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Overall Rating: 85/100 · 370,000 veterans (7.2% of population)
Full exemption on all military retirement income (effective 2022). Previously only $3,000 exempt ($10,000 for 65+).
0.53% average effective rate
Up to $100
Vehicle sales tax (IMF) exemption up to 2 vehicles for 100% P&T disabled veterans (5% capped at $500 per vehicle). Free license plates and registration for 100% disabled. Free metered parking statewide.
$129,000
VA Medical Center
109 Bee Street, Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 577-5011
Full medical center with primary care, specialty care, mental health, surgery, inpatient services, emergency care, spinal cord injury unit, cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, audiology, optometry, prosthetics
State Tuition Waiver
Children (up to age 26) of 100% P&T disabled SC veterans, deceased veterans killed during service or from service-connected disabilities, POW/MIA, or Medal of Honor recipients. Both student and veteran must be SC residents 12+ months.
4-year value: $60,000
Median Home
$300,000
1BR Rent
$1,400/mo
COL Index
98
Unemployment
2.8%
Major employers: Coastal Carolina University, Tidelands Health, Grand Strand Medical Center, hospitality/tourism, retail, Horry County Schools
Pros: Named best city for veterans 2025 (Veterans United), affordable coastal living, 28,000+ veterans (8% of population), beach lifestyle, zero military retirement tax, full property tax exemption for 100% disabled
Cons: Tourist crowds, hurricane risk, lower average salaries (service economy), schools average (6/10), 90 min to Charleston VA Medical Center for specialty care
Most veterans considering South Carolina for relocation pair this with one of these next steps:
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Buying a home
$0 down, no PMI. Funding fee waived for service-connected veterans.
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