Cost of Living in Walterboro, SC

With a cost of living index of 73, Walterboro, SC is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and 9% below the South Carolina state average of 82. Walterboro is a smaller community of 5,490 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Walterboro's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $865 (34% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $170,500 (44% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.5x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Walterboro is $48,366, which is 36% 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 Walterboro. 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.

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.