Cost of Living in Union County, South Carolina
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Union County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Union County, South Carolina
Union County faces affordability challenges nationally
Union County's 22.4% rent-to-income ratio stands well above the national standard, reflecting tight affordability pressures on renters earning a median household income of $41,200. At $770 monthly rent, the county's low wages make housing costs proportionally heavy.
Union ranks among SC's tightest housing markets
At 22.4%, Union County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds South Carolina's state average of 20.1%, placing it among the state's least affordable counties. Despite having the state's lowest median rent of $770, the county's depressed median household income of $41,200 creates affordability strain.
Union offers lowest rents, but lowest income
Union County's $770 median rent is the cheapest in this cluster, undercutting Saluda's $814 and Williamsburg's $769—yet Union's $41,200 median household income is also the lowest. This low-wage, low-rent dynamic creates a precarious affordability balance.
Union's tight income makes housing burdensome
Union renters pay $770 monthly while homeowners spend $494, both supported by a median household income of just $41,200. Housing consumes over 22% of household income for renters—among the highest burdens in the state—leaving little margin for error.
Union demands income stability before moving
Union County's $770 rent and $100,000 median home prices look attractive on the surface, but the low median income of $41,200 means tight budgets. Relocate here only if your income substantially exceeds the county median, or if you're prepared for significant financial constraints.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Union County
Rent Burden
22.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$961
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Union County
Median home value is $100,000. Estimated monthly cost: $798 vs. your max of $961.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.