Beaufort, SC vs Florence, SC

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Florence is 22.6% cheaper than Beaufort. With a cost index of 74 vs 91, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Florence 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 $922/month in Florence — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Florence is more affordable at $189,800 median vs $310,400.

Median household income in Beaufort is $59,454 compared to $56,433 in Florence (+5.4%). 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 19.6% in Florence.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (67.2°F vs 64.7°F). Florence receives more rainfall at 45.3" per year compared to 45" in Beaufort.