Free comparison
Moving from Washington to South Carolina
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Tech (Amazon, MS), no income tax, rainy West side. vs. Beaches, BMW + Boeing manufacturing, retiree influx.
Washington
Capital: Olympia
Median household income $90,325 · winter low 35°F · 152 sunny days
Tech (Amazon, MS), no income tax, rainy West side.
South Carolina
Capital: Columbia
Median household income $63,623 · winter low 33°F · 216 sunny days
Beaches, BMW + Boeing manufacturing, retiree influx.
South Carolina has an overall price level 93.7 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 91°F · Winter low 33°F · 216 sunny days/yr.
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See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in South Carolina than Washington?
South Carolina's overall price level is roughly 94.6 (US avg = 100), vs about 105.8 for Washington — based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
Washington tops out at 0% income tax. South Carolina tops out at 6%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in South Carolina?
Most South Carolina residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.