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South Carolina renters get slammed with the biggest rent hike in America
New York Post • • business
Key Points:
- South Carolina has experienced the fastest rent increase in the U.S., with median gross rent rising 19.2% from $1,170 in 2023 to $1,395 in 2025, nearly doubling the national average increase of 10.7%.
- The state's rapid population growth of 3.33% over two years, driven by its appeal as a top destination for movers and strong job gains, has intensified housing demand amid insufficient new construction.
- A 2023 study highlighted a persistent housing shortage due to rapid growth and underbuilding since the Great Recession, disproportionately impacting lower-income households, with about 90% estimated to be housing-cost burdened.
- Rent increases have been most pronounced in states with previously lower rents, while already expensive states like Hawaii and Colorado saw smaller rises, indicating a loss of affordability in traditionally cheaper markets.
- While South Carolina's Census data shows significant rent hikes, recent trends suggest rents stabilized in 2025 with rising vacancies and new construction, potentially easing pressure for current tenants.
