Cost of Living in Charleston-North Charleston, SC

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Charleston-North Charleston? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,094 per year — combining federal taxes with South Carolina's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,787/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Charleston-North Charleston metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $38,462, or roughly $3,205 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Charleston-North Charleston metro has a cost of living index of 123.4 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 23% above average, Charleston-North Charleston is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Charleston-North Charleston represents approximately 31% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level.