Aiken, SC vs Fountain Inn, SC

Aiken, SC and Fountain Inn, SC have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.3% difference in their overall index. Aiken scores 90 while Fountain Inn scores 86 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Aiken is $1,199/month compared to $1,072/month in Fountain Inn — a 12% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fountain Inn is more affordable at $255,400 median vs $261,800.

Median household income in Aiken is $69,837 compared to $72,021 in Fountain Inn (-3%). Fountain Inn offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Aiken spend roughly 20.6% of their income on rent, more than the 17.9% in Fountain Inn.

Climate-wise, Aiken is notably warmer with an average of 65.4°F compared to 61.3°F in Fountain Inn. Fountain Inn receives more rainfall at 49.7" per year compared to 44.1" in Aiken.