13 Things to Know Before Moving to South Carolina, 2022

South Carolina is a highly sought-after state with much to offer. Low crime rates, a warm and relaxed atmosphere, and the stunning beauty of the state are its major draws. Additionally, with everything from sandy beach coastlines to upstate mountains, outdoor enthusiasts find no shortage of activities here in South Carolina.

If you’re ready to pack up and move to the Palmetto State, here are 13 things to know before you go.

1. What's It Like Living in South Carolina

South Carolina is the 23rd-most populated state in the country, with 5,190,705 residents. Located in the country's Southeastern region, South Carolina is situated with the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast, Georgia to the southwest, separated by the Savannah River, and North Carolina to the north.

Three main geographic regions divide South Carolina, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, Piedmont, and the Atlantic coastal plain. Two-thirds of the state is covered by the Atlantic Coastal Plain, known for the Carolina Bays, which are low-relief topographic depressions located throughout this region.

2. Cost of Living in South Carolina

Despite its recent uptick in popularity, South Carolina is still a reasonably priced state. The overall cost of living in South Carolina is 88.5, lower than the US average of 100. Try using our rent calculator to estimate how much to spend on rent.

Using the popular city of Charleston, as an example, according to Payscale, the cost of living in South Carolina is 4% higher, yet the housing is 2% lower than the national average.

Here’s an idea of how much things cost when moving to South Carolina, as reported by Payscale:

• Energy bill: $208.23
• Loaf of bread: $3.40
• Doctor’s visit: $113.70
• $2.45 for a gallon of gas

Large cities like Charleston will be the most expensive areas in the state. However, you can still find rent specials or team up with roommates if needed.

Charleston

Charleston is a sparkling port city known for its food and attractions. You can also take advantage of historical landmarks, stunning backdrops, and diverse nightlife when living here.

Research shows that the average estimated monthly cost (without rent) for a single person in Raleigh is $1,022.11. For a family of four, these costs bump up to $3,551,93.

The cost of living in Charleston is still a bit higher than in other South Carolina cities. Median rents in Charleston stand at $1,700 for a one-bedroom and $2,218 for a two-bedroom. That's above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

Columbia

Columbia, South Carolina offers countless outdoor activities, weather permitting. Check out trails along the river banks, zoos, and gardens all over this city.

Research shows that the average monthly net salary, after-tax, in Columbia is $2,794.13. Also, the cost of one meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages around $10.00.

Median rents in Columbia stand at $1,206 for a one-bedroom and $1,432 for a two-bedroom. That's just slightly above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is known for its 12 breathtaking miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront properties, including eight public beach access spots.

Research shows that Greensboro’s average monthly net salary (after tax) is $3,000.00. Additionally, the cost of an individual meal at the average inexpensive restaurant is $12.00.

Median rents in Greensboro stand at $1,400 for a one-bedroom and $2,200 for a two-bedroom. That's above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

3. Taxes in South Carolina

South Carolina has a progressive income tax. Thankfully, the state makes up for it in gas and property taxes, with some of the lowest rates in the country.

Unfortunately, the sales tax rates in South Carolina are amongst the top 20 in the U.S. There is a statewide sales tax rate of 6%, with each city adding additional amounts. For example, there is a 9% sales tax rate in Charleston, including state, Charleston tax, and Special tax rates for the city.

4. Who’s Moving to South Carolina?

According to Apartment List’s most recent migration report, the highest share of people moving to Charleston are from New York, Columbia, and Greenville. However, renters living in Charlotte move elsewhere, including Columbia, Charlotte, and Atlanta.

5. South Carolina Job Market and Economy

Compared to other similarly sized metropolitan areas across the county, Charleston has a healthier job market. The average annual salary in Charleston is $47,800, slightly below the national average of $53,490. Thankfully, the unemployment rate is 6%, below the national average of 8.1%.

The tourism industry in Charleston is one of the most active in the state, boosting employment in the service and hospitality industries. Other significant industries in the state include art professionals, marketing, advertising, sales, and tech.

