James Island, SC vs Williamston, SC

The cost of living difference between James Island, SC and Williamston, SC is dramatic. Williamston is 62.8% cheaper than James Island, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. James Island has a cost index of 116 while Williamston sits at 72, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in James Island is $1,443/month compared to $860/month in Williamston — a 68% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Williamston is more affordable at $156,700 median vs $454,200.

Median household income in James Island is $100,176 compared to $62,500 in Williamston (+60.3%). The higher salaries in James Island partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of James Island spend roughly 17.3% of their income on rent, more than the 16.5% in Williamston.

Climate-wise, James Island is notably warmer with an average of 67.2°F compared to 61.9°F in Williamston. Williamston receives more rainfall at 46.3" per year compared to 44.3" in James Island.