The Direct Answer: The cost of living in Anderson, SC in 2026 is approximately 9% to 15% lower than the national average, making it one of the most affordable cities in the Upstate. While housing remains the biggest saver—costing roughly 28% less than the U.S. average—everyday expenses like groceries actually trend about 3% higher than national norms. To live comfortably as a single adult in 2026, a pre-tax salary of approximately $40,032 to $68,000 is recommended depending on your housing choice.

1. Housing Costs: The "Electric City" Advantage

Housing is where your budget stretches furthest in Anderson.

The Buying Market (2026)

• Median List Price: $299,933.

• Average Home Value: $265,289, showing a steady 0.9% annual growth.

• Market Pace: Homes typically go under contract in about 50 to 71 days, giving buyers more breathing room than in previous years.

The Rental Market (2026)

• Average Apartment Rent: $1,001 (38% lower than the national average).

• 3-Bedroom House Rental: Expect to pay approximately $1,748 per month.

• Most Affordable Pockets: Downtown Anderson and the Anderson Core currently offer the best rental value.

2. Utilities, Groceries, and Daily Expenses

Once you’ve secured your home, your month-to-month operational costs in Anderson remain manageable.

• Monthly Energy Bill: Averages $193.70, which is about 9% lower than the national average.

• Average Electric Rate: 12.2¢ per kWh for Upstate residents.

• Grocery Budget: Expect to spend roughly $772/month for a single person or $1,503/month for a family of four. While basics like milk ($4.00) are cheaper, specialty items can drive this category slightly above the national average.

• Healthcare: Costs are roughly 2% lower than the national average, with a typical doctor's visit costing about $135.

3. The 2026 Tax Snapshot

South Carolina is famous for low property taxes, but only if you follow the rules.

• The 4% Rule: Primary residents pay a 4% assessment rate, resulting in one of the lowest effective tax rates in the U.S. (approx. 0.45%).

• The 6% Warning: Second homes and investment properties are taxed at a 6% rate, which can effectively double your tax bill on the same property.

• Vehicle Taxes: Be prepared for an annual personal property tax on vehicles, assessed at 6% of market value.

4. Lifestyle & Income Tradeoffs

To maintain a high quality of life in Anderson, your income needs to align with your lifestyle expectations.

• Remote Workers: Those bringing a "big city" salary to Anderson often find they can afford luxury lakefront properties on Lake Hartwell that would be unattainable in larger metros.

• Local Earners: The stability of major employers like AnMed Health and Michelin provides a consistent baseline for local families to thrive.

Ready to see how your budget fits Anderson?

The best way to understand the cost of living is to see it in action. I can help you run a custom 2026 "Payment vs. Lifestyle" report for any neighborhood you're considering.