Cost of Living in Beaufort, SC

With a cost of living index of 91, Beaufort, SC is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 9% cheaper than the national average and 9% above the South Carolina state average of 82. Beaufort is a smaller community of 13,660 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Beaufort's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,061 (20% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $310,400 (2% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.2x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Beaufort is $59,454, which is 21% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Beaufort. The area sees an average annual temperature of 67.2°F, with summers averaging 82°F and winters around 52°F. Annual rainfall totals 45 inches spread over roughly 118 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal, SC (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.