Cost of Living in Oconee County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Oconee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Oconee County ranks #1,797 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Oconee County, South Carolina
Oconee keeps housing costs low
Oconee County's 17.5% rent-to-income ratio outperforms South Carolina's average of 20.1%, supported by solid median income of $60,193 and modest $876/month rent. Households dedicate less than 1 in 5 income dollars to housing—comfortably below national stress thresholds.
Oconee rates well in affordability
At 17.5% rent-to-income, Oconee ranks among South Carolina's more affordable counties, with above-average income and rents well below state median. The county's $217,200 median home value reflects stronger demand and quality of life.
Oconee climbs Upstate ladder
Oconee's $60,193 income and 17.5% rent-to-income ratio mirror Pickens ($59,411, 18.9%) and approach Richland ($61,699, 23.1%), positioning it as an affordable Upstate option. Rents of $876/month are reasonable for the region's growing footprint.
Housing costs for renters and owners
Oconee renters pay $876/month while homeowners spend $721/month on median homes worth $217,200. With income of $60,193, renters dedicate 17.5% to housing, while homeowners enjoy favorable equity potential in a growing market.
Oconee: Upstate affordability hub
Oconee offers Upstate South Carolina's best housing affordability: reasonable rents, attractive home values, and solid income levels near the state average. The county's proximity to Clemson and regional employment centers makes it ideal for professionals seeking balance.
Cost of Living Advisory: Oconee County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Oconee County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $876/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Oconee County is $876/month, while owner costs run $721/month. Owning saves approximately $155/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,900/year. With a median household income of $60,193, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Oconee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within South Carolina, Oconee County is less affordable than Pickens County by roughly 6% ($876/mo vs $936/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Oconee County
Rent Burden
17.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,405
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
The median home in Oconee County may be a stretch
Median home value is $217,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,734 vs. your max of $1,405.
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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