Cost of Living in Lee County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lee County, South Carolina
Lee County stretches modest incomes thinly
Lee County renters spend 21.9% of their $44,145 median income on housing—the lowest income in this dataset, yet a rent-to-income ratio that exceeds the state average. At just $806 monthly, Lee's rents are affordable in absolute terms, but incomes here are too low for residents to keep pace with regional peers.
Affordable rents can't offset wage gaps
Lee's 21.9% rent-to-income ratio sits above South Carolina's 20.1% state average despite the lowest rents in this entire county group at $806 monthly. The challenge: local incomes are roughly $30,000 below the state median, making even cheap housing difficult to afford on local wages alone.
Competitive rents, but lowest wages regionally
Lee's $806 rent rivals Hampton ($815) as the region's most affordable, undercutting Laurens ($847) and Kershaw ($872) by small margins. However, Lee's $44,145 median income is the lowest here by far, making the county a rental market for those with outside income sources.
Ownership unaffordable despite low home prices
Lee homeowners pay $479 monthly—the lowest ownership cost in this dataset—yet the median home value of $101,900 remains difficult to finance on a $44,145 local income. The low ownership cost reflects modest property values, not affordability, given the severe income constraints.
Lee works only for remote-income relocators
If you're bringing substantial remote work income to Lee County, you'll find unbeatable housing bargains and genuine savings potential. However, if you'll depend on local employment, proceed carefully—Lee's median income is among South Carolina's lowest, signaling limited economic opportunity.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lee County
Rent Burden
21.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,030
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lee County
Median home value is $101,900. Estimated monthly cost: $814 vs. your max of $1,030.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lee County, South Carolina?
What is the median rent in Lee County?
Is Lee County affordable?
How does Lee County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lee County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lee County, South Carolina? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Lee County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.