Rock Hill, SC vs. Huntersville, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Rock Hill or Huntersville? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison to help you decide:
- 🏠 Median home price: $325K in Rock Hill vs $450K in Huntersville
- ⚡ Avg utility bill: $180/mo in Rock Hill vs $210/mo in Huntersville
- 🥑 Groceries for family of 4: $800/mo in Rock Hill vs $950/mo in Huntersville
- 💸 Property tax rate: 0.84% in Rock Hill vs 0.93% in Huntersville
For a deeper dive, this article provides a detailed cost of living comparison of Rock Hill, SC vs nearby Huntersville, NC. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Rock Hill vs Huntersville in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Rock Hill and Huntersville compare for typical housing:
| Housing Type | Rock Hill | Huntersville |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,400 | $1,800 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,600 | $2,200 |
🏆 Winner: Rock Hill. Housing costs are around 20-30% lower in Rock Hill compared to Huntersville.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Huntersville being slightly higher due to its proximity to Charlotte:
- Rock Hill: Expect monthly utility bills around $180 for a 2BR apartment or $250 for a 3BR home. Costs are fairly steady year-round.
- Huntersville: Budget $210/month for a 2BR and $300/month for a 3BR. Summer A/C usage can increase bills by 20-30%.
🏆 Winner: Rock Hill has the edge on utilities, with costs averaging 10-15% lower than Huntersville.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday goods, prices are comparable in Rock Hill and Huntersville. Expect to spend around:
- $800/month on groceries for a family of four
- $40-50 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal
- $4.50 for a gallon of milk or loaf of bread
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in the two cities.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both South Carolina and North Carolina have relatively low tax rates. Some key differences:
- Property tax: 0.84% in Rock Hill vs 0.93% in Huntersville
- Vehicle tax: SC charges a flat fee, while NC uses a depreciation-based tax
- HOA fees: $100-300/month is typical in both cities, often including amenities
🏆 Winner: Rock Hill. The lower property tax rate gives Rock Hill a slight advantage.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Rock Hill | Huntersville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR mortgage) | $1,600 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $250 | $300 |
| Groceries | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $300 | $350 |
| Taxes and Fees | $600 | $750 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,050 | $4,900 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While costs are lower in Rock Hill, Huntersville offers some compelling lifestyle advantages:
- Huntersville has more walkable neighborhoods and mixed-use developments
- Commuting to Charlotte is easier from Huntersville
- Rock Hill averages 3°F hotter in July and 4°F colder in January than Huntersville
Ultimately, the right fit depends on your priorities. Young professionals may prefer Huntersville’s amenities and location, while families looking to stretch their budget often choose Rock Hill.
7. FAQs
Is Rock Hill more affordable than Huntersville?
Yes, the cost of living is around 15-20% lower in Rock Hill compared to Huntersville, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Which city has lower rent?
Typical rent for a 2BR apartment is $1,400 in Rock Hill vs $1,800 in Huntersville.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Rock Hill has a lower median home price of $325K compared to $450K in Huntersville. Use our Monthly Budget Examples for Rock Hill Residents to estimate your costs.
8. Conclusion
While Rock Hill has a clear cost advantage, with housing and utilities 10-30% cheaper than Huntersville, the right choice depends on your lifestyle priorities. Rock Hill offers excellent value for families and budget-conscious households, while Huntersville’s location and amenities appeal to many young professionals and commuters.
For a more detailed look at expenses, see our full Cost of Living in Rock Hill (2025 Guide). Or compare other South Carolina cities to find the ideal fit for your budget and preferences.