Average Rent in Cherokee County, SC↑ Rents rising 0.9% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 56,299
Market Overview
Cherokee County, SC has rental prices ranging from $713/month to $1,354/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $718/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $49,047/year, spending $718/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Cherokee County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $942/month, Cherokee County ranks #21 most expensive of the 38 cities tracked in South Carolina — pricier than 54% of all US cities in our data.
The Cherokee County Rental Market
The Cherokee County, SC area has a population of about 56,299 and 27% 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 Cherokee County, SC have risen by $8/month (0.9%) over the past year, from $934 to $942. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Cherokee County, SC without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,720. The local median household income of $49,047 exceeds that threshold by $20,327, making Cherokee County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Cherokee County, SC has an unemployment rate of 5.5%, 1.6 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Cherokee County, SC Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in SClargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anderson | $787 | $792 | $947 | $1,204 | — |
| Greenville | $1,136 | $1,180 | $1,306 | $1,599 | — |
| Columbia | $1,063 | $1,172 | $1,298 | $1,656 | — |
| Charleston | $1,583 | $1,644 | $1,820 | $2,255 | — |
| Myrtle Beach | $1,133 | $1,199 | $1,406 | $1,771 | — |
| Spartanburg | $1,053 | $1,094 | $1,211 | $1,493 | — |
Rent or Buy in Cherokee County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Cherokee County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in Cherokee County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Cherokee CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in SCSee how Cherokee County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Cherokee CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋SC Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections