2026 Cost of Living in Florence, SC

Housing Costs in Florence, SC

Housing remains the single largest expense for most households. Fortunately, Florence still sits below the national average in housing costs.

As of 2026, the average apartment rent in Florence is about $1,149 per month, according to rental market data compiled by Apartments.com.

These prices are still lower than the national average rent of roughly $1,627, but rents have gradually increased over time. Apartments.com reports Florence rents have risen about 1.3 percent over the past year.

For people relocating from larger metro areas, Florence may feel far more manageable financially. However, for long-time residents, even modest increases can still stretch a monthly budget.

Home Prices in Florence, South Carolina

Homeownership in Florence is still more attainable than in many parts of the country.

According to Zillow housing market data, the average home value in Florence is about $216,399 in 2026, showing moderate growth over the past several years.

The U.S. Census Bureau places the median value of owner-occupied homes in Florence at approximately $211,400.

For many families looking for stability, Florence continues to offer a housing market that is far more approachable than larger urban areas.

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Florence, SC?

Income plays a major role in determining whether a city feels affordable.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, the median household income in Florence is $56,143.

The city's poverty rate is about 18.9 percent, which shows that affordability varies significantly depending on employment, debt levels, and family size.

For many households, housing may technically be below national averages. However, affordability ultimately depends on how housing costs interact with income, childcare, transportation, healthcare, and other financial responsibilities.

Grocery, Utility, and Everyday Costs

Beyond housing, everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities shape the overall cost of living.

BestPlaces reports Florence has an overall cost of living index of 79.6, where the national average is set at 100. This means Florence is still below the national average in many expense categories.

Even when a city ranks as affordable, rising food and energy costs can still impact household budgets.

Transportation and Commute Times

One advantage of living in Florence is the relatively short commute time.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average commute time in Florence is about 18.7 minutes.

Shorter commute times mean lower fuel usage, less wear and tear on vehicles, and less time lost sitting in traffic.

Is Florence SC Still Affordable in 2026?

When people search online for "Is Florence South Carolina affordable?" the answer depends on perspective.

Compared with many cities across the United States, Florence still offers...

• Lower housing costs
• Shorter commutes
• A cost of living below the national average

At the same time, the financial reality for many households is still evolving as prices gradually increase.

Florence remains a place where many people are able to build a life, grow a career, or start over after relocating from larger cities. However, like many communities across the country, residents are learning how to navigate a changing economic landscape.