The cost of living in a particular location refers to the amount of money necessary to cover an individual’s basic expenses in that particular area within a specific time period. This includes housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses.
Knowing the cost of living in Bluffton, SC, allows you to compare the affordability of living in this town compared to your current place of residence. This will help you determine if your plans of moving here would be beneficial for you and your family, given your projected income.
Overall Cost of Living in Bluffton, SC
The average Bluffton cost of living is $2,595. This places Bluffton in the top 7% of the most expensive cities in the world. In the United States, it ranks 543rd out of 2,202 cities and 2nd out of 26 in South Carolina.
| Cost of Living | Bluffton | South Carolina | United States |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 104.3 | 89.3 | 100 |
| Grocery | 102.7 | 95.8 | 100 |
| Health | 104.7 | 102.7 | 100 |
| Housing | 112.6 | 76.6 | 100 |
| Utilities | 101.1 | 103.9 | 100 |
| Transportation | 79.2 | 86.8 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 94.6 | 76.3 | 100 |
Based on the table above showing the cost-of-living indexes for Bluffton, everyday expenses, such as groceries, transportation, healthcare, and utilities align closely with national averages.
A cost-of-living index is based on a national average of 100. So, for example, if the COL index of housing in Bluffton is 112.6, then it is 12.6% higher than the average in the whole of the United States.
Housing Costs
The most expensive expense in Bluffton, SC, is housing. While many neighborhoods in South Carolina have lower housing costs, this town’s home prices are slightly higher compared to the national average.
As of July 2025, Bluffton home prices were selling for a median price of $533,750. The average rent, on the other hand, is $2,450 per month as of September 2025.
The table below shows the average monthly rent for apartments based on their size:
| Floor Plan Type | Average Rent | Average Square Feet |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,223/month | 420 Sq Ft |
| One Bedroom | $1,812/month | 809 Sq Ft |
| Two Bedroom | $2,008/month | 1,141 Sq Ft |
| Three Bedroom | $2,360/month | 1,366 Sq Ft |
Utilities and Energy Expenses
Utility costs in Bluffton, including electricity, water, heating, and internet, are comparable to the national average. However, it’s important to note that utility bills might fluctuate seasonally due to weather patterns, especially during hot and humid summers or very cold winters.
| Utilities in Bluffton, South Carolina | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly Energy Bill | $233 |
| Monthly Phone Bill | $141 |
Transportation Costs
Bluffton provides limited regional bus service (Palmetto Breeze) and the Bluffton Breeze circulator; local fixed-route transit is limited — most residents rely on personal vehicles.


A seasonal trolley operates on Hilton Head Island (the Breeze Trolley) and Palmetto Breeze provides commuter/regional routes across the Lowcountry.
A bike-share program is also available for those who prefer to get around this quaint town without relying on a car or bus. In addition, Ride Solutions offers door-to-door rides for people with disabilities and seniors who require specialized assistance.
The average one-way commute in Bluffton, SC, takes around 26.2 minutes, slightly shorter than the national average of 26.4 minutes.
| Utilities in Bluffton, South Carolina | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly Energy Bill | $214.48 |
| Monthly Phone Bill | $207.47 |
Transportation Costs
Bluffton provides several bus routes that allow easy access to various areas within the city, including stops at schools, shopping centers, hospitals, and other community destinations.
A bike-share program is also available for those who prefer to get around this quaint town without relying on a car or bus. In addition, Ride Solutions offers door-to-door rides for people with disabilities and seniors who require specialized assistance.
The average one-way commute in Bluffton, SC, takes around 26.2 minutes, slightly shorter than the national average of 26.4 minutes.
Grocery and Food Expenses
The average cost of food expenses in Bluffton, SC varies by eating habits. For a family of four, food expenses could range from approximately $1,700-$1,900 per month.
Below, you’ll see the average costs of common dining options:
| Food Items / Meals | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Lunch at an Inexpensive Restaurant | $20.10 |
| Dinner for 2 in a Restaurant | $70.60 |
| Fast-Food Meal | $10.80 |
| Beer in a Pub | $6.00 |
| Cappuccino | $4.96 |
| Coke/Pepsi (0.5 L or 16.9 fl oz) | $2.58 |
Healthcare Costs
One important basic expense is affordable healthcare. Bluffton residents have access to excellent healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and medical centers in the area.
Coastal Carolina Hospital and Hilton Head Regional Medical Center are just a short drive, offering a wide range of services. Several primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers can also be found throughout the town and surrounding areas.
Even though these are average costs, they all are dependent on services provided, insurance coverage, and other variables for individuals or families.
| Visit to a Medical Professional | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| General Practitioner | $145.52 |
| Dentist | $150.00 |
| Optometrist | $133.28 |
| Prescription Drug | $252.64 |
| Veterinarian | $75 |
Education and Childcare Expenses
Bluffton, SC, is served by the Beaufort County School District, which offers a variety of educational opportunities for students, including traditional public schools, charter schools, and magnet programs.
Beaufort County School District is esteemed for its commitment to academic excellence and several schools under its umbrella that consistently receive high ratings.
For those seeking higher education, Bluffton is conveniently located near reputable colleges and universities, including the University of South Carolina Beaufort, Technical College of the Lowcountry, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Armstrong State University.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Bluffton, SC, may be slightly higher compared to the national average but it is quite reasonable given the area’s amenities and lifestyle.
While the cost of living in this quaint town would be a consideration for those who are contemplating moving to this location, other factors like its Southern charm, natural beauty, and community spirit make it an attractive place to call home for many.
If you’d like to know your home options in Bluffton, SC, please give me a call at 843-310-6339 or send me an email at info@sequelsc.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bluffton an affordable place to live?
Yes, with an overall cost of living index of 104.3, Bluffton is at par with the national average.
What are the average utility costs in Bluffton?
The average energy bill in Bluffton is $214.48.
Is Bluffton a good place for retirees?
The Lowcountry of South Carolina, home to both Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, along with Hilton Head Island, is regarded as one of the best places to retire in South Carolina.
