10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Carolina in 2026

10 mins readNov 28, 2025
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Want coastal charm without Charleston’s tourist-level prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Palmetto State if you know where to look.

Your perfect home could be a coastal-style house in Conway or ranch homes in Dillon, South Carolina’s railroad hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Aiken to enjoy an equestrian estate lifestyle, with median home prices under $288,700.

After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in South Carolina to help you find a home that fits your budget.

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Key Takeaways

  • Bennettsville is the most affordable city: Bennettsville’s cost of living is 13% lower than the state average.​ With a median home price of $147,450, it is the cheapest place to live in South Carolina.
  • Florence is the best city for young professionals: Recognized as the “Top Work Places” in the state, Florence is a prime spot to build a career.
  • For families, Gaffney is a great choice: With top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and robust healthcare, Palatka is an ideal place to raise a family on a budget.
  • Retirees should consider Aiken : Retirees can enjoy a relaxed equestrian lifestyle, with homes typically ranging from $310,000 to $445,000.
  • Don’t forget South Carolina’s wind and flood : Homeowners in coastal and near-coastal areas often face wind and hail deductibles of 1%–5% of the home’s value.

10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Carolina in 2025

CityMedian Home ValueMedian House RentCost of Living Compared to State AverageAffordability Score (out of 10)
1. Bennettsville$147,450$85013% ⬇️8.4
2. Union$155,800 $6319% ⬇️8.4
3. Dillon $201,500$1,01626% ⬇️8.2
4. Orangeburg$199,999$1,10312% ⬇️7.7
5. Newberry$172,450 $1,20010% ⬇️7.5
6. Gaffney$235,950$1,0182% ⬇️7.3
7. Florence$253,750$1,1948% ⬇️6.8
8. Aiken$288,700$1,2545% ⬇️6.2
9. Laurens$306,000$1,2547% ⬇️6.1
10. Conway$287,000$1,8003% ⬇️5.1

How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in South Carolina

To identify the cheap places to live in South Carolina, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.

Data Sources:

  • Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s South Carolina Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the SC Center For Real Estate report.
  • Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
  • Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in South Carolina Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.

We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.

All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.

Affordability Scoring:

We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:

  • Median Home Price (40%)
  • Median Rent (35%)
  • Cost of Living (25%)

This way, we can clearly show which South Carolina cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.

Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.

10 Most Affordable Places to Live in South Carolina

#1 Bennetsville
  • Median Home Price: $147,450
  • Median Home Rent: $850
  • Cost of Living: 13% ⬇️ than the state average.
city image
8.4/10
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8.4/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Bennettsville offers a suburban-rural mix lifestyle, bolstered with eight public parks like the Kidsland Fun Park with playgrounds and grills. Residents have access to good schooling and local amenities at the Bennettsville Community Center and is the cheapest place to live in South Carolina.

  • East Bennettsville: East Bennettsville features a residential suburban vibe with historic Georgian-style homes. The neighborhood is close to local schools like Marlboro County High School, Lindsay Park, and shopping centers.
  • Academy Road Area: This area provides a mix of established homes and newer constructions, with access to highway 15/401. It’s valued for its quiet streets and proximity to Lake Paul Wallace, a 600-acre recreational area.
  • Marlboro Neighborhood: Marlboro Neighborhood is known for its rural charm and spacious properties. Residents enjoy a tranquil environment while remaining within reach of Bennettsville Community Center.
  • Job Market: Bennettsville offers jobs mainly in healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. The economy is recovering from recent manufacturing layoffs, but there are over 5,000 jobs available locally.
  • Recreation: The city provides cultural and entertainment activities like live plays and musical performances at the Marlboro Civic Center. The city also hosts festivals such as the annual Jubilee Arts Festival, Scarecrow Fest, and summer beach blasts.
  • Economic Challenges: Bennettsville faces limited industry diversity and high unemployment rates, with Marlboro County standing at 8.4%.
  • Crime Concerns: The city experiences high crime rates of about 995 per 100,000 people, including both violent and property crimes.
  • Healthcare Access: Loss of the local hospital and limited medical facilities require residents to travel for many healthcare services.
#2 Union
  • Median Home Price: $155,800
  • Median Home Rent: $631
  • Cost of Living: 9% ⬇️ than the state average.
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8.4/10
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8.4/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Union is one of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina. The city features community spots like the Timken Sports Complex, schools, and a historic Downtown Union. Moreover, parks like Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site provide accessible green space.

