Spartanburg's 2026 cost of living is $2255 per month for singles and $4965 per month for families of four.
Living costs in Spartanburg are 9% lower than the U.S. national average and 78% higher than South Carolina's state average.
This reflects a 2% increase from 2025.
The primary drivers of Spartanburg's cost of living are soaring housing costs, elevated transportation expenses, and rising food prices.
See how Spartanburg's cost of living affects your budget or salary needs with Salary.com's free Cost of Living Calculator.
Cost of Living Calculator
How does Spartanburg's cost of living compare to the national average in 2026?
Living in Spartanburg is less expensive than the national average,
with housing costs 24.6 % lower at $904
per month for a single person and $1658 per month for a family of four.
Food expenses run 35.3 %
below average at $259
monthly for an individual and $842 for a family,
while energy, transportation and healthcare costs are 26.6 % lower at about $642 per month
for one person and $1413 for a household.
These costs bring the total monthly expenses to $1805
for a single person and $3913 for a family of four,
making Spartanburg one of America's least expensive cities.
How does the cost of living compare when moving from other major cities to Spartanburg?
Spartanburg's 2025 cost of living is 108% lower than San Francisco,
57% less than Washington, 29% below Miami
, 23% lower than Chicago, 68% less than Boston
, and 92% below New York.
Essential for evaluating relocation costs and salary needs in Spartanburg.
Spartanburg is the most populous city in and the seat of Spartanburg County, South Carolina, United States, and the 12th-largest city by population in the state. The city of Spartanburg has a municipal population of 37,013, and Spartanburg County has an urban population of 180,786 as of the 2010 census. The Spartanburg Metropolitan Statistical Area, including Spartanburg and Union counties, had a population of 317,057 as of the 2010-2014 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates.
Spartanburg is the second-largest city in the greater Greenville–Spartanburg–Anderson Combined Statistical Area, w...
Source: Wikipedia (as of 04/11/2019). Read more from Wikipedia
Comments about the cost of living in Spartanburg, SC
Will the cost of food in Spartanburg, South Carolina impact the overall cost of living there?
Yes, cost of food is important as we all have to eat! There are ways to save money on your food expenses if you plan carefully. Check out stores like Tesco or Target to buy items in bulk at a considerable savings. At different times of the year you can get local produce for low prices at roadside stands or farmer’s markets. There are lots of ways to reduce food expenses and lower your overall cost of living in Spartanburg, SC. (2026-08-26salary.com)
Are there any good ways to save money on Cable TV and internet service in Spartanburg, SC?
The average cost of internet access in the U.S. is $66.20 per month. There are many providers and various packages that are offered, many that bundle internet, cable, and phone together. Pricing for various packages can vary a lot even in the same location. You should evaluate the options based on your usage and preferences and pick the best fit for your needs. One tip to reduce this cost and your overall cost of living, is to get cable service from another source like Direct TV, Netflix, Sling, Amazon Prime or others. (2026-08-26salary.com)
I am nervous about moving, what is the typical cost of moving to another city and what should I have to think about?
The average cost of moving to another state is around $5,600 for a distance of 1,200 miles. This price can vary a lot if the distance is greater and depending on how much is being moved. Even if your employer is covering the cost of a move, there will still be costs that are not covered. A cost that typically occurs is that your existing furniture and accessories are either too large, too small, or not appropriate for your new home. You may find that after you move, you will need to purchase many new items for the new location, for example, window coverings, rugs, lighting, and outdoor gear. Make sure you budget for these types of expenses and include them in the first year’s cost of living at your new location. Finally, although there is no dollar cost, is the stress of moving, which will increase if you have children or pets. Make sure you prepare in advance for what additional TLC those kids and pets will need to have a good move. (2026-08-26salary.com)
I am moving with children, what should I do to make the move less stressful for them and myself?
