The gasoline tax is very low in South Carolina, and the state usually has the lowest fuel costs in the nation as a result. Equal Housing Lender. Most people can get used to the fact that South Carolinians like to put mustard in their barbecue sauce. There is plenty of healthy fresh food available in the Beaufort area, but the southern tradition of fried food is hard to escape. Although you will face the risk of the occasional hurricane when you start living in South Carolina, the weather is typically advantageous throughout the year. Mixed-age residents include young families and retirees. The most annoying part of summer is dealing with mosquitoes, and that problem lasts for months. I enjoy the outlets Beaufort has. The pros and cons of living in South Carolina work to balance the cost of the experience with the opportunities that are available. There are Native American cultures as well that have an influence. All Rights Reserved. I love the scenary. Boils are a way of life here, and you should take advantage of every single one that you can discover. This hot period is brief each year, but it is hard to contend with if you dont have air conditioning. Beaufort offers affordability, good schools, planned communities, artistic and cultural events, restaurants, shopping, and healthy outdoor pursuits. Sometimes dangerously hot. When calculating the cost of living in Beaufort, South Carolina we factor in state income tax rates, average housing rental prices, average property values, cost of living index, and more. Living in Beaufort offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents rent their homes. It has been a great experience. It can be challenging to find a fast way to work when commuting. 7. Clothing is taxed at a rate of 8.5%. Active retirement communities in Beaufort, SC, focus on the needs and interests of adults age 55 and up. 9. Even when the temperatures are hot, the humidity level is lower. The cost of living, in general, is not much higher than average, but the cost of housing makes it seem worse. 11. It is a great place to experience the art of several cultures in one place. You will find some of the oldest continuously operating community theater groups are located in South Carolina, with the Footlight Players in Charleston being an excellent example of this advantage. Citytistics.com explains: Aliveability rating measures the cost of living, crime rate, education, and residents happiness. Even after achieving a. However, everyone wants something different in the city or town they call home, so looking at the pros and cons of the place can help you decide if its right for you. A truly sweet, southern town. It has a unique flavor that originated in the South Carolina lowlands. Many coastal areas have become a bit more upscale, and have lost some of that charm, but not Beaufort. One of the reasons so many people are drawn to Beaufort is because of its idyllic setting. You will also need to pay an income tax when you live in South Carolina, where the state does not differentiate between filing statuses. Beaufort has a strong tradition of Southern cooking, so youll be able to eat delicious comfort foods such as fried chicken, greens, mashed potatoes, and many desserts. Provides auto-suggestions when entering text, Niche requires Javascript to work correctly. 16 Pros and Cons of Living in South Carolina, 11 Pros and Cons of Living in Bluffton, SC, Cost of Living in South Carolina Cities: These Are the Top 5, 13 Pros and Cons of Living in Charleston, SC, Pros and Cons of Living in Beaufort, SC Summary Table. South Carolina is generally ranked around 44th or 45th in terms of education. Shopping is very limited to Walmarts (many) TJ Maxx, and a small Talbot's store. The only thing left for teens to do is hang out at the beach or in the waterfront park. Beaufort can feel isolating, as its far from other major cities. Beaufort is one of the most beautiful towns in the country. You just never really know what the average day might bring. The cost of living in South Carolina is considerably higher when you compare the cost of your essentials. Columbia is a little more dangerous in that regard, with a rate that is 2.5 times higher. Beaufort residents think Beaufort is a nice town and apparently, so does the rest of the country. This data and scores are a weighted average of the areas schools. If you purchase alcohol in a restaurant, then you might pay a tax of up to 15% on the amount you buy. Exploration of the area began around 1540 when Hernando de Soto fulfilled the obligation of his expedition here. There is so much to see and do in Beaufort that you might never get bored. The poverty rate of Beaufort is 18.9%, which is 26% higher than national average. And yes, for every list of pros, there is also a list of cons., Beaufort, SC, is the best place to spend your retirement. Almost every street has a story to tell. Yet, the city is rather isolated from major urban centers, and