  • Downtown Union: The vibrant heart of Union features historic architecture, local shops like Union Coffee Company, and community events. It’s also provides easy access to services and entertainment at Timken Sports Complex.
  • Monarch Mill: This neighborhood offers a tranquil lifestyle characterized by spacious lots, low traffic, and proximity to Crooked Creek Park Close. It’s popular with families and young people who value peace and privacy.
  • Buffalo: A quiet residential area on Union’s outskirts, Buffalo offers affordable homes surrounded by nature. It’s close to Buffalo Elementary School and Mary McLeod Bethune Park.
  • Job Market: Union has a growing job market with key employers like Carlisle Finishing, Conso International, and Timken USA. Manufacturing, healthcare, and retail sectors provide steady employment opportunities for residents.
  • Recreation: The city offers hiking and camping along segments of the Palmetto Trail and canoeing on the Broad, Tyger, and Enoree Rivers. Cross Keys Plantation provides history museum exhibits, while Woods Ferry Recreation Area supports nature exploration.
  • Economic Growth: While stable, economic growth in Union can be slow, limiting new business opportunities and broader job diversification.
  • Housing Market: Demand is steady due to population growth and investment interest however, inventory is somewhat limited.
  • Youth Retention: Keeping young adults in Union is challenging due to limited higher education and career opportunities locally.
#3 Dillon
  • Median Home Price: $201,500
  • Median Home Rent: $1,016
  • Cost of Living: 26% ⬇️ than the state average.
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8.2/10
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8.2/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

The town offers a quiet, community-focused lifestyle with Little Pee Dee State Park and proximity to Sunset Beach and Surfside Beach. The blend of low prices and small-town charm makes it a great choice as a cheapest city in South Carolina.

  • Downtown Dillon: The heart of Dillon, this vibrant neighborhood features charming architecture and a mix of local shops, eateries. Cultural landmarks like the Dillon County Courthouse and James W. Dillon House Museum also attracts a crowd.
  • Latta: Known for its rich history and well-preserved buildings like the Dillon County Museum and 1915 Latta Library. It’s easy access via highways supports its rural charm and brings in a crowd to South of the Border in Hamer.
  • Dillon West: A tranquil residential area, Dillon West provides affordable homes in a quiet setting with convenient access to schools like Stewarts Heigh Elementary and Dillon High School. F0r parks and recreation, it has Pee Dee State Park and Harmon Field.
  • Job Market: Besides being the most affordable places to live in South Carolina, it has a diverse job market with major employers like Walmart, Food Lion, McLeod Medical Center, and Perdue Foods, boosted by logistics through Inland Port Dillon.
  • Recreation: In addition, to being the cheapest city to live in South Carolina, residents enjoy the 54 acre Lake Norton for picnicking, community events like Thanksgroovin’ Eve Marketplace, parades, and art shows.
  • Flooding and Infrastructure: Dillon faces ongoing flooding issues during heavy rains and hurricanes, prompting local authorities to invest in a major $8 million stormwater improvement project to upgrade drainage systems and reduce flood damage
  • Limited Entertainment Options: Dillon offers limited upscale dining, nightlife, and shopping compared to larger cities, making entertainment options somewhat sparse.
  • Car Dependency: Public transit is minimal, so a personal vehicle is essential for commuting and errands.
#4 Orangeburg
  • Median Home Price: $208,500
  • Median Home Rent: $1,138
  • Cost of Living: 21% ⬇️ than the national average.
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7.7/10
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7.7/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Residents enjoy access to parks like Edisto Memorial Gardens and proximity to good schools in School District 4 and 5. Orangeburg combines quaint appeal alongside convenience, making it a solid choice for affordable living without compromising quality of living.

