Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in South Carolina

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 49 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$43,668

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

44%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,365

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

When it comes to higher education in South Carolina, affordability is a key consideration for many students and families. With net prices varying significantly, finding a college that fits the budget while still offering solid career prospects is essential. In this ranking, we spotlight the most affordable colleges in the state, where the net prices are noticeably lower than the national average.

The schools on this list excel not just in affordability but also in key outcomes like earnings, graduation rates, and debt levels. For instance, while the average earnings for graduates across these colleges sit at $43,668, some schools show marked differences in how quickly students can achieve that financial stability. It's important to examine both the net price and the completion rates to understand what a school truly offers.

Take Trident Technical College and Spartanburg Community College as an example. Trident's graduates earn an average of $38,253, but with a 29% graduation rate and a net price of just $1,406, it stands out as a solid option. In contrast, Spartanburg’s average earnings are slightly higher at $37,097, but with a higher net price of $2,405 and the same graduation rate, students may find Trident to be the more affordable choice in the long run.

Key Findings

Trident Technical College has a low net price of $1,406 and average earnings of $38,253.

Spartanburg Community College has a slightly higher average earning of $37,097 but a higher net price of $2,405.

The average graduation rate among these colleges is 44%, indicating room for improvement.

Students at Horry-Georgetown Technical College face a net price of $4,159 and average debt of $14,250.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 49

Avg. earnings at 10yr $43,668

Avg. graduation rate 44%

Avg. net price $14,365

Avg. median debt $20,100

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in South Carolina

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Trident Technical College

Charleston, SC

Graduation29%

Earnings$38,253

Net Price$1,406

View full profile →

Spartanburg Community College

Spartanburg, SC

Graduation29%

Earnings$37,097

Net Price$2,405

View full profile →

Florence-Darlington Technical College

Florence, SC

Graduation27%

Earnings$32,748

Net Price$2,004

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Trident Technical College

Charleston, SC · 10,512 students · Public

With 10,512 students, Trident Technical College in Charleston, SC, serves as a key player in the local educational landscape. The college has a diverse array of programs that cater to various career paths, making it a solid option for those looking to jumpstart their professional journey.

29% graduate $38,253 earnings

Trident's full profile

Spartanburg Community College

Spartanburg, SC · 5,006 students · Public

Spartanburg Community College serves 5,006 students in Spartanburg, SC, and emphasizes accessibility and affordability in education. With a graduation rate of 29%, it encourages students to complete their degrees while offering various programs tailored to local job markets.

29% graduate $37,097 earnings

Spartanburg's full profile

Florence-Darlington Technical College

Florence, SC · 3,055 students · Public

Florence-Darlington Technical College, located in Florence, SC, is home to 3,055 students and focuses on hands-on learning experiences that equip students for the workforce. With a smaller campus environment, students often find a close-knit community that fosters strong relationships with faculty and peers alike.

27% graduate $32,748 earnings

Florence-Darlington's full profile

Midlands Technical College

West Columbia, SC · 7,564 students · Public

With over 7,500 students, Midlands Technical College in West Columbia, SC, is a vibrant community where you can pursue your academic goals without breaking the bank. The college has a diverse range of programs catering to various interests, making it a solid choice for those looking to enter the workforce quickly or continue their education at a four-year institution.

17% graduate $38,701 earnings

Midlands's full profile

Aiken Technical College

Graniteville, SC · 1,925 students · Public

Aiken Technical College, located in Graniteville, SC, is home to about 1,925 students who are committed to their education and career goals. The college is known for its supportive environment and strong emphasis on practical skills, which can lead to immediate job opportunities after graduation.

26% graduate $39,225 earnings

Horry-Georgetown Technical College

Conway, SC · 6,274 students · Public

Horry-Georgetown Technical College, located in Conway, SC, has a student body of 6,274 and prides itself on its commitment to student success. With a graduation rate of 32%, the college provides a solid foundation for those eager to enter the workforce or continue their education.

