Mortgage Rates in Chester, South Carolina — April 2026
Updated April 2026 | Based on Chester market data and regional lending conditions
Chester is a smaller South Carolina community of 5,307 where home prices remain well below the national median, making homeownership more attainable. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.61% (0.52% above the national average). At a median home price of $189,000, the estimated $1,050/month payment (with 20% down) is affordable on the local median income of $49,100.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Chester, SC, the current 30-year rate is 6.61%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.88% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.43%) and VA loans (6.18%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Chester, SC
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Chester area as of April 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.61% | 6.09% | +0.52% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.88% | 5.58% | +0.3% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.17% | 5.95% | +0.22% |
| FHA | 6.43% | 5.85% | +0.58% |
| VA | 6.18% | 5.65% | +0.53% |
| Jumbo | 6.86% | 6.25% | +0.61% |
Chester Housing Market Overview
At $189,000, Chester offers more affordable housing than most U.S. metros. The local cost of living index is 87.7 (100 = national average), and the median household income of $49,100 provides comfortable purchasing power in this market.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Chester
Based on the median home price of $189,000 with 20% down ($37,800), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Chester:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Chester
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Chester at 5.88% instead of a 30-year at 6.61% would save you $120,240 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $1,266 instead of $967 — an increase of $299 per month.
Calculate Your Chester Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Chester
What are the current mortgage rates in Chester, SC?
As of April 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Chester, South Carolina is 6.61%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.88%. FHA loans average 6.43% and VA loans 6.18%. These rates are 0.52% above the national average of 6.09%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Chester?
Based on the median home price of $189,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Chester is $967 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $83/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $1,050.
What income do I need to buy a home in Chester?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $45,000 to afford the median-priced home in Chester at $189,000. The median household income in Chester is $49,100. The median income is currently sufficient to meet this threshold.
Is Chester a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Chester offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 87.7 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in South Carolina is 0.53%, which is below the national average. Chester has a population of 5,307 and offers a very affordable lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other South Carolina Cities
Related Tools & Guides
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for South Carolina regional spread.
- Median home price: $189,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 0.53% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $49,100 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: April 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Chester, South Carolina area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.