Parker, SC vs Surfside Beach, SC

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Parker is 28.8% cheaper than Surfside Beach. With a cost index of 75 vs 105, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Parker to Surfside Beach should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Parker is $1,066/month compared to $1,274/month in Surfside Beach — a 16% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Parker is more affordable at $121,800 median vs $412,100.

Median household income in Parker is $38,607 compared to $74,202 in Surfside Beach (-48%). While Surfside Beach is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Parker spend roughly 33.1% of their income on rent, more than the 20.6% in Surfside Beach. The Surfside Beach ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (63.3°F vs 64°F). Surfside Beach receives more rainfall at 48.5" per year compared to 47" in Parker.