Cost of Living in Cayce, SC

With a cost of living index of 87, Cayce, SC is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 13% cheaper than the national average and 5% above the South Carolina state average of 82. Cayce is a smaller community of 13,718 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Cayce's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,358 (3% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $158,900 (48% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Cayce is $58,095, which is 23% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 28% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. 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 Cayce. The area sees an average annual temperature of 65.5°F, with summers averaging 82°F and winters around 49°F. Annual rainfall totals 43.7 inches spread over roughly 111 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Columbia, 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.