Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Charleston is 11% more affordable than Scottsdale. A $75,000 salary in Scottsdale is equivalent to $67,073 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 · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 127 while Scottsdale sits at 162 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $380,000 compared to $580,000 in Scottsdale, a difference of $200,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,600 in Charleston versus $2,000 in Scottsdale.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Charleston scores 102 while Scottsdale scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (104) are higher than Scottsdale (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charleston is $65,872 compared to $92,298 in Scottsdale. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
Amazon affiliate links