Let the numbers do the talking.
Hilton Head Island, SC vs Sumter, SC
Hilton Head Island, SC vs Sumter, SC: What the data shows
Hilton Head Island, SC is in Hilton Head Island, SC while Sumter, SC is in Sumter, SC — both in the same state. On home prices, Sumter, SC is the more affordable option at $140,700 median — $573,000 less than Hilton Head Island, SC's $713,700. WYLT rates Hilton Head Island, SC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Sumter, SC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Hilton Head Island, SC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hilton Head Island, SC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Sumter, SC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hilton Head Island, SC has Low flood risk and Sumter, SC has Low flood risk.
Sumter, SC is the more walkable neighborhood. Hilton Head Island, SC scores N/A/100 versus Sumter, SC's 7/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Sumter, SC has the higher school rating — Hilton Head Island, SC rates 8/10 and Sumter, SC rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Hilton Head Island, SC | Sumter, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $714K | $141K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $892 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $95K ✓ Higher income | $46K |
| Price Volatility | High | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 7/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | RetireesBeach loversRemote workers | Families with kidsFirst‑time homebuyersRenters seeking affordable options |
Bottom line
If you're looking for a quiet, coastal lifestyle and are willing to pay a premium, Hilton Head Island might be suitable for you, especially if you have a good income and value the beach location. However, for those prioritizing affordability, walkability, or convenience, Sumter, SC, offers a better value with its low cost of living and relatively decent schools. Ultimately, Hilton Head is a niche choice, while Sumter is a more run-of-the-mill suburban option.
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