Cost of Living in Georgetown County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Georgetown County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Georgetown County ranks #2,403 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Georgetown County, South Carolina
Georgetown rents run above national average
Renters in Georgetown spend 21.0% of their income on housing, slightly above South Carolina's 20.1% state average. With median rents of $1,166 and a household income of $66,734, Georgetown reflects its status as a coastal destination with premium pricing.
Upper-tier affordability in South Carolina
Georgetown ranks among South Carolina's pricier counties, with a 21.0% rent-to-income ratio and median rents of $1,166—well above the state average of $945. The county's coastal location and tourism economy drive housing premiums relative to inland peers.
Coastal premium over Pee Dee inland counties
Georgetown's $1,166 median rent substantially exceeds inland counties like Dillon ($692), Florence ($908), and Edgefield ($854). The coastal location commands a pricing premium, though it remains more affordable than Charleston metro areas like Dorchester ($1,381).
Homeownership offers meaningful savings
While renters spend 21.0% of income on housing ($1,166 monthly), homeowners pay $846—roughly 15.2% of the median household income of $66,734. The median home value of $262,300 remains accessible relative to coastal alternatives.
Georgetown appeals to coastal-seeking buyers
If you're drawn to South Carolina's coast and can manage a 21% rent-to-income ratio, Georgetown offers beach access at lower prices than Charleston metro alternatives. Median home values of $262,300 position the county as an attractive option for relocating homebuyers seeking coastal lifestyle.
Cost of Living Advisory: Georgetown County
Affordability Verdict
Georgetown County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,166/month representing approximately 21.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Georgetown County pay $1,166/month on average, compared to $846/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 27%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,257/year. With a median household income of $66,734, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Georgetown County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within South Carolina, Georgetown County is more affordable than Lexington County by roughly 5% ($1,166/mo vs $1,115/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Georgetown County
Rent Burden
21.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,557
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
The median home in Georgetown County may be a stretch
Median home value is $262,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,094 vs. your max of $1,557.
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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