Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
31% cheaper
Charleston is 31% more affordable than San Diego. A $75,000 salary in San Diego is equivalent to $51,562 in Charleston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: South Carolina salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 127 while San Diego sits at 248 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $380,000 compared to $800,000 in San Diego, a difference of $420,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Charleston versus $2,500 in San Diego.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charleston scores 102 while San Diego scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (104) are lower than San Diego (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charleston is $65,872 compared to $79,646 in San Diego. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
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