Union, United States🏛️ Capital City
📊 Scores
With a population of just 8,174, Union is a sleepy, slow-paced town that will appeal to those seeking a quiet, inexpensive slice of the Carolinas. However, the city's median household income of $26,110 and poverty rate of 20.8% are stark reminders that economic opportunities are limited. And while the climate is warm, the occasional extreme temperature swing - from 110°F to -11°F - can be a persistent headache.
Overall, Union is a place for those content with a simple, affordable life in the rural South, but it offers little in the way of career prospects or cultural vibrancy.
🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
Grocery Basket
Eating Out
Utilities & Lifestyle
Housing
💰 Real Spend Reports
🛡️ Safety & Crime
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Union is a quiet, small South Carolina town where daily life feels safe and predictable. Walking during daylight is unremarkable; most residents know each other. Nighttime walkability is limited not by danger but by the rural character—few people are out after dark, and street lighting is sparse. For an American accustomed to small-town life, the safety perception matches reality: this is genuinely a low-crime area with minimal street crime or organized activity.
Property crime (theft from vehicles, burglary) poses the main risk in rural areas like Union, particularly in isolated properties. Violent crime is rare. Petty theft and scams are uncommon. Solo female travelers face no elevated risk beyond standard rural precautions. The primary concern is opportunistic crime targeting unattended belongings or unsecured homes—typical of rural America rather than a specific Union problem.
Union presents no geopolitical risks or political instability. Local law enforcement is responsive and reliable. The town's main challenges are economic stagnation and limited services rather than safety concerns. For an American considering relocation, Union is genuinely safe—suitable for retirees or remote workers seeking a stable, affordable small-town environment. The trade-off is isolation and limited amenities, not security.
🏥 Healthcare
🌤️ Climate
Best Months
Climate Notes
Union experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, muggy summers (June-August) and mild winters, offering four distinct seasons with moderate rainfall year-round.
💻 Digital Nomad
Community Notes
| Name | Price/mo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regus - Union | $200 | Located in the Union West Plaza, this Regus location offers a professional environment with private offices and coworking spaces. It's a reliable option for expats seeking a standard office experience with amenities like meeting rooms and business support services. |
| The City Hub | $150 | Located in downtown Union, The City Hub offers a community-focused coworking environment. It's a good option for those seeking a more local and collaborative atmosphere, with flexible workspace options and networking opportunities. |
🧳 Expat Life
Could living/working in Union cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $340/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.