Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
San Antonio is 18% more affordable than Charleston. A $75,000 salary in Charleston is equivalent to $61,364 in San Antonio.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: South Carolina salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 127 while San Antonio sits at 78 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $380,000 compared to $250,000 in San Antonio, a difference of $130,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Charleston versus $1,200 in San Antonio.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charleston scores 102 while San Antonio scores 93.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (104) are higher than San Antonio (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charleston is $65,872 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in San Antonio.
Amazon affiliate links