South Carolina is a gem for students seeking affordable living combined with southern charm, quality education, and a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in one of the state’s renowned universities or attending a community college, choosing the right city to live in can significantly impact your budget and lifestyle. This guide highlights the 10 cheapest cities in South Carolina for students, detailing their unique features, costs, and benefits.
Table of contents
1. Columbia
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Columbia, the state capital, is not only a vibrant cultural hub but also one of the most affordable cities for students. With a thriving student population, thanks to institutions like the University of South Carolina and Allen University, Columbia offers a variety of housing options, from student dormitories to budget-friendly apartments. It is one of the cheapest cities to live in South Carolina. The city boasts affordable public transportation and numerous free events, making it easy to balance academics and recreation without breaking the bank.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 900/month |
| Utilities | USD 120/month |
| Transportation | USD 50/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 250/month |
2. Spartanburg
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Known for its small-town charm and affordable living, Spartanburg is home to institutions like Wofford College and the University of South Carolina Upstate. The city offers a relaxed environment, perfect for focused studying. Students can enjoy outdoor spaces, local cafes, and a growing arts scene. Housing costs in Spartanburg are significantly lower than in larger cities, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious students.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 750/month |
| Utilities | USD 110/month |
| Transportation | USD 40/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 230/month |
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3. Florence
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Florence is a hidden gem in South Carolina, offering both affordability and a rich cultural heritage. Home to Francis Marion University, the city caters to student needs with plenty of budget-friendly housing options, public libraries, and parks. Its central location also provides easy access to other parts of the state, ideal for weekend explorations. It is among the cheapest cities to live in South Carolina
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 800/month |
| Utilities | USD 115/month |
| Transportation | USD 45/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 240/month |
4. Anderson
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Anderson combines affordability with a welcoming small-town vibe, making it an excellent choice for students. Institutions like Anderson University and its proximity to Clemson University make it a student-friendly area. The city features low-cost housing, free community events, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. This makes it one of the cheapest cities to live in South Carolina for students.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 700/month |
| Utilities | USD 100/month |
| Transportation | USD 35/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 220/month |
5. Conway
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Home to Coastal Carolina University, Conway offers a mix of affordability and coastal charm. The city provides students with a serene study environment, affordable housing, and numerous part-time job opportunities. With Myrtle Beach just a short drive away, students can enjoy the beach without the high living costs.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 750/month |
| Utilities | USD 105/month |
| Transportation | USD 40/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 230/month |
6. Sumter
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Sumter is a budget-friendly city that balances small-town charm with access to educational opportunities at the University of South Carolina Sumter. Students here benefit from low living costs, peaceful neighbourhoods, and a tight-knit community. The city also offers beautiful parks and affordable dining options. Hence, it is among one of the cheapest cities to live in South Carolina.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 700/month |
| Utilities | USD 100/month |
| Transportation | USD 35/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 220/month |
7. Greenville
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While Greenville is a growing city with a vibrant downtown, it still offers affordable living options for students. With institutions like Furman University and Greenville Technical College, the city has a strong student presence. Public transport and shared housing options make Greenville a great place for balancing studies and social life.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 850/month |
| Utilities | USD 115/month |
| Transportation | USD 50/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 240/month |
8. Orangeburg
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Orangeburg, home to South Carolina State University and Claflin University, is a highly affordable city for students. The city’s low housing costs and proximity to campus amenities make it ideal for student living. Orangeburg also offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 700/month |
| Utilities | USD 100/month |
| Transportation | USD 35/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 220/month |
9. Rock Hill
Rock Hill offers a perfect blend of affordability and accessibility for students attending Winthrop University. The city provides inexpensive housing and public transportation, alongside opportunities for part-time work. Its proximity to Charlotte, North Carolina, adds a layer of convenience for internships and weekend trips.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 750/month |
| Utilities | USD 105/month |
| Transportation | USD 40/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 230/month |
10. Aiken
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Aiken is a peaceful and budget-friendly city, perfect for students seeking a quieter environment. The University of South Carolina Aiken attracts a diverse student population, and the city offers affordable living with a variety of parks and outdoor spaces for relaxation.
| Expense | Average Cost |
| Rent (1-bedroom) | USD 750/month |
| Utilities | USD 110/month |
| Transportation | USD 40/month (bus pass) |
| Groceries | USD 230/month |
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Additional Budgeting Tips for Students in South Carolina
- Transportation Savings: Opt for public transit or carpooling to cut down on commuting costs.
- Housing Hacks: Consider sharing apartments with roommates to split rent and utilities.
- Student Discounts: Always inquire about student discounts at local stores, restaurants, and attractions.
- Meal Prep: Cooking meals at home is significantly cheaper than dining out.
Choosing the right city to live in as a student can make a huge difference in your college experience. The cities listed above offer a mix of affordability, student-friendly amenities, and opportunities for personal growth. No matter where you decide to settle, South Carolina’s charm and welcoming communities will make your time as a student truly unforgettable. For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
FAQs
The cheapest city for students to live in South Carolina is often considered to be Orangeburg due to its affordable housing and low living expenses.
Students should consider factors like rent prices, cost of living (groceries, transportation), job availability, proximity to their university, and overall quality of life.
While Charleston is generally more expensive, there are affordable student housing options available in nearby neighbourhoods like North Charleston or James Island.
Columbia (home to the University of South Carolina) offers a decent public transportation system, making it convenient for students on a budget.
Greenville is relatively affordable, with average rents ranging from USD 700 to USD 1,100 for student-friendly apartments, and groceries and transportation costs are also reasonable.
Cities like Clemson and Aiken offer a good balance of affordable living and a strong student presence due to local universities.
Students in Columbia often live in areas like Five Points and Rosewood, which are close to the University of South Carolina and offer budget-friendly rental options.
Rent in Anderson is generally low, with average rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from USD 600 to USD 900 per month.
Yes, most cities like Spartanburg, Sumter, and Florence have a range of part-time job opportunities, especially in retail, dining, and service sectors, which are ideal for students.
Smaller towns like Orangeburg and Aiken are generally very affordable, with rent costs often under USD 800 a month and low prices for food, utilities, and transportation.
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