  • Brookdale: This neighborhood offers a mix of established and newer homes with a moderate-income community. It’s known for short commute times, nearby parks like Orangeburg Community Park, and local schools like Robert E. Howard Middle School.
  • Wilkinson Heights: Wilkinson Heights provides a peaceful residential setting with affordable housing options. The 3,000 residents community values neighborly spirit and access to essential amenities like schools, restaurants, and medical care.
  • Edisto: Located close to North Fork of the Edisto River, Edisto offers quiet living with scenic surroundings. It’s perfect for residents who appreciate outdoor activities and seek a tranquil neighborhood atmosphere.
  • Job Market: Orangeburg’s job market is diverse, with key employers in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Recent projects, like a $280M clean energy investment, are creating new jobs.
  • Recreation: The Edisto Memorial Gardens features thousands of roses and scenic river views, hosting the popular annual Festival of Roses adding to the city’s vibrant community life.
  • Infrastructure: Some areas need upgrades to roads, utilities, and public services, which can affect daily convenience.
  • Healthcare Access: Limited healthcare facilities and specialists mean residents sometimes travel outside the city for specialized care.
  • Public Transportation: Minimal public transit options mean most residents depend on personal vehicles for commuting and errands.
#5 Newberry
  • Median Home Price: $172,450
  • Median Home Rent: $1,200
  • Cost of Living: 10% ⬇️ than the state average.
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7.5/10
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7.5/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Newberry offers a great community with beautiful parks like the Lynch’s Woods Park, cultural events like Newberry Oktoberfest, and good schools. It also provides access to inexpensive beach living, making it a great choice for those seeking value and lifestyle variety.

  • Newberry College: This neighborhood offers historic charm and a welcoming community influenced by nearby Newberry College, ideal for students and families. It’s also near some of South Carolina’s cheapest places to live near the ocean, adding to its appeal.
  • City Center: The vibrant heart of the town features historic architecture, local shops like the Berry Patch Boutique, and community events at the Newberry Opera House.
  • Helena: This quiet neighborhood offers some of the cheapest places to buy a home in the region. It offers proximity to Newberry’s broader amenities, like easy access to major highways, shopping centers, parks like Lynch’s Woods, and community events such as Oktoberfest.
  • Job Market: Newberry is one of South Carolina’s most affordable places to live, with a diverse job market including major employers like Kraft Heinz, Samsung, Walmart, and several manufacturing companies.
  • Recreation: Residents enjoy historic architecture such as Old Newberry County Courthouse, vibrant cultural events at the Newberry Opera House, parks, and community spaces, with new investments enhancing recreational facilities such as splash pads, skate parks, and an amphitheater.
  • Economic Dependence: Heavy reliance on a few major employers makes the local job market vulnerable to economic shifts.
  • Healthcare Access: Limited healthcare facilities and specialists in the area mean residents often face long travel times for medical care. High uninsured rates and transportation barriers further restrict timely access to essential health services.
  • Education: Limited advanced education opportunities affect workforce development and can influence family relocation decisions.
#6 Gaffney
  • Median Home Price: $172,450
  • Median Home Rent: $1,200
  • Cost of Living: 2% ⬇️ than the state average.
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8.1/10
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8.1/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Residents benefit from good schools, parks, and convenient local amenities like the tennis courts in the Thompson Park. The city blends comfort with everyday convenience, making it an appealing choice for affordable living without sacrificing quality of life.

