The South Carolina HOA percentage ranks ninth nationwide, according to new data from the American Community Survey. The report shows that one in four U.S. households pays HOA or condo fees, with South Carolina above average. While the state’s percentage is high, its monthly average fee is relatively modest compared to many others.
South Carolina HOA Percentage and National Rankings
According to new data from the American Community Survey, the South Carolina HOA percentage is 34.4%, placing it ninth among states with the highest share of fee-paying households. The national average is 25%. The survey included both HOA and condo fees since both involve community management and shared services.
Here are the top 10 states with the highest percentage of households paying HOA or condo fees:
- Nevada: 51.3%
- Arizona: 44.7%
- Florida: 44.3%
- Colorado: 42.4%
- Hawaii: 42%
- Delaware: 40.5%
- District of Columbia: 38.6%
- Maryland: 37.7%
- South Carolina: 34.4%
- Texas: 34.3%
States with the lowest percentages include Maine, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, each ranging between 7.7% and 10.5%.
Monthly Fees Across States
The survey also reviewed average monthly costs. About 26% of U.S. households pay under $50 monthly, while nearly 3 million pay over $500. New York tops the list with an average fee of $739.
South Carolina ranked 29th for monthly averages, with residents paying about $94. The national median monthly fee is $135.
These are the top 10 states with the highest monthly averages:
- New York: $739
- District of Columbia: $505
- Hawaii: $470
- Massachusetts: $376
- Connecticut: $351
- New Hampshire: $316
- Rhode Island: $314
- New Jersey: $300
- California: $278
- Minnesota: $269
Arkansas had the lowest average fee at $47.
Community Associations in South Carolina
A 2023 study found there are around 7,400 HOA and condo associations in South Carolina. These include well-known communities like Sea Pines in Hilton Head and Briarcliffe Acres in Horry County.
The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs tracks complaints against HOAs and issues an annual report. The most common complaints involve:
- Failure to enforce covenants and bylaws
- Maintenance and repair issues
- Disagreements over fees or special assessments
Complaints were filed in 28 of 46 counties. The counties with the highest numbers included:
- Horry: 117 complaints
- Richland: 58 complaints
- Charleston: 34 complaints
- Greenville: 31 complaints
- Beaufort: 24 complaints
The American Community Survey, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, has been gathering data since 2005. It collects information on housing, social, and economic conditions across the country. This data helps plan infrastructure, emergency services, schools, and guide government funding decisions.
