Cost of Living in Charleston County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Charleston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Charleston County, South Carolina
Charleston's housing costs soar above U.S. average
Charleston renters spend 21.4% of income on housing—slightly above the national 20.1% threshold—with median rents at $1,506 monthly. Yet Charleston's median household income of $84,320 exceeds the national average of $74,755, suggesting higher-earning residents absorb these premium costs.
South Carolina's priciest county by far
Charleston's $1,506 median rent towers 59% above South Carolina's $945 average, reflecting its status as the state's economic and tourism engine. With a median home value of $450,800—triple the typical South Carolina property—Charleston ranks as the state's most expensive housing market.
Charleston dwarfs surrounding county rents
Renters in Charleston pay $1,506 monthly versus $813 in neighboring Cherokee County—an 85% difference that reflects Charleston's coastal desirability. Moving inland or north cuts housing costs nearly in half while remaining within South Carolina.
Owners and renters both stretch budgets
Charleston renters spend $1,506 monthly on housing while owners pay $1,568—remarkably balanced across tenure types—out of a $84,320 median income. For renters, this represents 21.4% of income; for owners, the burden reaches 22.3%, both above comfortable thresholds.
Charleston offers opportunity at a premium price
If you're earning above the county's $84,320 median and value coastal amenities and economic vitality, Charleston's market rewards your income. Consider comparing to inland alternatives like Calhoun or Chester for similar quality of life at significantly lower cost.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Charleston County
Rent Burden
21.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,967
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.3%
of gross income
The median home in Charleston County may be a stretch
Median home value is $450,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,599 vs. your max of $1,967.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.