32% graduate $35,507 earnings

Horry-Georgetown's full profile

Central Carolina Technical College

Sumter, SC · 2,163 students · Public

Central Carolina Technical College in Sumter, SC, serves around 2,163 students, providing a solid foundation for those seeking career-focused education. With a graduation rate of 32%, many students are finding pathways to success, especially in technical fields that are in high demand.

32% graduate $32,603 earnings

Central's full profile

York Technical College

Rock Hill, SC · 3,816 students · Public

York Technical College, located in Rock Hill, SC, is a thriving institution with 3,816 students enrolled. With a focus on technical and vocational training, the college prepares its students for immediate employment in various skilled trades, which are crucial in today’s job market.

31% graduate $37,257 earnings

Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College

Orangeburg, SC · 1,539 students · Public

Located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, this technical college serves over 1,500 students and focuses on providing hands-on training in practical fields. With a graduation rate of 37%, students can expect a supportive environment aimed at helping them succeed in their chosen careers.

37% graduate $35,761 earnings

Orangeburg's full profile

#10

University of South Carolina-Sumter

Sumter, SC · 716 students · Public

The University of South Carolina-Sumter, with a student body of 716, offers a welcoming atmosphere for those looking to further their education. A graduation rate of 38% suggests that a significant number of students are finding their path to success, supported by the resources and community on campus.

74% accepted 38% graduate $42,437 earnings

University's full profile

#11

University of South Carolina-Union

Union, SC · 270 students · Public

Nestled in Union, South Carolina, this campus serves around 270 students and emphasizes a strong sense of community. With a graduation rate of 43%, students here are likely to find solid support on their educational journey, helping them navigate their studies and career aspirations.

62% accepted 43% graduate $33,699 earnings

University's full profile

#12

University of South Carolina-Salkehatchie

Allendale, SC · 271 students · Public

The University of South Carolina-Salkehatchie, located in Allendale, caters to around 271 students in a close-knit setting. With a graduation rate of just 25%, the college is focused on enhancing its support systems to better help students succeed and transition into the workforce.

76% accepted 25% graduate $31,360 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Francis Marion University

Florence, SC · 2,628 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 86%, Francis Marion University welcomes a wide range of students to its Florence, SC campus. The university has a strong focus on community engagement and offers a variety of programs designed to connect students with local industries and opportunities.

86% accepted 43% graduate $43,888 earnings

Francis's full profile

#14

University of South Carolina Aiken

Aiken, SC · 2,962 students · Public

Located in Aiken, SC, the University of South Carolina Aiken serves a vibrant student body of nearly 3,000. The school emphasizes hands-on learning and has a welcoming campus atmosphere, making it a good fit for students looking for a supportive environment.

79% accepted 40% graduate $45,603 earnings

University's full profile

#15

Northeastern Technical College

Cheraw, SC · 921 students · Public

Northeastern Technical College, nestled in Cheraw, SC, focuses on equipping students with practical skills for the workforce. With a smaller student population of 921, it fosters a close-knit community where personalized attention is a priority.

29% graduate $32,141 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#16

University of South Carolina-Lancaster

Lancaster, SC · 668 students · Public

The University of South Carolina-Lancaster presents a unique atmosphere for students in a smaller setting, with around 668 students enrolled. It emphasizes a personalized education experience, which can be beneficial for individuals seeking more direct interaction with faculty and peers.

83% accepted 27% graduate $39,426 earnings

University's full profile

#17

Piedmont Technical College

Greenwood, SC · 3,977 students · Public

Located in Greenwood, South Carolina, Piedmont Technical College serves nearly 4,000 students, focusing on practical training and workforce readiness. With 52% of its students receiving Pell Grants, the college is committed to making education accessible for those who need it most.

