Side-by-side comparison of mortgage costs, property taxes, closing costs, and homeowners insurance between South Carolina and Wisconsin. Updated for 2026.
Wisconsin wins 4 of 6 cost categories, making it the more affordable state for homebuyers overall. With a median home price of $280K and lower overall costs, Wisconsin offers meaningful savings compared to South Carolina. Both states offer first-time buyer programs — explore the state pages for full details.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI.
Buying in South Carolina saves you approximately $6/month ($72/year) compared to Wisconsin, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Home prices in South Carolina and Wisconsin are relatively close, with only a 8% difference ($25K). At similar price points, your decision should focus on the other cost factors: property taxes, insurance, closing costs, and the overall quality of life each state offers. Small percentage differences in tax rates compound over decades of homeownership.
Property taxes are dramatically different: South Carolina charges 0.57% while Wisconsin charges 1.76%, a gap of 1.19 percentage points. On the respective median homes, this means Wisconsin homeowners pay roughly $4,928 per year in property taxes versus $1,738 in South Carolina. Over 30 years of homeownership, this difference alone can add up to six figures. Retirees on fixed incomes should weigh this heavily.
Insurance costs favor Wisconsin at $1,300/year versus $2,600/year in South Carolina, a difference of $1,300 annually. While not the largest cost factor, this adds up to over $13K over a decade of homeownership. Shop multiple carriers in either state — actual premiums depend on your specific property, coverage level, and claims history.
Both states offer down payment assistance for first-time buyers. South Carolina's SC Housing Palmetto Home provides Up to $8,000 forgivable, while Wisconsin's WHEDA First-Time Advantage offers Up to $3,050 Easy Close grant. These programs can significantly reduce your upfront costs and make homeownership accessible even if you haven't saved a full 20% down payment. Check eligibility requirements on each state's housing finance agency website — income limits and purchase price caps apply.
The bottom line: property taxes are the defining difference here. Wisconsin's 1.76% rate versus South Carolina's 0.57% means South Carolina homeowners save approximately $3,190 every year on taxes alone. Over a 30-year mortgage, that difference compounds into tens of thousands of dollars — making it the most important cost factor in this comparison.