Lakewood, SC vs Union, SC

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Union is 24.7% cheaper than Lakewood. With a cost index of 64 vs 80, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Union to Lakewood should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Lakewood is $928/month compared to $789/month in Union — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Union is more affordable at $103,400 median vs $260,900.

Median household income in Lakewood is $49,255 compared to $34,112 in Union (+44.4%). While Lakewood is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Lakewood spend roughly 22.6% of their income on rent, less than the 27.8% in Union.

Climate-wise, Lakewood is notably warmer with an average of 65.5°F compared to 61.3°F in Union. Union receives more rainfall at 49.7" per year compared to 43.7" in Lakewood.