The Boeing Company, Bon Secours St. Francis and Roper hospitals, the Medical University of South Carolina, and Joint Base Charleston are among the state's largest employers.

6. Public Transportation in South Carolina

South Carolina has many public transportation options, including statewide buses, coastal buses, midlands buses, Pee Dee buses, and upstate and Piedmont buses. While public transportation is one option, having reliable private transportation is easier.

7. Weather in South Carolina

There is a humid subtropical climate throughout the state, bringing hot and humid summers. The winters are predominantly mild, especially in the southern and eastern regions. In the northwestern part of South Carolina, they experience colder winters.

In Charleston, the winters are cold and windy, while summers are hot and oppressive. The hottest month in Charleston is July, with temperatures hitting 90°F plus the extreme humidity. On the other hand, the coldest month in Charleston is January, with the lowest overnight temperatures hitting 43°F.

8. South Carolina Attractions

South Carolina is a playground for attractions, from national parks, museums, historical landmarks, etc.

National Parks

South Carolina is only home to seven sites recognized by the national park service. Among them, the top picks include:

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site

Signer of the U.S. Constitution and American Founding Father Charles Pinckney’s Snee Farm is now a 28-acre remnant of his plantation. Today there is a coastal cottage, museum, and visitor center.

Congaree National Park

The 26,000-acre park of Congaree National Park is filled with ancient waterways and cypress trees. Today, the national park includes a lake, 2.4 miles of boardwalk, and over 25 miles of hiking.

Notable Museums

In addition to its national park, South Carolina is also home to countless museums. Of them, some of the most popular include:

Fort Sumter National Monument

During the Civil War, Fort Sumter was the location of the first clash between the Confederate and Union armies. Today, it’s a national monument filled with a history of a time of a divided nation.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

The legendary aircraft carrier USS Yorktown entered Charleston Harbor in 1975 and became the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum known today.

Things to Do

Here are some things you must do while living in South Carolina.

Visit Middleton Place

Middleton Place National Historic Landmark is the oldest garden in the country. The historic site covers 110 acres.

Check out Broadway at the Beach

In Myrtle Beach, you’ll find South Carolina’s favorite travel destination. With everything from fabulous nightlife to specialty shops, it’s got it all.

9. Food Scene and Nightlife in South Carolina

South Carolina's melting pot of different cultures offers something for everyone, making its mark on the country as a foodie state. The state has many iconic foods, including Frogmore Stew, Gullah Red Rice, Chicken Bog, and She-Crab Soup, to name a few.

You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars, many of which provide live entertainment in the evenings. Some of the favorites known to the state include The Bowery, Art Bar, and Faculty Lounge.

There’s no shortage of shopping in South Carolina, with destinations including Coastal Grand Mall, Rainbow Harbor, and the Shops at The Charleston Place.

10. Major Annual South Carolina Events

South Carolina is home to countless festivals and events throughout the year, including some of the most popular:

Beaufort Water Festival - Over 100,000 people head to Beaufort in July, featuring water-based programs, kid’s day, air shows, and evening concerts.

Southern 500 - Sports fanatics will flock to Darlington each September for the Southern 500.

Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival - Each July, the Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival showcases the beauty and skill of sweetgrass basket-making.

Historic Pendleton Spring Jubilee - Each April, the Spring Jubilee showcases unique arts and crafts in the 18th-century downtown Pendleton community.

Fall for Greenville - Dive into the culinary scene of South Carolina by experiencing Fall for Greenville, which takes place every October.

Artisphere - Art enthusiasts flock to Greenville each May to enjoy the three-day run of a program known as Artist Demonstration Row.

South Carolina State Fair - Each October, the 12-day South Carolina State Fair comes to Columbia. Many say it’s one of the top festivals in the country.

Gullah Festival - The Gullah people, African-Americans dwelling on the country's southeastern coast, have a festival each May in Beaufort celebrating the history, customs, language, and more.

South Carolina Festival of Flowers - The only flower festival in the country takes place in June in Greenwood. This festival has been ongoing for the last 40+ years.

11. Sports in South Carolina

There are no major league professional sports teams in South Carolina. Still, many of those based out of North Carolina represent both states, including the Carolina Bobcats, Carolina Hurricanes, and Carolina Panthers.

12. Top Universities in South Carolina

In South Carolina, they do not take higher education lightly. There are 60 colleges and universities in the state. Some top-ranking universities include Clemson University, University of South Carolina, Furman University, Wofford College, and Presbyterian College.

13. What City in South Carolina Should You Make Your Home?

South Carolina's best city to move to depends on your lifestyle preferences, career aspirations, and budget.

Moving to Charleston is ideal if you want unlimited access to world-class amenities and culture. The booming downtown areas, endless entertainment options, and low cost of living have made Charleston a hotspot for migration in the last decade. However, keep in mind that it might be more expensive than other cities in South Carolina because of its popularity.

If you’re looking for a college town with lots of history, check out the state capital, Columbia. However, you can find more history and beautifully landscaped grounds in North Charleston, the third-largest city in the state.

Final Thoughts

Ready to move somewhere with a warm and relaxed atmosphere matched with a stunning beauty but unsure about the cost of living in South Carolina? Hopefully, you’ve got a better idea and can start searching for some of the best places to live in South Carolina.

Register for Apartment List to find your perfect neighborhood and apartment in South Carolina.

FAQs: What to Know Before Moving to South Carolina

What’s the weather in South Carolina?

There is a humid subtropical climate throughout the state, bringing hot and humid summers. The winters are predominantly mild, especially in the southern and eastern regions. In the northwestern area of South Carolina, they experience colder winters.

What’s the timezone in South Carolina?

South Carolina is in Eastern Standard Time (EST) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), depending on the time of year. This time zone is also Greenwich Mean Time - 4 (GMT-4), one hour behind New York City.

What to do in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s biggest draw is its pristine outdoors, beckoning hikers, bikers, and walkers. Checking out the nationally recognized sites, parks, and monuments is a great way to spend your time in this historic southern state.

What region is South Carolina In?

Located in the country's Southeastern region, South Carolina is situated with the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast, Georgia to the southwest, separated by the Savannah River, and North Carolina to the north.

What are the benefits of moving to South Carolina?

South Carolina's welcoming charm, sunny weather, and magnificent landscape make it an attractive option for college students, millennials, and retirees looking for a desirable place to live, work, and play. In short, moving to South Carolina offers tons of benefits!

What are the pros and cons of living in South Carolina?

The pros of living in South Carolina include southern hospitality, great culture and history, and a growing economy. The cons of living in South Carolina include pesky outdoor critters, high income, sales tax, and the risk of severe weather. Every city has its pros and cons.

What’s the best neighborhood to move to in South Carolina?

The eight best neighborhoods in South Carolina are in Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Rock Hill, Greenville, Summerville, and Hilton Head Island.

What’s it like living in South Carolina?

Low crime rates, a warm and relaxed atmosphere, and the stunning beauty of the state are its major draws. Additionally, with everything from sandy beach coastlines to upstate mountains, outdoor enthusiasts find no shortage of activities here in South Carolina.

What are the taxes in South Carolina?

South Carolina has a progressive income tax. Thankfully, the state makes up for it in gas and property taxes, with some of the lowest rates in the country.

What jobs are popular in South Carolina?

The tourism industry in Charleston is currently one of the most active in the state, boosting employment in the service and hospitality industries. Other prominent industries in the state include art professionals, marketing, advertising, sales, and tech.

What universities are in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, they do not take higher education lightly. There are 60 colleges and universities in the state. Some top-ranking include Clemson University, University of South Carolina, Furman University, Wofford College, and Presbyterian College.

What are things to do in South Carolina?

There are plenty of things to do in South Carolina, whether you like spending your time exploring year-round festivals or taking a hike and enjoying the outdoors. Or, if you consider yourself a bit of a foodie, the options are nearly endless. Unfortunately, finding something to do in South Carolina can be challenging because you have so many options.