South Carolina Living Report — July 21, 2026

Considering a move to South Carolina? You’re not alone. The Palmetto State’s population has climbed to roughly 5.14 million, drawn by a mix of Southern charm, mild winters, and a cost of living that still feels manageable compared to many coastal counterparts. But before you pack your bags, it’s worth digging into the numbers behind the allure.

Affordability is South Carolina’s headline act. The median household income hovers around $63,623 per year, while the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment sits at $1,065 a month. That works out to just about 20% of pre-tax monthly income—well within the standard 30% threshold for housing costs. Homebuyers also find relative bargains: the median home value is $216,200, which is significantly lower than the national median. For a family or a remote worker tired of paying $2,000 for a shoebox in a major city, these numbers are a siren song.

The job market, meanwhile, is humming. As of May 2026, unemployment stood at a low 3.8%, reflecting steady growth in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. The state has aggressively courted businesses, from automotive plants to tech hubs, and the Charleston–Columbia–Greenville corridor offers diverse opportunities. Still, not everyone shares in the prosperity. The poverty rate is 14.0%, a reminder that economic gains haven’t reached every corner. The median age of 40.0 suggests a balanced demographic—not too young, not too old—with a mix of families, empty-nesters, and retirees seeking slower rhythms.

Quality of life here is defined by geography and pace. You can kayak the Lowcountry marshes in the morning and hike the Upstate foothills by afternoon. The weather is humid and hot, but the beaches and golf courses are year-round attractions. The state’s 207 tracked cities—a number cataloged

Explore South Carolina Cities

Browse utility costs, housing data, Census demographics, and climate data for all 207 tracked cities in South Carolina.

View all South Carolina city guides →

Data: US Census Bureau ACS 2022, BLS. Updated July 21, 2026.

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