  • Grassy Pond: This neighborhood features affordable homes in a quiet, residential setting. It features Grassy Pond Elementary School , McCluney Park, and shopping, making it popular with families and retirees.
  • East Gaffney: East Gaffney provides a mix of older and newer homes with a strong sense of community. Its convenient location near downtown and local businesses appeals to working families and first-time homeowners.
  • Macedonia / Thicketty: These adjoining neighborhoods offer a rural feel with larger lots and natural surroundings. They attract residents who enjoy peaceful living while being within a short drive to Gaffney’s amenities.
  • Job Market: The city offers job opportunities in manufacturing, retail, education, and healthcare. Major employers include International Paper, Gaffney Medical Center, and local schools, providing a steady employment base for residents.
  • Recreation: Residents enjoy access to parks, sports complexes, and community centers. Nearby natural areas like Cherokee Rock Village offer hiking and rock climbing, while local festivals like the South Carolina Peach Festival foster a tight-knit community atmosphere.
  • Environmental Concerns: Occasional issues with flooding or industrial pollution may affect some areas.
  • Public Amenities: Availability of certain amenities such as entertainment venues and specialty shopping can be limited compared to larger cities.
  • Economic Growth: Limited growth opportunities can restrict new business development and job diversity.
#8 Aiken
  • Median Home Price: $313,000
  • Median Home Rent: $1,293
  • Cost of Living: 15% ⬇️ than the national average.
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6.6/10
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6.6/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Known for its small-town appeal, Aiken features a variety of affordable homes, with cheap homes for sale in Aiken attracting families, retirees, and first-time buyers. Residents enjoy quality schools, accessible healthcare, and plentiful parks and recreational options. With its welcoming community and budget-friendly living, Aiken offers an ideal setting for people looking to buy homes in South Carolina.

 

  • Woodside Plantation: Woodside Plantation offers affordable homes on quiet streets with nearby schools and parks, ideal for families and retirees.
  • Houndslake: Houndslake features spacious homes in a peaceful setting, with easy access to shopping and recreation.
  • Downtown Aiken: Downtown Aiken blends historic charm with modern homes, walkable streets, and local shops, perfect for young professionals and small families.
  • Job Market: Aiken’s job market includes opportunities in healthcare, education, retail, and equestrian-related industries. The city also benefits from nearby manufacturing and service jobs, offering steady employment for residents.
  • Recreation: Aiken provides abundant recreational options, including parks, golf courses, and equestrian facilities. Residents enjoy walking trails, community events, and local festivals that foster a strong small-town community spirit.
  • Limited Public Transit: Aiken has minimal public transportation, making a car essential for commuting and daily errands.
  • Seasonal Tourism Impact: Some local businesses and jobs fluctuate with the equestrian and tourism seasons, affecting income stability.
  • Flooding in Low-Lying Areas: Certain neighborhoods may experience occasional flooding, especially near rivers and creeks.
#10 Florence
  • Median Home Price: $350,000
  • Median Home Rent: $1,194
  • Cost of Living: 15% ⬇️ than the national average.
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6.4/10
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6.4/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Florence offers a range of affordable housing options, with cheap homes for sale in Florence attracting first-time buyers and families alike. Residents benefit from quality schools and healthcare. With its blend of convenience in commuting, essential amenities and affordability, Florence provides an excellent choice buyers looking for houses in South Carolina.

