The 5 Most Affordable Places to Live in South Carolina

From Charleston’s vibrant and historic architecture to its picturesque coastline and charming beach towns, South Carolina offers a unique and appealing lifestyle. The state boasts lush landscapes, delicious Southern cuisine, and a perfect blend of urban amenities and scenic beauty. If you're thinking about moving to South Carolina or relocating within the state, you likely have a budget in mind. As of July, the median home sale price in South Carolina is $387,700.

If that number is out of your budget, don’t worry. We’ve got options to help you find a home. Here are 5 of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina, all with a median home sale price under $387,700. Let’s find out which cities made the list.

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#1: Florence

Median home price: $231,990
Average sale price per square foot: $130
Median household income: $56,031
Nearest major metro: Myrtle Beach (70 miles)

Florence takes the top spot on our list of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina. With a median home sale price of $231,990, it's nearly $150,000 less than the state average. Located in the northeastern part of South Carolina, Florence is home to about 40,600 residents. The city offers plenty to explore, including a charming downtown area with landmarks like the Florence County Museum and the Florence Little Theatre. Additionally, you can enjoy the scenic views at Jeffries Creek Park, a 55-acre park featuring numerous trails and picnic areas.

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#2: Sumter

Median home price: $250,590
Average sale price per square foot: $124
Nearest major metro: Columbia (45 miles)
Median household income: $1,064

Sumter, with approximately 42,700 residents, ranks second on our list. Though slightly more expensive than Florence, it still offers substantial savings on home prices. In Sumter, you can enjoy outdoor attractions like Swan Lake Iris Gardens, Patriot Park, and Sumter Speedway. For indoor activities, the Sumter Museum is a must-visit, featuring historic exhibits in a beautiful Edwardian house dating back to 1916.

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#3: Columbia

Median home price: $260,000
Average sale price per square foot: $157
Median household income: $47,416

Columbia ranks third on our list of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina, with a median home sale price of $260,000. Home to around 136,600 residents, Columbia offers a variety of attractions. You can visit the historic South Carolina State House, explore Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, enjoy boating, fishing, or relaxing at Lake Murray, and admire the art at the Columbia Museum of Art.

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#4: Greer

Median home price: $300,000
Average sale price per square foot: $165
Median household income: $73,534
Nearest major metro: Greenville (12 miles)

The charming city of Greer is a fantastic affordable place to call home. Located just outside of Greenville, Greer has a population of about 44,300 residents. There’s plenty to do in Greer, including visiting the BMW Zentrum, enjoying outdoor activities at Lake Cunningham Recreation Area, or exploring Pelham Mill Park. Greer’s downtown is also a delightful area to explore, offering museums, parks, and a variety of local restaurants.

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#5: Rock Hill

Median home price: $310,000
Average sale price per square foot: $206
Median household income: $51,874
Nearest major metro: Charlotte, NC (25 miles)

Rock Hill is the fifth most affordable city to live in South Carolina. Home to 74,400 residents, Rock Hill offers a variety of attractions. You can enjoy green spaces like Glencairn Garden, Winthrop Lake, and Cherry Park. Additionally, you can explore the Rock Hill Downtown Historic District and discover the exhibits at the Museum of York County.