Cost of Living in Sullivan's Island, SC

With a cost of living index of 272, Sullivan's Island, SC is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 172% more expensive than the national average and 190% above the South Carolina state average of 82. Sullivan's Island is a small community of 2,127 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Sullivan's Island's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $2,402 (82% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $2,000,001 (556% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 11.1x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in Sullivan's Island is $179,614, which is 139% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they do not fully offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Sullivan's Island. The area sees an average annual temperature of 67.2°F, with summers averaging 81°F and winters around 53°F. Annual rainfall totals 44.3 inches spread over roughly 102 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.