  • West Florence: West Florence offers affordable homes with easy access to schools, parks, and shopping. It’s popular with families and first-time buyers seeking a convenient, community-focused lifestyle.
  • Downtown Florence: Downtown Florence blends historic charm with modern homes near restaurants, shops, and cultural spots. It’s ideal for young professionals and small families.
  • North Florence: North Florence features spacious homes on quiet streets, with nearby schools, parks, and shopping. It appeals to families and retirees seeking comfort and convenience.
  • Job Market: Florence has a diverse job market with opportunities in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Its proximity to major highways and nearby industrial hubs provides steady employment options for residents.
  • Recreation: Florence offers parks, walking trails, and outdoor activities along the Great Pee Dee River. The city hosts local festivals, farmers’ markets, and cultural events that strengthen community engagement.
  • Limited Public Transit: Florence has minimal public transportation, making a car essential for commuting and errands.
  • Flood-Prone Areas: Some neighborhoods near the Pee Dee River may face occasional flooding during heavy rains or storms.
  • Crime Pockets: While generally safe, select areas have higher-than-average property crimes, so careful neighborhood selection is advised.
#9 Laurens
  • Median Home Price: $175,000
  • Median Home Rent: $1,697
  • Cost of Living: 7% ⬇️ than the national average.
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6.6/10
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6.6/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Laurens offers a variety of affordable homes, with people opting for the cheap homes for sale in Laurens for its affordability, convenient location and the community spirit. Residents enjoy access to quality access to schools and good healthcare. With Lauren’s affordability in hand, its one of the cheapest cities in South Carolina.

  • Laurens Historic District: Offers charming older homes, walkable streets, and close access to schools and shops.
  • South Harper Historic District: Features a mix of renovated and traditional homes in a quiet, community-focused neighborhood.
  • Hidden Hills: Known for spacious modern homes, peaceful surroundings, and proximity to parks, schools, and shopping.
  • Job Market: Laurens’ job market includes opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail. Its location near Greenville and other regional hubs provides additional employment options for residents.
  • Recreation: Laurens offers parks, walking trails, and outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking nearby. Local events and community festivals foster a welcoming and engaged small-town atmosphere.
  • Crime Pockets: While generally safe, certain areas see occasional property crimes, making careful neighborhood selection important.
  • Limited Entertainment Options: Compared with larger cities, Laurens has fewer dining, shopping, and cultural amenities.
  • Aging Infrastructure: Some parts of the city have older roads, utilities, and facilities that may need maintenance or upgrades.
#7 Conway
  • Median Home Price: $170,500
  • Median Home Rent: $1,293
  • Cost of Living: 7% ⬇️ than the national average.
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7/10
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7/5

💡 Our Take
📍 Neighborhoods
🎉 Jobs & Fun
🚩 Dealbreakers

Conway offers affordable living with a wide range of affordable homes. With many cheap homes for sale in Conway, it is an attractive choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The city combines small-town charm with convenient access to the renowned Myrtle Beach. Residents enjoy quality schools and a balanced lifestyle, making Conway one of the cheapest ocean cities to live in South Carolina.

Carolina Forest: Carolina Forest is a thriving suburban area offering affordable homes with modern amenities. The neighborhood features excellent schools, parks, and shopping centers, making it ideal for families and young professionals seeking convenience and community near Myrtle Beach.

Downtown Conway: Downtown Conway blends historic charm with affordability, featuring cozy homes and renovated properties close to the Waccamaw River. Residents enjoy walkable streets, local shops, and dining options, making it perfect for those who appreciate small-town living with easy access to city amenities.

Wild Wing Plantation: Wild Wing Plantation offers affordable yet upscale living with beautiful homes surrounding golf courses and lakes. The area is peaceful and well-maintained, appealing to retirees and families who want scenic surroundings, recreational opportunities, and proximity to Conway’s top attractions.

Job Market: Conway’s job market is diverse, with opportunities in education, healthcare, retail and tourism. Thanks to its proximity to Myrtle Beach, hospitality and service industries also play a major role, providing steady employment for residents across various skill levels.

Recreation: Conway offers plenty outdoor activities, from scenic walks along the River walk to kayaking on the Waccamaw River. The city hosts local festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events fostering a friendly atmosphere.

  • Seasonal Job Fluctuations: Many positions rely on tourism, which can make employment less stable during the off-season.
  • Limited Major Employers: Conway has fewer large companies, meaning high-paying job opportunities are limited compared with nearby Myrtle Beach.
  • Public Transportation Gaps: The city has minimal public transit options, so owning a car is essential for commuting and errands.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re set on South Carolina’s coast, Charleston is a top pick. From West Ashley to James Island, you’ll find a wide range of affordable houses in Charleston with strong rental potential.

