Ruby, SC Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Ruby, SC Utility & Living Guide

Living in Ruby, SC offers a peaceful small-town atmosphere with close-knit community vibes.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$255/mo
1BR Rent$1200/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$320,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Ruby
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Ruby
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Duke Energy
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$45/mo

Ruby Water Authority
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Ruby Waste Services
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead $255/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 Ruby is stable, with modest growth due to its affordability and rural charm. Demand is steady for single-family homes, but inventory remains 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
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in agriculture, small manufacturing, and retail.
Top Local Concerns
Infrastructure maintenance, job opportunities, healthcare access
🚌 Transit for Families

Limited public transit; most families rely on personal vehicles due to sparse bus routes.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Ruby Community Park
  • 🎯
    Ruby Public Library
  • 🎯
    Ruby Splash Pad

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Oakwood area is popular for its quiet streets and proximity to schools. Maple Ridge offers newer homes with family-friendly amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents must adhere to county zoning laws, and short-term rentals require a permit.

Ruby is seeing increased interest from remote workers seeking affordable living. Local businesses are adapting to digital services to meet new demand.

Financial Tools

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📊 Ruby — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer AC usage can spike electric bills by 20-30%, while mild winters keep heating costs low.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Ruby County millage rate is 300 mills, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

5/10: Sidewalks are inconsistent, but parks are accessible. Limited transit elevators.

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