Cost of Living in Fairfield County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Fairfield County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Fairfield County ranks #2,064 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 34%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Fairfield County, South Carolina
Fairfield's rent-to-income ratio strains budgets
Renters in Fairfield County spend 23.3% of income on housing—notably above South Carolina's 20.1% state average and the national comfort zone. With a median household income of $46,972 and rents of $910 monthly, Fairfield presents tighter affordability than most peers.
One of South Carolina's tightest rental markets
Fairfield ranks among South Carolina's least affordable counties for renters, with a 23.3% rent-to-income ratio that exceeds most state peers. The median rent of $910 strains a below-average household income, creating genuine affordability pressure.
Rental burden steeper than Dillon or Florence
Fairfield's 23.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds nearby Dillon (18.9%), Florence (19.2%), and Edgefield (15.3%). The county's lower median income of $46,972 makes its $910 rents hit harder than in wealthier neighboring counties.
Homeownership offers modest relief
While renters spend 23.3% of income on housing, homeowners pay just $619 monthly—roughly 15.8% of the median household income. The median home value of $129,100 suggests ownership remains more affordable than renting in Fairfield.
Fairfield suits buyers seeking equity
If you're relocating to South Carolina and can qualify for homeownership, Fairfield's $129,100 median home value and $619 monthly costs offer strong value. The rental market here is tight, but purchasing a home positions you well relative to local incomes.
Cost of Living Advisory: Fairfield County
Affordability Verdict
Fairfield County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $910/month representing approximately 23.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 34.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $910/month rent versus $619/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $291/month cheaper — a 32% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,529/year. With a median household income of $46,972, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 34.0% of renter households in Fairfield County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Fairfield County sits 7% more expensive than Edgefield County ($854/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Fairfield County
Rent Burden
23.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,096
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Fairfield County
Median home value is $129,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,031 vs. your max of $1,096.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
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.
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