Cost of Living in North Charleston, SC

With a cost of living index of 99, North Charleston, SC is right around the national average in cost. Living here is 1% cheaper than the national average and 17% above the South Carolina state average of 82. As a major city with a population of 117,460, North Charleston offers a wide range of housing options, employment opportunities, and urban amenities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in North Charleston's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,364 (3% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $267,700 (12% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.3x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in North Charleston is $62,789, which is 16% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 26% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to North Charleston. The area sees an average annual temperature of 66.5°F, with summers averaging 81°F and winters around 51°F. Annual rainfall totals 52.5 inches spread over roughly 114 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Charleston-North Charleston, 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.