33% graduate $35,768 earnings

Piedmont's full profile

#18

Coastal Carolina University

Conway, SC · 10,377 students · Public

Coastal Carolina University, located in Conway, South Carolina, is home to over 10,000 students and offers a vibrant campus life. With a 75% acceptance rate, it welcomes a wide range of students, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

75% accepted 50% graduate $47,258 earnings

Coastal's full profile

#19

University of South Carolina-Upstate

Spartanburg, SC · 4,038 students · Public

In Spartanburg, the University of South Carolina-Upstate attracts over 4,000 students with a diverse range of programs. The campus is welcoming and has a 67% acceptance rate, inviting students from various backgrounds to pursue higher education.

67% accepted 43% graduate $48,587 earnings

University's full profile

#20

Greenville Technical College

Greenville, SC · 8,916 students · Public

With nearly 9,000 students, Greenville Technical College is focused on providing accessible education and workforce development in the heart of South Carolina. The college emphasizes practical skills and career readiness, appealing to those looking for a direct path into the workforce without the long-term commitment of a four-year degree.

19% graduate $39,473 earnings

Greenville's full profile

#21

Winthrop University

Rock Hill, SC · 3,523 students · Public

Located in Rock Hill, Winthrop University is home to about 3,500 students and is known for its vibrant campus life and diverse academic offerings. With a graduation rate of 59%, the university fosters an environment that encourages student success and engagement, making it a solid choice for those looking for a well-rounded college experience.

79% accepted 59% graduate $47,185 earnings

Winthrop's full profile

#22

Williamsburg Technical College

Kingstree, SC · 448 students · Public

Williamsburg Technical College is a smaller institution in Kingstree, South Carolina, with around 448 students focusing on practical skills and community engagement. The college's commitment to accessibility is evident, with 42% of its students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its role in serving local populations.

18% graduate $29,935 earnings

Williamsburg's full profile

#23

Lander University

Greenwood, SC · 3,397 students · Public

Lander University, situated in Greenwood, caters to approximately 3,400 students and emphasizes personalized education and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 49%, it provides an intimate learning environment that helps students build strong relationships with faculty and peers, ideal for those looking for support on their academic journey.

81% accepted 49% graduate $42,396 earnings

Lander's full profile

#24

Southern Wesleyan University

Central, SC · 747 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 100%, Southern Wesleyan University in Central, SC, invites students from all walks of life. The small campus, home to about 747 students, emphasizes a close-knit community and personalized education, aiming to foster both academic and personal growth among its students.

100% accepted 52% graduate $47,756 earnings

Southern's full profile

#25

Voorhees University

Denmark, SC · 440 students · Private nonprofit

Voorhees University, a private nonprofit institution, serves a tight-knit community of around 440 students. The school emphasizes a holistic education, with a mission to uplift students through a blend of academic and personal development, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a supportive environment.

40% graduate $35,339 earnings

Voorhees's full profile

#26

University of South Carolina Beaufort

Bluffton, SC · 2,052 students · Public

Situated in Bluffton, SC, the University of South Carolina Beaufort has a vibrant campus with approximately 2,052 students. While its graduation rate is 36%, the university is committed to helping students succeed with a supportive environment that encourages academic achievement and community involvement.

73% accepted 36% graduate $48,088 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Tri-County Technical College

Pendleton, SC · 5,071 students · Public

Tri-County Technical College in Pendleton, SC, serves over 5,000 students, offering a variety of programs that cater to diverse career paths. With a graduation rate of 41%, the college is committed to providing practical education that equips students with the skills needed for the workforce in a supportive atmosphere.

41% graduate $40,101 earnings

Tri-County's full profile

#28

Erskine College

Due West, SC · 766 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Due West, SC, Erskine College has a close community of around 766 students and a graduation rate of 47%. The college emphasizes a strong liberal arts education and a commitment to developing well-rounded individuals prepared for various career paths or further studies.

63% accepted 47% graduate $53,459 earnings

Erskine's full profile

#29

Spartanburg Methodist College

Spartanburg, SC · 1,116 students · Private nonprofit

With an acceptance rate of 78%, Spartanburg Methodist College welcomes a diverse group of students looking for a supportive environment. The college's small size, with around 1,116 students, fosters close-knit relationships among peers and faculty, which can enhance the learning experience significantly.

