Beaufort, SC vs Chester, SC

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Chester is 29.9% cheaper than Beaufort. With a cost index of 70 vs 91, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Chester to Beaufort should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Beaufort is $1,061/month compared to $905/month in Chester — a 17% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chester is more affordable at $106,400 median vs $310,400.

Median household income in Beaufort is $59,454 compared to $41,231 in Chester (+44.2%). While Beaufort is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Beaufort spend roughly 21.4% of their income on rent, less than the 26.3% in Chester.

Climate-wise, Beaufort is notably warmer with an average of 67.2°F compared to 61°F in Chester. Beaufort receives more rainfall at 45" per year compared to 42.4" in Chester.