Beaufort, SC vs Central, SC

Central is moderately more affordable than Beaufort, with a 12.9% lower cost of living index. Beaufort scores 91 compared to 81 for Central, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Beaufort can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Beaufort is $1,061/month compared to $973/month in Central — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Central is more affordable at $228,500 median vs $310,400.

Median household income in Beaufort is $59,454 compared to $58,262 in Central (+2%). Beaufort does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Beaufort spend roughly 21.4% of their income on rent, more than the 20% in Central.

Climate-wise, Beaufort is notably warmer with an average of 67.2°F compared to 61.4°F in Central. Central receives more rainfall at 49" per year compared to 45" in Beaufort.