Cheapest Cities to Rent in South Carolina (2026)

The cheapest rent in South Carolina is in Columbia, SC, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,276/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,164/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $233/mo below the South Carolina average 2BR of $1,509. The table below ranks all 3 of the cheapest cities to rent in South Carolina.

$1,276

Cheapest 2BR

$1,509

State Average 2BR

$233

Monthly Savings

$2,796

Yearly Savings

Top 3 Cheapest Cities in South Carolina

Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)

Rank	City	Studio	1 Bed	2 Bed	3 Bed	Income Needed
#1	Columbia, SC	$1,032	$1,164	$1,276	$1,623	$51,040/yr
#2	Myrtle Beach, SC	$1,145	$1,229	$1,465	$1,805	$58,600/yr
#3	Charleston, SC	$1,557	$1,630	$1,787	$2,222	$71,480/yr

Why These South Carolina Cities Are Affordable

South Carolina's affordability varies by location. Charleston has become expensive for the region, while Columbia, Greenville, and smaller cities offer good value.

Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 85
Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums

Income Requirements

Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in South Carolina's cheapest cities:

#1: Columbia

2BR: $1,276/mo requires $51,040/year

#2: Myrtle Beach

2BR: $1,465/mo requires $58,600/year

#3: Charleston

2BR: $1,787/mo requires $71,480/year

How South Carolina's Cheapest Cities Compare

vs State Average

-$233/mo

cheaper than South Carolina average

vs National Average

-$297/mo

below US median ($1,573)

Cost of Living Index

Below national average (100)

What to Consider Before Moving

Best For

✓Beach enthusiasts
✓Manufacturing workers
✓Those seeking Southern charm
✓Retirees

Considerations

•Hurricane risk on coast
•Hot humid summers
•Limited public transit

Cheapest Rent in South Carolina: FAQ

Where is the cheapest rent in South Carolina?

The cheapest rent in South Carolina is in Columbia, SC, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,276/month and a 1-bedroom $1,164/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Myrtle Beach ($1,465), Charleston ($1,787).

How much can I save renting in South Carolina's cheapest cities?

By choosing South Carolina's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,509, you could save $233/month or $2,796/year on rent.

Is rent in South Carolina's cheapest city below the US average?

Yes. A 2-bedroom in Columbia costs $1,276/month, which is $297/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).

What income do I need to rent in South Carolina's cheapest cities?

To afford the cheapest 2BR in South Carolina at $1,276/month, you need approximately $51,040/year based on the 30% of income guideline.