no more than 14,000 people are living in the city. You might not even have to pay much in state income tax if you qualify for all the deductions. We have good air quality, a comfortable climate, adequate doctors per capita, and no state estate tax or state income tax on Social Security or the first $15,000 of other retirement income. I believe things are changing for the better but, it is time that our younger generation step up and be a voice in the community as well. There are ample hunting and fishing opportunities. View future changes in the minimum wage in your location by visiting, If you move from Chicago IL, Dallas, TX, or Miami, FL, the percent increase of your, If you move from New York, NY, San Francisco, CA, or Washington, DC, the percent reduction of your. Drivers are aggressive and inattentive. The Village of Taunton Mills. Although, it is becoming crowded. The highest income tax rate in SC is. pros and cons of living on daufuskie island. We have a rich cultural history, beautiful scenery, and great restaurants. You will find that almost everything has a story of some sort to tell, from the old cobblestone streets to the iron gates that help to guard an estate. All Rights Reserved. It takes time to get there, so you might find yourself missing the comfort and excitement of a major city. Seafood feasting is a way of life in Beaufort. According to Wallet Hub, South Carolina has the 11th lowest tax burden in the nation. If you relocate to Beaufort, you will feel at home very quickly. These ranking calculations consider public-school graduation rates, enrollment rates, teacher-to-student ratios, and student and parent reviews. Calculated annually per 100,000 residents. - 11/14/2012 I love living in Bluffton, SC I moved to the south . Beaufort is a small little town that is slowly growing. They will TAX the crap out of you illegally!!! A hot summer is usually followed by cooler temperatures during the winter months when heating expenses may be low. There is nothing that suggests this disadvantage is going to end soon, especially if you find yourself in places like the James Island Connector. After reading a number of the comments - it seems that those writers did not try to find good things about Beaufort. Groceries and utilities also cost more than the national average. List of the Pros of Living in South Carolina 1. How friendly is it towards NYers? The city is extremely beautiful The natural beauty of Beaufort is breathtaking. Beaufort County is slightly above the national average, and the rest of the state is well below the national average. People are friendly and welcoming. Property taxes are among the lowest in the country. Even winters in the city are relatively warm and, although nights can occasionally be cold, most days are in the low 60s, even in December and January. Beaufort, South Carolina has good air quality 87.0% of the time or 317 days per year. I've grown up here all my life, and have had the opportunity to spend my summers down on Hunting Island, an opportunity that I was truly blessed to have. Is it expensive to live in Beaufort, South Carolina? State income taxes and property taxes are both low, and there is also a lower tax on gasoline, so filling up your car often costs much less than in other parts of the country. People in the south love their good food, and it seems that every social function that exists involves some really good food. There's some moderate development around. SC Lic #23668. The very hot part of summer is usually not more than a week or so. Many people who move to South Carolina can also qualify for state income tax deductions, further reducing their tax rate. The historic downtown, as well as marshy areas around the city, make it a natural site for movie making. Shrimp boil, Frogmore Stew, and softshell crabs may become your new favorite foods. For the most part, Beaufort is an okay place to live. Rental rates. Construction is a way of life in South Carolina. Pros and Cons of living in Beaufort, South Carolina according to Data Pros and Cons of living in Beaufort, South Carolina in reviews from users in their own words: Do you live in Beaufort, South Carolina? NMLS Licenses Access Page. But, of course, as with all choices we make, there are pros and cons. Getting around in South Carolina is super simple for most families. What is difficult to ignore when you start living in the state is the presence of the wildlife: specifically, alligators. Although this disadvantage is far from significant, it can be frustrating until you get used to the formality of it for some families. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'howthingscompare_com-box-2','ezslot_3',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-howthingscompare_com-box-2-0');With beautiful weather and picturesque scenery, Beaufort, South Carolina, seems like a wonderful place to live. The commutes are tolerable, even if you decide to live somewhere like Charleston. 