How Much You Actually Need to Earn to Buy in Mount Pleasant (2025 Breakdown)By Brandon Bott — Mount Pleasant Realtor Since 2012

Dec 3

Mount Pleasant continues to be one of the most desirable suburbs on the East Coast. With top-rated schools, year-round coastal living, and some of the strongest appreciation in the Charleston metro, it’s no surprise demand remains high.

But what does it really take to afford a home here in 2025?

Here’s the full income breakdown based on today’s prices, interest rates, taxes, HOA fees, and insurance.

🏡 1. Mount Pleasant Home Prices (2025)

A quick snapshot of what buyers can expect:

Entry-level single-family: $650K–$750K
Average Mount Pleasant home: $800K–$1.1M
North Mt. Pleasant (Dunes West, Carolina Park): $900K–$1.3M
Luxury/waterfront: $2M–$5M+

💰 2. What You Need to Earn for Each Price Point

These estimates assume:

20% down
6.5–7% interest rate
Standard taxes & insurance
Standard debt levels

$650,000 Home

Monthly payment: ~$4,100
Household income needed: ~$145,000–$165,000

$850,000 Home

Monthly payment: ~$5,300
Household income needed: ~$185,000–$215,000

$1,000,000 Home

Monthly payment: ~$6,100
Household income needed: ~$215,000–$250,000

$1,300,000 Home

Monthly payment: ~$7,700
Household income needed: ~$270,000–$315,000

$2,000,000 Home

Monthly payment: ~$11,800
Household income needed: ~$400,000+

🧮 3. Why Property Taxes Help Here

South Carolina has very low property taxes.

Example:
A $1M home in Mount Pleasant often carries taxes of just $3,000–$4,500/year.

This keeps monthly costs lower than cities with higher taxes, even if their home prices are similar.

🛡️ 4. Insurance Considerations

Roof age, elevation, and proximity to the water matter.

Typical homeowners insurance:

$2,800–$4,500/year for most homes
Flood insurance: $0–$1,200/year (many homes do NOT require it)

📉 5. What About Waiting for Rates to Drop?

If rates drop:

Prices will rise
Buyer competition increases
Affordability may not improve

Historically, waiting costs buyers in Mt. Pleasant more than it helps.

🏁 Bottom Line

Mount Pleasant is expensive — but offers the strongest combination of lifestyle, schools, appreciation, safety, and amenities in the Charleston metro.

If you’re planning a move here, knowing your target price and income range upfront is key.

📞 Want a custom affordability breakdown for your situation?

I can run your numbers, match you to the right neighborhood, and help you explore real options.
Call or text me at 843-754-9737.

Brandon Bott