78% accepted 41% graduate $42,895 earnings

Spartanburg's full profile

#30

South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC · 2,934 students · Public

Located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, South Carolina State University is a public institution that opens its doors to approximately 2,934 students. Though the graduation rate is lower at 33%, the university offers a unique environment for students ready to thrive in a larger, more traditional college setting.

83% accepted 33% graduate $38,262 earnings

Claflin University

Orangeburg, SC · 1,706 students · Private nonprofit

Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, captures the attention of many prospective students with its graduation rate of 50%. With around 1,706 students, it offers a tight-knit community that can be beneficial for those looking for personalized support during their college journey.

65% accepted 50% graduate $40,304 earnings

Claflin's full profile

#32

Bob Jones University

Greenville, SC · 2,005 students · Private nonprofit

Bob Jones University, with a strong graduation rate of 67%, serves around 2,005 students in Greenville, South Carolina. The university emphasizes a unique educational philosophy that many students find compelling, particularly those who appreciate a faith-based approach to higher education.

67% graduate $44,354 earnings

College of Charleston

Charleston, SC · 10,558 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in historic Charleston, the College of Charleston attracts students looking for an engaging academic and social environment. The school's focus on liberal arts education fosters critical thinking and cultural awareness, essential skills in today's job market.

60% accepted 65% graduate $56,416 earnings

College's full profile

#34

Wofford College

Spartanburg, SC · 1,816 students · Private nonprofit

Wofford College, nestled in Spartanburg, offers a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on the liberal arts. Its 82% graduation rate reflects a commitment to student success, encouraging a collaborative atmosphere where peers support each other academically and personally.

52% accepted 82% graduate $68,964 earnings

Wofford's full profile

#35

Benedict College

Columbia, SC · 1,536 students · Private nonprofit

Benedict College in Columbia offers a welcoming environment focused on diversity and inclusion. However, it faces challenges, reflected in its 23% graduation rate, which indicates that many students may struggle to complete their degrees. Still, the college is committed to supporting its students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

96% accepted 23% graduate $31,902 earnings

Benedict's full profile

#36

Columbia College

Columbia, SC · 1,343 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia College, a smaller institution in Columbia, offers a unique environment focused on women's education and leadership development. With a 45% graduation rate, the college works to empower students, especially those who thrive in a tight-knit community.

94% accepted 45% graduate $41,338 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#37

Coker University

Hartsville, SC · 840 students · Private nonprofit

Coker University, located in Hartsville, SC, is home to about 840 students who enjoy a close-knit community. With a generous acceptance rate of 94%, this school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can find their place.

94% accepted 38% graduate $40,117 earnings

Presbyterian College

Clinton, SC · 852 students · Private nonprofit

In Clinton, SC, Presbyterian College stands out with a graduation rate of 56% and a strong focus on liberal arts education. The college nurtures a rigorous academic environment, helping students not just learn but thrive as they prepare for future careers.

68% accepted 56% graduate $60,194 earnings

Presbyterian's full profile

#39

North Greenville University

Tigerville, SC · 1,819 students · Private nonprofit

North Greenville University, located in Tigerville, SC, serves a vibrant community of around 1,819 students. With a graduation rate of 55%, the university emphasizes a supportive environment that helps students reach their academic goals while also growing personally and socially.

67% accepted 55% graduate $43,035 earnings

Citadel Military College of South Carolina

Charleston, SC · 2,705 students · Public

Citadel Military College in Charleston, SC, is known for its rigorous military training combined with a solid academic framework, attracting about 2,705 students. With a graduation rate of 74%, students often find themselves well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue higher education after their time at Citadel.

23% accepted 74% graduate $72,085 earnings

Citadel's full profile

#41

Clemson University

Clemson, SC · 23,300 students · Public

Clemson University is known for its spirited campus life and strong academic programs, housing over 23,000 students who thrive in a dynamic community. With an impressive graduation rate of 87%, it indicates a commitment to student success, and graduates enjoy median earnings of $71,513 after ten years, reflecting the value of a Clemson degree in the job market.

