Living in South Carolina
Last updated on Feb 23, 2023
Summary: People describe life in South Carolina as laid-back and friendly. People love the mild climate, the beautiful beaches, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the friendly people. The average cost of living in South Carolina is slightly below the national average. The approximate population of South Carolina is 5.1 million, and the largest cities are Columbia, Charleston, North Charleston, Greenville, and Rock Hill. The cons of living in South Carolina include the high cost of living in some areas, the lack of public transportation, and the occasional hurricanes.
Is the cost of living in South Carolina high?
We asked people about the cost of living in South Carolina, they wrote:
"The cost of living in South Carolina is generally considered to be lower than the national average. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in South Carolina can range from around $800 to $1,200 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in South Carolina can cost around $15 to $20 per person," commented one expat who moved to South Carolina.
What type of recreational facilities are in South Carolina?
When we asked people living in South Carolina about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"In South Carolina, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, golf courses, and trails. The state is home to a number of beautiful beaches, such as Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island, where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. There are also numerous parks throughout the state, offering a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and camping. South Carolina also has a number of golf courses, ranging from public courses to private country clubs. Finally, the state has a number of trails, both for hiking and biking, that offer stunning views of the state's natural beauty," said one expat living in South Carolina.
What is the weather like in South Carolina?
"The weather in South Carolina is typically warm and humid in the summer months, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s. In the winter, temperatures can drop to the 30s and 40s, with occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s," commented one expat living in South Carolina.
Are there good restaurants in South Carolina?
"One of South Carolina's favorite restaurants is Husk, located in Charleston. Husk is a modern Southern restaurant that serves up classic dishes with a twist. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of dishes from fried chicken to shrimp and grits. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. Another popular restaurant in South Carolina is The Ordinary, located in Charleston. The Ordinary is a seafood-focused restaurant that serves up fresh seafood dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of dishes from oysters to crab cakes and a selection of craft beers and wines. Finally, The Macintosh in Charleston is a favorite among locals. The Macintosh is a modern American restaurant that serves up seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes from steak to seafood and a selection of craft beers and wines," commented one expat living in South Carolina.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in South Carolina?
"People living in South Carolina typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many people in South Carolina shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers," commented one expat living in South Carolina.
What are the visa & residency requirements in South Carolina?
"In order to obtain a visa to enter South Carolina, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in South Carolina, applicants must first submit an application to the USCIS. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Additionally, applicants must provide evidence of their intent to live in South Carolina, such as a job offer or proof of enrollment in a school. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card that will allow them to live and work in the state," mentioned an expat living in South Carolina.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in South Carolina?
"Healthcare and health insurance in South Carolina can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in South Carolina is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, South Carolina has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. As a result, many people in South Carolina struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and health insurance," mentioned one expat inSouth Carolina.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.