Hilton Head Island, SC vs Lake Wylie, SC

Lake Wylie is moderately more affordable than Hilton Head Island, with a 12.7% lower cost of living index. Hilton Head Island scores 133 compared to 118 for Lake Wylie, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Hilton Head Island can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Hilton Head Island is $1,518/month compared to $1,517/month in Lake Wylie — a 0% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lake Wylie is more affordable at $464,200 median vs $652,100.

Median household income in Hilton Head Island is $96,715 compared to $112,113 in Lake Wylie (-13.7%). Lake Wylie offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Hilton Head Island spend roughly 18.8% of their income on rent, more than the 16.2% in Lake Wylie.

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