Watcharu Finance

South Carolina property tax calculator

South Carolina's effective property tax rate averages about 0.57% of market value — below the roughly 1.0% national average. That's roughly $1,653 a year on the state's $290,000 median home. The calculator is pre-filled with that rate.

$1,653 / year

Per month
$137.75
Assessed value
$290,000
Effective rate
0.57%

Rates vary by county and city — check your local assessor for the exact figure.

How it works

Your county assessor sets a taxable (assessed) value, which may be below market value, then applies the combined rate of every taxing body — county, city, school district, and any special levies. A homestead or senior exemption reduces the assessed value before the rate is applied, so an owner-occupied home often owes less than the headline rate on a rental or second home.

For comparison, homeowners insurance in South Carolina averages about $2,200 a year, so on the median home the tax bill is the smaller of the two escrow items. South Carolina caps vehicle sales tax at a low flat amount and assesses owner-occupied homes at a favorable 4% ratio, giving primary residents one of the lowest effective property tax rates in the country. Coastal insurance is the exception.

Frequently asked questions

What is the property tax rate in South Carolina?
South Carolina's effective property tax rate averages about 0.57% of a home's market value — below the roughly 1.0% national average. That works out to roughly $1,653 a year on the state's $290,000 median home.
How is property tax calculated in South Carolina?
Your county assessor sets a taxable (assessed) value, which may be below market value, then applies the combined rate of every taxing body — county, city, school district, and special levies. Exemptions like a homestead exemption reduce the assessed value first.
Property tax vs. homeowners insurance in South Carolina — which costs more?
On the median home, South Carolina property tax runs about $1,653 a year versus roughly $2,200 for insurance. Insurance is the larger of the two here.
Can I lower my property tax bill in South Carolina?
Most owners can file a homestead exemption on a primary residence, and you can appeal the assessed value if comparable sales suggest it's too high. Senior, veteran, and disability exemptions may also apply.

Learn more: How property tax works

Other South Carolina calculators

Related calculators

Property tax calculator for another state

← Full calculator & all states