Adults find that moving can sometimes be an emotional and stressful experience. Children, who don’t have the maturity, independence, and understanding of a parent may be even more sensitive to a move. If they are old enough to understand, include the children in making plans for the move. When moving to a distant place, help your children learn about the new area. Check out the website for Spartanburg, South Carolina to find opportunities and activities in the new location like parks, beaches, museums, or playgrounds that kids will enjoy and look forward to visiting. (2026-08-26salary.com)
How much are average utility costs in Spartanburg, South Carolina compared to the rest of U.S.?
Electric costs in Spartanburg,SC are currently lower than average when compared to other states. Since a year ago the price of electricity in South Carolina has gone down about 1.224%. Electric costs will contribute to the energy component of your overall cost of living. (2026-08-26salary.com)
How do rental housing prices in Spartanburg,South Carolina impact the overall cost of living?
I am single and live in Spartanburg,SC, I rent a small 1 bedroom and the monthly rent is $463 . Rent contributes to a large part of the overall cost of living in Spartanburg,SC, I try to economize by having a small apartment. (2026-08-26salary.com)
Are there fun things to in Spartanburg, South Carolina that are free or don’t cost a lot?
Looks for areas of Spartanburg, South Carolina where there is a large student population. In those areas you will be sure to find lots of free or cheap events to go to and plenty of cheap places to eat. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your cost of living reasonable. Look at the website for Spartanburg, SC to find recommendations for activities that are available and unique to the area. (2026-08-26salary.com)
Will I have to pay a lot in taxes if I move to Spartanburg, South Carolina?
The sales tax for Spartanburg is 6%. This is the tax that you will pay on things that you buy. (2026-08-26salary.com)
Does Spartanburg, South Carolina have a good climate?
The weather in Spartanburg is ideal. Based on data collected by NOAA National Climatic Data Center, Spartanburg is considered to have one of the most favorable climates in the country based on comfort and number of days with clear skies. You will enjoy living in Spartanburg, South Carolina. (2026-08-26salary.com)
Can you save money using public transport?
You could save up to $1,000 per year, depending on your location, by using public transport instead of driving. Not only will you reduce the stress of driving and finding a place to park once you reach your destination, your car and tires will last longer, and you will spend less on gas. A side benefit is that you may be able to relax, work, or read on the way to work, or get to know and chat with other commuters. Some employers offer employees reduced fee bus or transit passes, so check that out with your employer. (2026-08-26salary.com)
Cost of Living Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cost of Living index and how is it used?
In the simplest terms, a Cost of Living index is the estimated amount that represents the cost of the basic necessities required for an individual to live. A cost of living or COL estimate may typically include estimates for housing, food, energy, medical care, transportation, taxes, and other necessities. A COL index may be used to measure what the cost difference would be for a person living in a certain location compared to another location. This cost of living comparison helps individuals make decisions about where they would like to live and what they can afford based on the costs in that location. A cost of living comparison can provide guidance about how an increase or decrease in these basic living expenses impacts necessary spending for an individual or a family.
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What factors are included in estimating your cost of living?
The Salary.com cost of living calculator estimate is based on data related to five general categories: housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and energy. These are the universally recognized core components of any cost of living estimate and represent those expenses that apply to everyone. Obviously, there may be other factors that could contribute to your particular cost of living situation and not everyone has the same spending habits. For example, education and/or childcare costs might not apply to everyone, but for those who have those expenses, they could be significant and should be considered when you evaluate your cost of living comparison.
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The Salary.com cost of living calculator is unique in that it also incorporates current salary data for thousands of jobs specific to a chosen home or work location to provide a more refined estimate of the cost of living variations. You can see how your job and your salary will be impacted by a change of location. If you live in one location but work in another, the cost of living calculator will make those adjustments to provide an accurate estimate of the change in COL. The Salary.com cost of living calculator helps you to make cost of living comparisons cost comparisons easily and quickly.
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Use our Salary Converter Tool, a user-friendly resource designed to see how much your salary will be if converted into hourly/weekly/biweekly/monthly/yearly pay. With just a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into your earning potential, ensuring you make informed financial decisions.
Use our Salary Converter Tool, a user-friendly resource designed to see how much your salary will be if converted into hourly/weekly/biweekly/monthly/yearly pay. With just a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into your earning potential, ensuring you make informed financial decisions.