5. Based on the housing stock, population density, and the proximity of amenities of the area. Beautiful place, wonderful scenery. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Having mustard in the sauce makes it yellow and even gives the meat a slightly yellow tinge. Malls are basically empty. The nightlife is amazing, especially if you spend it out on the waterfront. Real estate referral services from MyAgentFinder by Home & Money | MyAgentFinder is a registered Service Mark of BTRN, LLC, a licensed Real Estate Office. That means the average homeowner here will pay about $850 per year in property taxes. Murder rates are very low, but the rate of robberies and rapes is slightly higher than the national average. However, it is crucial to consider the cons before moving, such as the high crime rate, lack of educational opportunities, and the possible feeling of isolation. Downtown has a similar air to Charleston because of the stately historic residences and historical buildings. With its film festivals, world-class restaurants, some of the best fresh seafood, dairy products, and produce in the US, art galleries, concerts, theaters, historical monuments, award-winning universities and schools, and accessible quality health care, this beautiful town offers the best of what matters to your quality of life. Beaufort is much smaller than Charleston and is often listed as one of the best places to live in the state or even the nation. To be honest, I had been looking for a way to move out of Southern California for a while. Things are also pretty spread out because it is a bunch of islands that make up the area. You have been warned. The state is working to diversify its economy from the heavy emphasis on agriculture that it has typically seen, with growth levels exceptionally high in the technology sector. Retirees can pursue an active lifestyle in the company of other adults of similar ages and interests. South Carolina has a state income tax with excellent tax deductions for resident retirees. Beaufort has consistently ranked among the best small towns for livability, and potential retirement sites, both at the state and national levels. Niche may be compensated by the third party lenders and others who place ads on the website. Although the unemployment rate in South Carolina is typically a percentage point higher than what the national average tends to be, cities like Charleston are exceptional markets where unemployment levels are usually significantly lower. You will find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy when living in the state. I don't understand how people love this place. A lot of local businesses to to visit, much more of a older perosn town. Wherever you go in Beaufort, the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. Lowcountry Living Retirement in Beaufort. Although the fuel tax in South Carolina is exceptionally low compared to the national standard, the other taxes that you will pay for the items you want are relatively high. Even on the sunny days, the humidity levels are not the same here as they are in other coastal locations. A, Charlotte, NC 28273. There are plenty of public school access no matter where you choose to live in town. Most people in South Carolina are exceptionally friendly. You will want to carefully consider your budget before moving to the state to ensure that your employment opportunities, retirement benefits, or other sources of income can cover what you require. The sky in Beaufort is beyond breathtaking yet, that is the best part about it. Jobs are plentiful enough but often not paying well. There are some terminology differences to consider. One of the main reasons South Carolina has become a retirement destination is the weather. Beauforts year-round temperature averages about 65 degrees. The native populations attempted to fight back to keep their land, but the Yamasee War kept the colony intact. Pros Strong economy Plenty of amenities Good health Cons Humid Hurricane threat Flooding threat What Bert Has To Say About Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort Metro Area The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Beaufort, SC metro area is located on a barrier island on the Atlantic Coast, 20 miles northeast of Savannah GA. The median cost of a home is about $100,000 more than the national average, although housing expenses such as rent are slightly lower than the national average. I like the friendliness of the people. Beaufort has a better average annual temperature than the vast majority of the United States. It's a mecca now for northern retirees. towards people from upper-income families. Beauforts amazing history of Gullah culture, which is exclusive to the lowcountry, is, perhaps, the citys most fascinating asset. Temperatures often reach into the low 90s, and rain is most frequent during July and August. There is a lot of wealth in the low country and in Beaufort County, and there is a fair amount of poverty. Beaufort is the epitome of a small town. You can learn to catch shrimp in the marshes too. I recently live in Port Royal with my mom, dad and grandma for my entire 22 years of my life. Although you will have an income tax to pay when living in South Carolina, your property taxes are typically lower because of its presence. Congress would shut down the civilian government in 1867, place the state in Reconstruction for the next decade, and then the structure of the laws shifted back toward pre-war tendencies for white preference and land ownership for voting. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour while South Carolina's state law sets the minimum wage rate at $7.25 per hour in 2023. People in this area tend to be welcoming to strangers, as well as old friends. Beaufort's residents have a median household income of $49,583, with males receiving an average income that's 1.37 times higher compared to females at just $43,921. Hilton Head Island is in Beaufort County and is one of the best places to live in South Carolina. Pleasant weather 9 months of the year. Beaufort has done a beautiful job preserving many trees which says a lot about their care for nature! 13. Most were wealthy planters and their slaves that were currently living in Barbados. You will love the friendly and welcoming southern hospitality. If you're looking for small town living in the south, Beaufort is the place to be. You can also visit Fort Sumter with a simple ferry ride, allowing you to have a chance to stand at the exact spot where the conflict began in the 19th century. People can lower their chance of becoming a victim of a crime by locking their home and car doors, choosing a safe area to live in, and avoiding some streets later in the evening. Beaufort has a strong culture of hospitality, which means that most people you meet in the city will be friendly and welcoming. There is something locally sourced and inviting to eat in every season. A Beaufort resident would answer this question with an incredulous What are you waiting for? Practically speaking, however, moving to Beaufort is a personal decision. All are an integral part of the neighborhoods master plan. Is Beaufort the city for you? South Carolina also saw the first action during the Civil War when Confederate forces attacked Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. The atmosphere is relaxed and warm. But Beaufort is also an excellent place to live if you want a lively, vibrant, activity-packed lifestyle with fishing, cycling, galleries, concerts, fine dining, and easy-going friendly neighbors. In North Carolina, your Social Security benefits are not taxable; however, the state taxes most other retirement income at the flat rate of 5.25%. Some of the creeks and marshes are saltwater bodies, allowing you to easily take a canoe or kayak out to go exploring. City: Beaufort. Note: We would be transplanting from the NY Metropolitan area. Sorry. High income taxes for certain brackets South Carolina has a marginal income tax rate, ranging from 3 percent to 7 percent, but the top bracket kicks in at a low-income threshold: just $14,400. Port Royal has expanded since I have grown up and I cant be more proud. Many people even trap shrimp in the nearby marshes. The town is ideally located, close to both bases (MCAS and Parris Island. There are numerous ways for you to enjoy the outdoors when you start calling South Carolina your home. The sky in Beaufort is beyond breathtaking yet, that is the best part about it. No matter what outdoor activity you like, you will find plenty of it in Beaufort. Some private institutions charge exorbitant tuition rates. 13310 S Ridge Dr. Ste. Because the weather is consistently nice when living here, you will discover that owning a bicycle is almost mandatory since it is such an easy way to make it to your destination. Shoppers can then walk up and down trying any sales and specials they have going on. I would like to see changed the idea that everyone gets rent money, and the adjustments to rent based on military housing allowances. Add to that the coastal low-country culture, and you have a cuisine that is unique to the area along the coast. The closest major city is Charleston, but its an hour and a half drive away, which can make it difficult to travel to and from the city for entertainment. It tastes good, so few people can resist it. Daily access to the beach. Temperatures rarely fall below 40 degrees in the winter, and many days even reach the 50s. Avoid the main roads from 3:30th to 5:30, traffic is horrible. History comes alive for you when living in South Carolina. 10. Schools in the Beaufort area are not rated highly by state or national standards. Stately, historic mansions and historical buildings give the downtown a feel that rivals Charleston. List of the Pros of Living in Charlotte, NC. Enter your email to get connected and notified about our services.