38% accepted 87% graduate $71,513 earnings

Clemson's full profile

#42

Newberry College

Newberry, SC · 1,479 students · Private nonprofit

Newberry College, located in the scenic town of Newberry, South Carolina, has a welcoming atmosphere, especially for students who appreciate smaller, close-knit environments. With a 90% acceptance rate, it’s an accessible option for many, and its graduates see median earnings of $48,040 after ten years, suggesting that a degree here can lead to solid job opportunities.

90% accepted 45% graduate $48,040 earnings

Newberry's full profile

#43

Charleston Southern University

Charleston, SC · 2,893 students · Private nonprofit

Charleston Southern University welcomes nearly 3,000 students to its vibrant campus, where a strong sense of community encourages personal and academic growth. The median earnings for graduates after ten years sit at $45,898, indicating that students can find promising career paths after they leave campus, even as the graduation rate hovers around 48%.

96% accepted 48% graduate $45,898 earnings

Charleston's full profile

#44

Morris College

Sumter, SC · 383 students · Private nonprofit

Morris College, though smaller with around 383 students, offers a unique environment that fosters individual attention and support. However, it’s important to note that only 19% of students graduate, which may be a significant factor for those considering long-term success in their educational journey.

19% graduate $30,614 earnings

Morris's full profile

#45

Converse University

Spartanburg, SC · 1,173 students · Private nonprofit

Converse University is a small, private nonprofit institution known for its close-knit community and personalized education experience, with just 1,173 students. Despite a graduation rate of 54%, many students benefit from the intimate classroom settings and dedicated faculty who are committed to student success.

68% accepted 54% graduate $40,867 earnings

Converse's full profile

#46

University of South Carolina-Columbia

Columbia, SC · 29,820 students · Public

With nearly 30,000 students, the University of South Carolina-Columbia is a vibrant public university that offers a diverse range of programs. Its graduation rate stands at 78%, reflecting a supportive environment that helps students succeed academically and socially.

60% accepted 78% graduate $62,177 earnings

University's full profile

#47

Anderson University

Anderson, SC · 3,183 students · Private nonprofit

Anderson University, with 3,183 students, offers a supportive environment that encourages academic and personal growth. A graduation rate of 67% suggests that many students find their footing and succeed in their studies, bolstered by a strong sense of community and faith-based values that permeate campus life.

55% accepted 67% graduate $42,101 earnings

Anderson's full profile

#48

Columbia International University

Columbia, SC · 716 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia International University, a smaller private nonprofit with just 716 students, emphasizes a Christian-centered education in a close community setting. The graduation rate sits at 55%, which reflects the unique challenges and commitments of its students as they pursue both academic and spiritual growth.

94% accepted 55% graduate $38,951 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#49

Furman University

Greenville, SC · 2,379 students · Private nonprofit

Furman University in Greenville, SC, is home to a vibrant community of 2,379 students, fostering an environment where 80% of students graduate. With a median earning of $68,635 ten years after graduation, Furman emphasizes not just academic excellence, but also real-world success. The university’s picturesque campus and commitment to liberal arts education attract students looking for a well-rounded college experience.

43% accepted 80% graduate $68,635 earnings

Furman's full profile

A closer look reveals that while Trident Technical College offers a low net price of $1,406 and better earning potential for graduates at $38,253, Spartanburg Community College, despite having a slightly higher average earnings of $37,097, incurs a higher net price of $2,405. This difference might seem minor, but over time, choosing the more affordable school can lead to significant savings and less debt.

As you consider your options, think about what matters most to you. Are you prioritizing a specific program, campus culture, or proximity to home? Compare the net prices and graduation rates alongside what you want in a college experience. This approach will help you find the right fit without sacrificing your financial future.

Ultimately, these decisions impact more than just your college years. Graduates from these affordable colleges can expect to earn a decent living, with average earnings around $43,668. Choosing wisely now can pave the way for a stable life later. One decision can shape your future in a significant way—make sure it aligns with your personal and financial goals.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility