Gaston, SC Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Gaston, SC Utility & Living Guide

Gaston, SC offers a peaceful small-town atmosphere with convenient access to larger cities like Columbia.

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 — Gaston
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Duke Energy
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$45/mo

Gaston Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Waste Management
📶 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 housing market in Gaston is stable with moderate growth. Affordable single-family homes are available, but inventory is limited.

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%.

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
+3% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in manufacturing and retail.
Top Local Concerns
Infrastructure, school funding, job opportunities
🚌 Transit for Families

Limited public transit options; most families rely on personal vehicles.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Gaston Community Park
  • 🎯
    Lexington County Museum
  • 🎯
    Saluda Shoals Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods near Gaston Community Park are popular for families due to their proximity to schools and parks. Areas along Highway 321 offer newer developments.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents must obtain permits for home renovations. Short-term rentals require a license.

Gaston is seeing growth in remote work opportunities. Local businesses are benefiting from increased demand for services.

Financial Tools

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📊 Gaston — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Electric bills rise in summer due to AC usage. Winter heating costs are lower as many homes rely on electric heating.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rate of 1.2%, no local surtaxes specific to Gaston county.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10: Sidewalks are available in newer neighborhoods, but park access is limited. Transit lacks elevator access.

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