Cost of Living in Summerville, SC

With a cost of living index of 103, Summerville, SC is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 3% more expensive than the national average and 21% above the South Carolina state average of 82. With a population of 51,262, Summerville is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Summerville's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,414 (7% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $295,700 (3% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.8x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Summerville is $78,621, which is 5% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 22% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Summerville. 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.