Beaufort, SC vs Charleston, SC: Cost of Living Comparison
Beaufort has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Beaufort | Charleston | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 91 | 122 | Beaufort |
| Housing | 89 ($743) | 135 ($1,142) | Beaufort |
| Transportation | 99 ($3.50) | 100 ($3.50) | Beaufort |
| Food & groceries | 80 ($328) | 121 ($496) | Beaufort |
| Utilities | 95 ($160) | 118 ($243) | Beaufort |
| Healthcare | 95 ($116) | 118 ($176) | Beaufort |
| Median annual wage | 96 ($46,490) | 96 ($46,490) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beaufort, SC or Charleston, SC cheaper to live in?
Beaufort, SC is cheaper overall by about 31 index points (Beaufort, SC: 91, Charleston, SC: 122; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Beaufort, SC vs Charleston, SC?
A single adult needs roughly $31,850/year in Beaufort, SC and $42,700/year in Charleston, SC to cover basic living costs.