Is It Expensive to Live in Tega Cay, South Carolina?

Tega Cay, South Carolina, is a growing lakeside community known for its high quality of life and scenic views. But how much does it really cost to live here? Let’s dive into housing, cost of living, public education, and lifestyle to give you a clearer picture.

How Does Tega Cay’s Population Compare to Nearby Towns?

Let’s start by exploring how many people are calling Tega Cay home. As of July 1, 2023, Tega Cay had a population of 14,057, making it much smaller than neighboring Fort Mill, which has 33,626 residents. Despite its smaller size, Tega Cay is a community-focused city on the rise, with significant new developments underway. Main Street Developers presented updates at the November 18, 2024 City Council meeting. You can view the presentation here. Tega City Hall has posted the latest updates under the Active Developments section of their website.

Lakefront homes on Lake Wylie viewed from Windjammer Park.

(source:https://www.census.gov/)

What Are the Median Home Prices in Tega Cay?

Tega Cay is known for its attractive housing market and lakefront homes on Lake Wylie. The median value of owner-occupied homes between 2019 and 2023 was $494,500. This places it above the South Carolina state average, reflecting the city’s desirability and strong community appeal. With ongoing developments, there are opportunities to find modern homes that suit a variety of needs.

(source:https://www.census.gov/)

What Is the Cost of Living in Tega Cay?

Tega Cay has a BestPlaces Cost of Living score of 100.4, slightly above the U.S. average and 12.4% higher than South Carolina's average. Families need an estimated annual income of $100,440 to live comfortably, while single individuals can manage on $54,400. Despite the higher-than-average costs, many residents find the amenities and lifestyle worth the investment.

(source:https://www.bestplaces.net/)

Is Tega Cay a Good Place for Remote Workers?

If you work remotely, Tega Cay is a great option, with 96.8% of households having access to a computer (2019–2023). However, reliable internet has been a common challenge. The city is addressing this issue with the rollout of Google Fiber, making Tega Cay the first Google Fiber City in South Carolina. This upgrade promises faster, more reliable internet for residents, especially for gamers and remote professionals needing quality internet in Tega Cay.

What’s the Commute from Tega Cay to Uptown Charlotte?

Many families choose to move to Tega Cay for its active, outdoor-focused lifestyle while still enjoying the convenience of commuting to major employment hubs like Uptown Charlotte, South End, and Ballantyne. Tega Cay is located just 20 miles from Uptown Charlotte, making it an easy 30–40 minute drive during typical traffic conditions. South End and Ballantyne are even closer, offering commutes of around 25–30 minutes.

This proximity allows residents to take advantage of Tega Cay’s communal lifestyle and lakefront activities while working in some of Charlotte’s busiest business districts. Whether you’re working a hybrid schedule or commuting daily, Tega Cay offers the perfect balance of relaxation and accessibility.

Does Tega Cay have Good Public Schools?

One of Tega Cay’s standout features is its excellent public schools. Tega Cay Elementary ranks #29 among South Carolina elementary schools, while Fort Mill High School in the neighboring town ranks #7 in the state and #1,041 nationally, according to US News & World Report. For families, this means access to high-quality education without the need for private school tuition.

(source:https://www.usnews.com/)

What to do for Free in Tega Cay?

Tega Cay offers a lifestyle rich in outdoor and community-focused activities. Residents enjoy access to numerous parks, trails and lakefront recreational activities. Some parks require permits for parking, so be sure to plan ahead if you would like to visit. Learn more about permit requirements in our guide here. For those looking for an active group, Tega Cay Run Club @tegacayrunclub is a great free option for fitness and socialization.

One of the perks of Living in Tega Cay are the numerous holiday events the city puts on. In 2024, we enjoyed the Forth of July festivities put on by the city which included a ski show, land parade, boat parade, fish fry, concert, and fireworks. Admission was free!

Looking to give back? Service Saturdays are a heartwarming initiative in Tega Cay, bringing together City government, volunteers, local businesses, and organizations to support residents in need. These community-focused projects aim to lend a helping hand to neighbors who face physical or financial challenges, making it difficult to maintain the exterior and yard areas of their homes. Check out Tega Cay City Council’s nominee form to read more about this program.

Is Living in Tega Cay Worth the Cost?

While Tega Cay’s cost of living is slightly above average, the town’s exceptional quality of life, education system, free community events and recreational amenities make it a worthwhile investment for many. Whether you’re drawn to its scenic parks, thriving community, or future-forward infrastructure, Tega Cay offers a balanced lifestyle that appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike.

For more insights into Tega Cay, including tips on parks and amenities, check out our blog here.