Average Rent in Beaufort County, SC↑ Rents rising 10.7% YoY🔺 Most expensive in SC

Beaufort County, SC has rental prices ranging from $1,772/month to $2,880/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,844/month — 32% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $84,819/year, spending $1,844/month on a 1-bedroom represents 26% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Beaufort County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,010/month, Beaufort County ranks #1 most expensive of the 38 cities tracked in South Carolina — pricier than 97% of all US cities in our data.

The Beaufort County Rental Market

The Beaufort County, SC area has a population of about 192,123 and 24% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Beaufort County, SC have risen by $194/month (10.7%) over the past year, from $1,816 to $2,010. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Beaufort County, SC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $73,760. The local median household income of $84,819 exceeds that threshold by $11,059, making Beaufort County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Beaufort County, SC has an unemployment rate of 3.7%, 0.2 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Beaufort County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Laurel Bay ($297,816 median home value), Jericho Woods ($318,442 median home value), Mossy Oaks ($338,848 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is Beaufort County, SC Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Beaufort County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Beaufort County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.