Cost of Living in Marlboro County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marlboro County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marlboro County, South Carolina
Marlboro's rent burden vs. nation
Marlboro County residents spend 22.7% of household income on rent, nearly matching Marion County's squeeze and surpassing South Carolina's 20.1% average. With median income at $36,293—just under half the national median—Marlboro renters face above-average affordability stress despite modest rent prices.
Marlboro's affordability standing
At 22.7% rent-to-income, Marlboro ranks among South Carolina's least affordable counties, second only to Marion at 23.1%. The county's $686 median rent falls well short of the state average of $945, but income constraints are the limiting factor.
Marlboro in the Pee Dee cluster
Marlboro's $686 rent sits between Marion's $663 and McCormick's $666, but household income of $36,293 is the second-lowest in this cluster after Marion. Renters here face similar income-affordability pressures as Marion while paying slightly more for housing.
Costs across renting and owning
Marlboro renters pay $686/month while homeowners spend $424/month on a median home valued at $74,500—among the state's lowest. Despite owning being cheaper, the barrier is saving for a down payment on $36,293 annual income.
Marlboro: affordable but tight
Marlboro offers some of South Carolina's cheapest housing, but wage growth is the real opportunity gap here—median income trails most peer counties by $20,000+. Job seekers should look for employers offering above-county-average compensation.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marlboro County
Rent Burden
22.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$847
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marlboro County
Median home value is $74,500. Estimated monthly cost: $595 vs. your max of $847.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Marlboro County, South Carolina?
What is the median rent in Marlboro County?
Is Marlboro County affordable?
How does Marlboro County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Marlboro County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Marlboro 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 Marlboro 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.