West Union (safety score of 93) and Pensacola (safety score of 51) are the cheapest and safest cities in South Carolina. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.

Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in South Carolina for Young Adults

As an young adult, you want more than cheap rent in inexpensive places to live in South Carolina. You want good jobs, a vibrant lifestyle, and a city to thrive in. These South Carolina cities deliver all three, and more.

RankCityWhy It’s Great for Young Adults
1.FlorenceRecognized as one of the “Top Work Places” in South Carolina, Florence offers stable job opportunities with major employers like GE Healthcare and Honda of South Carolina. The downtown is artsy with Florence Little Theatre, and multiple galleries. Combined with many homes for sale in Florence, it is a lively place for young adults to enjoy culture and active living.
2.DillonThe city offers cost-effective housing and a diverse job market anchored by employers like Walmart, Food Lion, and McLeod Medical Center. Dillon County 4-H clubs add hands-on programs in cooking, horse riding, and shooting sports. Dillon Park rounds it out with a dog park, picnic shelters, and playgrounds that make staying active easy.
3.BennettsvilleBennettsville’s community comes alive through events like “Downtown Market Day – Youth Entrepreneurs,” where local kids sell handmade crafts and learn real-world business skills. Major employers such as Mohawk Industries, Andritz, Imerys, and Kaufman Trailers keep the job market steady—an advantage for anyone exploring homes for sale in Bennettsville.

Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in South Carolina for Families

South Carolina is one of the favorites among families for its low crime rates, low cost of living, and good schools. Here are three cities in South Carolina that are perfect for families.

RankCityWhy It’s Great for Families
1. GaffneyGaffney is backed by strong public schools, including Gaffney High in the Cherokee County district. The Visitors Center & Art Gallery gives the city a solid dose of history and culture. With the Overmountain Victory Trail and family spots like The Big E Gaffney, it offers plenty of ways to stay active and entertained.
2.UnionUnion blends low-cost housing with a tight-knit community feel. Families appreciate the strong local schools and traditions like the Christmas Downtown Open House and Parade. With its parks, the Timken Sports Complex, and plenty of homes for sale in Union, it’s an easy place to picture settling down.
3.NewberryNewberry offers solid education through Newberry Academy and Newberry College. Downtown events like First Fridays and Wine Walks keep the community lively. With safe neighborhoods like Scott’s Creek and a steady mix of homes for sale in Newberry, families can find a place that truly fits their needs.

3 Best Affordable Places to Live in South Carolina for Retirees

RankCityWhy It’s Great for Retirees
1.AikenTax-friendly and mild in climate, the city is rooted in equestrian culture, with horse racing and polo at its core. Residents also enjoy recreation at Hopelands Gardens and community events like the Aiken Spring Carnival and Christmas Parade. Strong healthcare access through Aiken Regional Medical Center rounds out its appeal.
2.MarionAs a certified retirement community, it offers easy access to Lake Marion State Park and year-round events like the Bass Derby, farmers markets, and art shows. With stable taxes and a reliable mix of homes for sale in Marion, it’s an attractive option for those seeking affordable waterfront living.
3.OrangeburgAlong with affordable housing, Orangeburg offers cultural staples like the Orangeburg County Fair and the Summer Concert Series. The Fine Arts Center and Edisto Memorial Gardens add steady recreation. With homes for sale in Orangeburg, small-town charm, and accessible amenities, it’s a strong fit for retirees.

3 Hidden Costs to Consider in South Carolina

Even in most affordable cities in South Carolina, home prices are only part of the equation. Many newcomers are caught off guard by vehicle taxes, HOA fees, and storm-related insurance costs that quickly add to the yearly budget.

