Is South Carolina a Good Place to Live? Explore the Cost of Living and Homes for Sale

Every year, more and more people are choosing to make their home in South Carolina. It’s easy to see why: long stretches of white sandy beach, quaint and historic towns, and a Southern welcome that embraces you the moment you arrive.

But aside from the beautiful views, what’s life in South Carolina really like? Let’s explore why people find the state so appealing, how the cost of living compares, and what the housing market looks like.

Why Are People Moving to South Carolina?

The lifestyle is a big reason people come here. The state enjoys mild winters, so if you’re tired of shoveling snow, you’ll love the weather. Summers can be hot, but a quick trip to the beach or a dip in a backyard pool makes it bearable.

Taxes also play a role. South Carolina doesn’t tax retirement income, and veterans get an extra break since military retirement pay is tax-free. Families also appreciate the fact that everyday expenses—groceries, gas, and even utilities, tend to be lower here than in many other states.

Life here is slower, friendlier, and more manageable compared to the fast-paced lifestyle of northern cities. You can walk the cobblestone streets of Charleston in the morning, have some fresh seafood for lunch, and walk on the beach at sunset. Festivals, live music, and community events provide entertainment for every season of the year.

The Cost of Living: More Affordable Than You Think

The cost of living in South Carolina is less expensive than the national average, and property taxes are also lower than in places like New Jersey or New York. Not taxing Social Security benefits makes retirement even less expensive.

To put it in perspective, a family spending $4,000 a month on housing in a high-cost city would need only about $3,200 for the same lifestyle in South Carolina—saving nearly $10,000 a year.

Healthcare is also reasonably priced, and South Carolina is home to some of the best medical facilities in Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia. The peace of mind of having access to good care without six-figure costs is a comfort for older adults.

Housing Market in South Carolina: A Market with Variety

Now, let’s talk about the housing market. South Carolina’s homes come in many shapes and sizes. Whether you want a small beach cottage, a historic downtown townhouse, or a suburban family home with a big yard, you’ll find it here.

As of 2025, the median home price in South Carolina is about $387,900, up 1.8% from last year. That steady growth makes the market healthy but not overheated. Unlike some states where home prices jump by double digits, South Carolina’s market feels more balanced, which is good for both buyers and sellers.

And homes here often come with extras, big porches, swimming pools, and spacious lots are common features. In Charleston, you might come across 19th-century homes with original charm. In Columbia’s suburbs, modern four-bedroom homes can be surprisingly affordable compared to housing in other states.

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Spotlight on Major Cities

Charleston

Charleston is often considered the jewel of South Carolina. Its mix of history, culture, and modern amenities makes it one of the most desirable places to live in the South. Beautiful old homes, excellent restaurants, and a strong job market keep demand high.

• Median home price: $585,000
• Price growth: -10% in the past year
• Average days on market: 66

It’s not the cheapest market, but buyers are willing to pay a premium for Charleston’s charm, schools, and lifestyle. Popular neighborhoods include Mount Pleasant and Summerville, both offering a mix of historic character and newer homes.

Greenville

Greenville has grown from a quiet mill town into a thriving small city. Its location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains gives it incredible views and outdoor recreation, while the downtown area has been revitalized with parks, restaurants, and events.

• Median home price: $496,730
• Price change: +3.5% compared to last year
• Average days on market: 58

Prices rose modestly this year, which could still present opportunities for buyers. Greenville is also attracting tech companies and young professionals, giving it a fresh, modern feel while still keeping Southern charm.

Columbia

Columbia, the state capital, has a more affordable housing market compared to Charleston or Greenville. It’s also central, making weekend trips to both the beach and mountains easy. The city is home to the University of South Carolina and plenty of government jobs.

• Median home price range: $275,000
• Price change: +2.8% compared to last year
• Average days on market: 30

For many families, Columbia offers a nice balance of cost and convenience. Schools, hospitals, and job opportunities are strong, and you can still find larger homes without stretching your budget too far.

Planning Your Home Purchase

Purchasing a home in this area is largely no different than in other states, but you should do your homework! You can use South Carolina’s mortgage calculator to determine monthly payments based on the price of the home and the amount of down payment you want to make. Counties set their own property taxes, but generally, they are much lower than they are in many other parts of America.

Coastal properties may carry higher insurance costs due to hurricane risk, but most buyers still find them reasonable when compared to overall affordability. If you’re looking at condos or communities with shared amenities, factor in HOA fees too. In larger cities, these often run between $250 and $400 a month.

Jobs and Economy

South Carolina isn’t just about tourism and beaches. Its economy is surprisingly diverse. Boeing manufactures planes here, BMW produces cars, and the state has a continuously growing technology sector that is particularly strong in Greenville and Charleston.

There are also major employers in healthcare, education, agriculture, and defense. The job market remains strong, with unemployment below the national average. Many industries are choosing South Carolina because of its business-friendly climate and available, trained workforce.

Weather and Lifestyle

Weather is another major draw. Winter winters may be warm, cool enough for a sweater, but not brutal. Summers can be hot and humid, but that’s just life in the South. And with lakes, rivers, and beaches nearby, it’s always easy to beat the heat.

The state also receives plenty of sunshine so that activities may be done outside year-round; golfing, hiking, boating, and fishing are common recreational activities. Hurricane season is from June to November, but the vast majority of storms weaken substantially by the time they reach the land, and the state boasts that it has stringent building codes to help keep residents safe.

Final Thoughts

So, is South Carolina a good place to live? For many, the answer is yes. The state has affordable living, stable housing prices, stunning scenery, and a good-hearted sense of community.

Whether you want to live among the historic streets of Charleston, the expanding downtown of Greenville, or the affordable suburbs of Columbia, South Carolina offers an exceptional lifestyle. Explore homes on Houzeo, America’s best home buying website, save your favorites, and share with your loved ones.