South Carolina Per Diem Rates (FY2026)
South Carolina has 4 GSA non-standard per diem areas for FY2026. Everywhere else uses the standard $178/day rate ($110 lodging + $68 M&IE). The most expensive is Charleston — up to $288/night lodging in March plus $92/day M&IE.
| Area | M&IE / day | Lodging / night | Peak month |
|---|---|---|---|
| CharlestonCharleston / Berkeley / Dorchester | $92 | $218–$288 | Mar |
| ColumbiaRichland / Lexington | $74 | $115 | flat |
| Hilton HeadBeaufort | $80 | $118–$215 | Jun |
| Myrtle BeachHorry | $74 | $110–$182 | Jun |
| All other South Carolina locationsstandard rate | $68 | $110 | flat |
Estimated trip cost
A 4-night business trip to Charleston — South Carolina's most expensive per diem area — in March totals $1,566: $1,152 lodging (4 nights) + $414 M&IE (5 days, first & last day at 75%). Charleston month-by-month rates →
Book within the South Carolina lodging cap
Otto finds hotels at or under the GSA lodging cap for your South Carolina destination — $110/night at the standard rate, higher in the 4 listed areas — and books them for you.
South Carolina per diem FAQ
- What is the per diem rate in South Carolina?
- South Carolina has 4 GSA non-standard per diem areas with their own rates for FY2026. Everywhere else in South Carolina uses the standard CONUS rate of $178 per day: $110 for lodging plus $68 for meals & incidental expenses (M&IE).
- What is the meal reimbursement (M&IE) rate in South Carolina?
- Meal reimbursement in South Carolina ranges from $68 to $92 per day for FY2026, depending on the area. The first and last day of travel reimburse at 75% of the daily M&IE rate.