: $50

These costs align closely with national averages, making South Carolina neither particularly expensive nor cheap for food.

6. Healthcare Costs in South Carolina

Healthcare expenditures can vary depending on insurance plans and medical needs:

• Employer-Sponsored Insurance: An average monthly cost of $2,021.33
• Silver Plan Insurance: Approximately $2,100 per month

These costs indicate relatively high healthcare insurance premiums compared to other expense categories.

7. Educational Expenses in South Carolina

Education costs differ based on institution and level:

• Public Schools: Generally free, funded by taxes
• Private Schools: Average tuition around $10,000 per year
• In-State University Tuition: Estimated at $12,000 annually

These figures provide a framework for families budgeting for education.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in South Carolina

Entertainment and recreational expenses include:

• Movie Ticket: $12
• Gym Membership: $40 per month
• Meal at Mid-Range Restaurant: $50
• Annual Entertainment Spending: $2,000
• Personal Care Services: $600 annually
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $500 per year

Leisure expenses contribute to quality of life and vary with personal choices.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in South Carolina

Key tax information includes:

• State Income Tax Rate: Ranges from 0% to 6.4%
• Sales Tax: Between 6% and 9%
• Property Tax Rate: Approximately 0.57%

These rates affect living costs and government services.

For restaurant owners, understanding tax tips for restaurant owners helps optimize financial management.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in South Carolina

Childcare and related family expenses average:

• Daycare: $800 per month
• After-School Programs: $300 monthly
• Extracurricular Activities: $100 monthly

Family budgeting should incorporate these expenses when planning.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in South Carolina

Typical monthly expenditures include:

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

These costs reflect average spending habits for residents.

12. Insurance Costs in South Carolina

Insurance premiums in 2025 are estimated as follows:

• Health Insurance: $2,100 monthly
• Auto Insurance: $1,200 annually
• Homeowners Insurance: $1,500 annually
• Renters Insurance: $200 annually

Insurance coverage is a vital part of financial protection.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in South Carolina

Other relevant costs include:

• Entertainment: $2,000 annually
• Personal Care Services: $600 annually
• Miscellaneous Goods and Services: $500 annually

These categories encompass a broad range of day-to-day expenditures.

14. Income and Salaries in South Carolina

The median household income has grown steadily:

• 2010: $45,000
• 2015: $50,000
• 2020: $63,623
• 2023: $66,818
• 2025: $70,000 (projected)

Rising incomes parallel increases in living costs and economic growth.

For anyone looking to understand income trends specific to hospitality roles, learn more about hospitality wages in 2025.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Compared to United States averages, South Carolina's cost of living differs in several categories:

• Overall: Approximately 9% lower
• Housing: About 18% lower cost
• Utilities: 10% higher than national average
• Food: On par with national averages
• Healthcare: Similar to national levels
• Transportation: 7% lower expenses
• Goods & Services: About 11% lower

These contrasts help individuals gauge affordability and lifestyle expectations.

Our Methodology for South Carolina Cost of Living Figures

To compile this analysis, we utilize multiple trusted data sources including government reports, economic databases, housing market analyses and cost of living indexes. Where precise numbers are unavailable, estimates based on related indicators have been applied for accuracy.

South Carolina Cost of Living: Conclusion

South Carolina offers a cost of living notably lower than the national average, particularly in housing and transportation, making it appealing for budget-conscious residents and families.

While utilities and healthcare costs remain in line with nationwide figures, the state's growing economy and increasing incomes suggest continued shifts in affordability.

Understanding the detailed breakdown of expenses is essential for newcomers and current residents to manage finances and thrive in South Carolina's diverse communities.

Employers looking to attract top talent in South Carolina might find helpful insights in the top tips for hiring servers, key to keeping hospitality businesses running smoothly even with evolving living costs.