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Crunching costs, sorting signals, rendering insights.
Crunching costs, sorting signals, rendering insights.
3 cities ranked by cost of living index. Average cost index: 102 vs national avg of 111.
| # | City | Cost Index | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Columbia | 85 | View → |
| 2 | North Charleston | 98 | View → |
| 3 | Charleston | 124 | View → |
Columbia is the most affordable city in South Carolina with a cost of living index of 85 and median rent of $1,459/month. This is 15 points below the national average of 100.
Across the 3 cities tracked in South Carolina, the average cost of living index is 102 (national average: 111). Average monthly rent is $1,752, compared to the national average of $1,895.
South Carolina's average cost index of 102 is 9 points below the national average of 111. The most affordable city, Columbia, has an index of 85, while the most expensive, Charleston, is at 124.
In Columbia (cheapest city), a salary of $50,000–$60,000 typically allows comfortable living with rent under 30% of net income. In more expensive cities like Charleston, you may need $80,000–$100,000 to maintain the same standard. Use our salary checker to see exact calculations.
South Carolina is more affordable than the national average, making it a solid choice for cost-conscious movers.