Potential homebuyers searching for Southern hospitality often face sky-high prices. However, South Carolina offers the perfect blend of affordability, culture, and natural beauty.
With that in mind, we’ve put together this guide to the most affordable places to live in South Carolina. Whether you’re aiming to downsize, relocate, or save money in a hot seller’s market, the locations we cover are the place. We’ll cover the cheapest places to live, those with the best job opportunities, and more.
With housing costs constantly on the rise across the US, South Carolina has stayed one of the few states where affordable living is still possible. Families, retirees, and young professionals are constantly looking for affordable housing in safe neighborhoods. Most importantly, housing that won’t strain their budget. This is especially true in regions where the median household income comes in below the national average.
Local buyers and sellers are feeling this squeeze. Wages simply haven’t grown along with the cost of living, particularly in coastal regions. For countless families, the decision of staying in their hometown or relocating comes down to their budget.
Knowing where your money has the most power is one of the most important factors to remember. Identifying your needs for relocating, downsizing, or selling while navigating foreclosure can help you make the right choice by learning more about your options.
It’s not just the price tag on the house. The overall cost of living includes everything from property taxes and insurance premiums to utilities, services, and travel time.
In South Carolina, the housing market has a major influence. In some areas, the median home price sits well below the national average, making a big difference in long-term expenses.
Cities with active job markets or strong educational institutions, such as Columbia and Greenville, tend to offer a better balance of income and cost. Smaller towns may have cheaper median rent, but they often come with fewer amenities or employment options.
Other important considerations include closeness to the North Carolina border, access to public transit, and the availability of affordable housing. For families, good schools and safety are key. For young adults, entertainment, restaurants, and walkable neighborhoods often matter more.
As the state capital, Columbia offers a balance of affordability, opportunity, and culture. Columbia is also home to the University of South Carolina, which adds vibrancy through sports, events, and a steady rental market. Affordable rent paired with diverse housing, including small town bungalows and new construction, means there are options for all budgets.
Buyers and sellers seeking properties just outside the capital typically look to Columbia and nearby suburbs. These areas have lower median home values, blended with general safety and good schools. Here are six of the leading locations.
Cayce is a suburb along the Congaree River and is known for its more relaxed pace and community. The median home value is well below the national average. This makes Cayce very attractive to first-time homebuyers as well as anyone else on a fixed income. Current residents looking for a change of scenery can sell fast with cash buyers.
Right across the river from downtown, West Columbia residents have a great balance of affordability and convenience. The median rent is within reach for most young professionals, and the local job market is supported significantly by Columbia’s core growth. New restaurants and shops provide all the benefits of city living without the high cost.
Irmo is considered to be one of the best, affordable places to live near Columbia, thanks to the cost of housing and the family-friendly vibe. Irmo’s known for its parks, and the occasional blockbuster event, like the annual Okra Strut Festival. For people looking to relocate on a tight budget, this could be in the running for the cheapest city, which means housing demand stays pretty steady.
Seven Oaks appeals to those who want the peace of a smaller community with the convenience of being minutes from downtown Columbia. Homes here are affordable compared to statewide averages, and cash buyers can offer competitive prices with fast closing. The area’s green spaces make it ideal for families or retirees seeking a quieter pace. With schools, parks, and shopping nearby, residents are never bored.
St. Andrews has long been one of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina, with no shortage of cheap homes and rentals. A prime area for families and South Carolina State University students, the standard of living compared to the cost is incredible. Homes in St. Andrews are so cheap that it’s hard to keep a seller’s market here. Sellers who work with cash buyers can often cut their timeline down to days, while still putting plenty of money in their pockets.
Dentsville is a suburb northeast of Columbia. It has some of the lowest median home values in all of Richland County, and home sellers often look to direct sales for the best offer on the tightest schedule. This deep value draws in families from around the state. For many families, accessibility is a major factor in deciding where to live, even in areas they’re simply considering. Residents love how close they are to great schools, shopping, and public transportation in Dentsville.
South Carolina offers a substantial variety of cities where both the cost of living and the median home price are below the national average. The places we’re looking at here have a mix of opportunity, culture, and affordability.
Rock Hill combines affordable living with a great job market. Located on the North Carolina border, Rock Hill residents often commute to Charlotte, expanding job opportunities even further.
Greenville is another location, known for its vibrant downtown center. Residents enjoy a thriving art scene and abundant green spaces. Here, the median income and the relatively low rent appeal to families and young adults.
For small town living with a solid military presence, Sumter and Shaw Air Force Base are next-door neighbors. Home to the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, moderate home values, and a slower pace than city life.
Florence is a continually growing regional hub, and has a school system that leads in the area. While slightly higher than other locations, home prices are still somewhat affordable.
Famous for its boardwalk, entertainment, and family attractions, Myrtle Beach also offers some of the most affordable housing costs on the coast. While tourism drives the local economy, families and retirees are drawn to its southern hospitality and active lifestyle.
Just south of Myrtle Beach, Garden City offers quieter living with the same mild climate and access to beaches. Median home prices remain reasonable, making it a smart choice for those who want the coastal lifestyle without high costs.
This fishing town provides a slower pace with plenty of outdoor activities. Homes here are among the cheapest places to live on the coast, yet residents still enjoy easy access to Myrtle Beach.
Known as the “Family Beach,” Surfside offers a strong sense of community, safe neighborhoods, and budget-friendly housing compared to larger resort towns. It’s ideal for families seeking both affordability and a laid-back beach lifestyle.
If you’re about to start house hunting, you’ll need to balance budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals. First, start by thinking about the median home value in your target city, then compare it to your income and expenses. Don’t forget about property taxes, utilities, and insurance, since they all impact your cost of living.
Think about your lifestyle as well. Families with kids prioritize good schools and safe neighborhoods. Young professionals tend to prefer local restaurants, art galleries, and nightlife. Seniors focus on access to healthcare, relaxed daily life, and green spaces.
Depending on your life stage or circumstances, like foreclosure, divorce, or even dealing with the aftermath of storm damage, you might be in the market to sell your house. If this is the case, working with a local cash buyer can get you a fair offer, fast.
South Carolina continues to be one of the most affordable places to live in the country. Choose from options ranging from Columbia’s bustling streets to the cheap homes and more affordable housing in coastal communities.
Our state delivers an unbeatable mix of value and southern charm. That value isn’t only about saving money, either. It’s about cultivating a life that is stable and sustainable, close to jobs, education, and fun activities.
The Palmetto State continues to show off some of the best affordable places to live. Whether you’re drawn to small towns, vibrant cities, or budget-friendly beach communities, South Carolina in 2025 is hard to beat. If you’re planning to move or thinking about selling, High Noon Home Buyers can help. Quick cash, a stress-free process, and lightning-fast closings.
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