Cap Rate for South Carolina (2026)

Last updated: March 1, 2026

South Carolina (SC) Key Facts

Average Cap Rate

6.5%

Market Type

Buyer's market

Median Property Value

$290,000

Average Annual Rent (1 B R)

$13,200

Estimated N O I

$7,920

How This Calculator Works in South Carolina

This cap rate calculator helps you evaluate the return potential of investment properties in South Carolina. Enter the property's value, annual rental income, and operating expenses to instantly calculate the cap rate. Compare your result against South Carolina's average of 6.5% to see how a specific property stacks up. The calculator is pre-loaded with South Carolina averages for quick estimates.

South Carolina Overview

The average cap rate in South Carolina is 6.5%, with median property values of $300,000 and average 1BR rents of $1,200/month. South Carolina is landlord-friendly, which reduces regulatory risk for investors. Without statewide rent control, South Carolina allows market-rate rent adjustments that can improve cap rates over time.

How South Carolina Compares

South Carolina's cap rate of 6.5% is above average, making it one of the more attractive states for cash-flow investing. Neighboring North Carolina has a cap rate of 6% and Georgia is at 6%. Investors often diversify across states with different cap rate profiles to balance cash flow and appreciation.

StateTop RateNotes
North Carolina6%Average cap rate of 6% with median property value of $325,000. Balanced market.
Georgia6%Average cap rate of 6% with median property value of $320,000. Balanced market.
Tennessee6.2%Average cap rate of 6.2% with median property value of $310,000. Balanced market.

South Carolina's average cap rate of 6.5% places it in buyer's market territory. Nationally, cap rates range from about 3.5% in expensive coastal markets to 8% or more in affordable Midwest and Southern states. Higher cap rates indicate better cash-flow returns, while lower cap rates often come with stronger appreciation potential.

Tips for South Carolina Residents

  • 1The average cap rate in South Carolina is 6.5%. Cap rate = net operating income / property value. Above-average cap rates in South Carolina suggest strong cash-flow opportunities relative to property values.
  • 2When calculating cap rate in South Carolina, deduct all operating expenses: property taxes (1.1%), insurance, maintenance, vacancy, and management fees. Do not include mortgage payments—cap rate measures unleveraged return.
  • 3South Carolina has no rent control, meaning you can raise rents to market rates and improve your cap rate as the local rental market appreciates.
  • 4Compare cap rates across South Carolina neighborhoods. Urban cores often have lower cap rates (higher prices, lower yields) while suburban and secondary markets may offer better returns. A 1-2% cap rate difference on a $300,000 property changes annual net income by $3,000-$6,000.
  • 5South Carolina's landlord-friendly environment reduces operational risk, which is already reflected in cap rates. Lower regulatory risk means investors may accept slightly lower cap rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

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