Beaufort, SC Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Beaufort, SC Utility & Living Guide

Living in Beaufort offers a charming coastal lifestyle with historic charm and Southern hospitality.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1200/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$320,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Beaufort
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$45/mo

Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Beaufort County Solid Waste & Recycling
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead $305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1200/mo
2 Bedrooms$1600/mo
3 Bedrooms$2100/mo
Median Home Price$320,000
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

The Beaufort housing market is competitive, with demand driven by retirees and military families. Prices have risen steadily due to limited inventory and the area’s desirability as a coastal destination.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6% + County 1% + City 0.5%</p>

South Carolina has a progressive income tax ranging from 0% to 7% based on income brackets.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

Higher = safer
School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+8% (growing)
Political Climate
Red with some Purple tendencies in city limits
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and military support
Top Local Concerns
Flooding, traffic congestion, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Limited public transit; most families rely on cars. Some sidewalks in historic districts but inconsistent elsewhere.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Hunting Island State Park
  • 🎯
    Beaufort Waterfront Park
  • 🎯
    The Sandbox Children's Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Point and Pigeon Point are popular for families with good schools and parks. More affordable options exist in Burton with newer developments.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Beaufort based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Short-term rental regulations require permits in some areas. Flood zone construction has strict building codes.

Beaufort's economy is benefiting from growth in tourism and remote workers relocating for the coastal lifestyle. Home values are appreciating faster than the national average.

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📊 Beaufort — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer AC use can double electric bills from June-August. Winter heating costs are minimal with mild temperatures.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: Beaufort County millage rate ~0.45. No local surtaxes beyond standard rates.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10: Historic areas have sidewalks but uneven surfaces. Good park access but limited elevator infrastructure.

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