  • Vehicle Property Taxes: The state charges an annual tax on cars, trucks, boats, and campers. For a newer SUV like a 2021 F-150, bills often land between $400–$800, plus a one-time $35 registration fee for new residents.
  • Homeowners Association Fees: Many newer neighborhoods include mandatory HOA dues. Mid-range communities typically run $300–$700 per year, while luxury developments can reach $1,200. Older areas may have no HOA at all.
  • Wind & Hail Deductibles: Storm-related deductibles are separate from standard homeowners insurance. These typically range from 1–5% of your home’s value and often surprise buyers unfamiliar with South Carolina’s weather risks.
👉 Quick Tip: South Carolina’s Homestead Exemption allows up to $50,000 off the taxable value of your primary residence, if you meet the eligibility criteria, which can help reduce costs. However, it does not apply to second homes or investment properties.

Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in South Carolina to Live In

Housing costs vary dramatically across South Carolina. Lake City residents save $2,615 monthly compared to Miami and $564 compared to Tampa. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.

CityMedian Home PriceAvg. Monthly MortgageInsurance/TaxesEstimated Monthly Cost for a Single PersonMonthly Savings vs. Hilton Head Island
Bennettsville$147,450$880$1,250$3,130$3,311
Greenville$498,450$2,925$3,787 $4,177$2,264
Hilton Head Island$749,500$4,399$1,842$6,441

Affordable Living Beyond South Carolina

Not sure if the cheapest places in South Carolina to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major tax benefits, a strong job market, and personal income growth, just like South Carolina.

Tax Benefits

Tennessee offers no state income tax and a cost of living index around 90.3, lower than South Carolina’s as well. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in Tennessee:

  • Rockwood: Homes around $209,000 rent under $1,200, and combined sales tax rate stands at 9.5%.
  • Morristown: Homes around $258,443, rent from $1,650, and property tax reaches $3.16 per $100 assessed value.
  • Kingsport: Homes near $241,000, rent from $1,351, and tax relief exists for low-income elderly/disabled residents.

Growing Job Market

Oklahoma matches South Carolina’s growing job market, driven by energy, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing expansions. These are the top three cheapest places to live in Oklahoma:

  • Oklahoma City: Median home prices are around $231,000, rent under $1,056 and booking in energy and healthcare jobs.
  • Tulsa: Median home prices are around $210,000, rent under $1,010, and strong in tech and aerospace sectors.
  • Lawton: Median home prices are around $150,000, rent under $866, and a military-driven job stability.

Personal Income Growth

North Carolina matches South Carolina’s strong personal income growth at 6.1% annualized in Q2 2025 and was tied for top regional performance. Here are the cheapest places to live in North Carolina:

  • Rocky Mount: Homes around $220,000, rent under $1,202, and the unemployment rate is under 4.9%.
  • Goldsboro: Housing median is $215,000, rent under $1,334, and the utilities and groceries are low.
  • Kinston: Median home under $180,000, rent under $922, agriculture and education sectors support local economy.

So, Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in South Carolina?

You can easily find cheap houses for sale in South Carolina under 150K. Dillon, Bennettsville, and Union are among the more affordable cities in South Carolina. They offer stable job opportunities, and a low cost of living compared to the rest of the country.

To make your search easier, use Houzeo, South Carolina’s best home-buying website. Browse up-to-date listings, filter by budget, and make offers online in just a few clicks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the least expensive place to live in South Carolina?

The cheapest city to live in South Carolina is Bennetsville. It offers affordable housing, which is 75.9% lower than the national average.

» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in South Carolina: Find out the other cheapest places to live in South Carolina.

Where is the best place to live in South Carolina?

The best place to live in South Carolina is Charleston, followed by Columbia, Myrtle Beach, Summerville, and Greenville.

Where is the best place to retire in South Carolina on a budget?

Aiken, Marion, and Orangeburg are among the best places to retire in South Carolina on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.

Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in Florida?

Dillon (69) and Bennetsville (81) have the cheapest cost of living in South Carolina.