Where to Find Affordable Shoes in South Carolina

South Carolina shoe stores that sell discounted and budget-friendly footwear

Affordable shoes in South Carolina come from a mix of outlet stores, discount chains, and clearance sections at major retailers. Payless, DSW, Shoe Carnival, and Famous Footwear all operate locations across the state and regularly mark down inventory. Department stores like Walmart, Target, and Kohl's carry budget shoe lines alongside their regular stock. Thrift stores and consignment shops in larger cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville also stock used shoes at steep discounts.

The best time to find bargains is during seasonal clearance events—typically January, July, and after-holiday sales in February. Many stores also run weekly promotions on specific brands or categories. Online retailers like Amazon, Zappos, and Overstock ship to South Carolina and often have lower prices than brick-and-mortar locations, though you lose the chance to try shoes on before buying.

Key Takeaways

• Discount shoe chains like Payless, Shoe Carnival, and Famous Footwear have multiple locations across South Carolina and offer everyday low prices.
• Department stores including Walmart, Target, and Kohl's sell budget shoe brands in their shoe sections, often with weekly sales.
• Clearance racks at full-price retailers like DSW and Dillard's can yield significant savings on last season's styles.
• Thrift stores and consignment shops in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville carry used shoes at a fraction of retail cost.
• January, July, and post-holiday sales offer the deepest discounts, though inventory varies by location and timing.

Discount shoe chains with South Carolina locations

Payless closed most U.S. stores in 2019, but some independent franchises still operate in South Carolina—check online or call ahead before visiting. Shoe Carnival has locations in Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville, with prices typically $30 to $60 per pair. Famous Footwear operates in malls and shopping centers statewide and carries brands like Skechers, New Balance, and Fila at discounts of 20 to 40 percent off regular retail.

DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse) has stores in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. While it sells full-price designer shoes, the clearance section often has steep markdowns, and the store runs frequent sales on specific brands. Sign up for their rewards program to receive additional discounts and early notice of sales.

Department stores and big-box retailers with shoe sections

Walmart and Target are found in nearly every South Carolina town and carry their own budget shoe brands—George at Walmart and Cat & Jack at Target—priced between $15 and $35. Both stores mark down shoes regularly, especially at the end of seasons. Kohl's locations across the state sell brands like Skechers, Crocs, and Clarks at everyday discounts, and Kohl's Cash rewards can lower prices further.

Dillard's has locations in major malls and runs aggressive clearance sales, particularly in January and July. The clearance racks often contain shoes from well-known brands at 50 to 70 percent off. Bealls, a Florida-based chain with stores throughout South Carolina, also stocks affordable shoes and runs frequent promotions.

Thrift stores and consignment shops

Charleston's Goodwill locations and independent thrift stores like Salvation Army carry used shoes for $2 to $8 per pair. Quality varies, but you can find brand-name shoes in good condition if you browse regularly. Plato's Closet, a consignment chain with locations in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, specializes in gently used shoes and clothing from younger shoppers, with prices typically $5 to $20.

Local consignment shops in downtown Charleston, Five Points in Columbia, and the Greenville downtown area often carry higher-end used shoes at 30 to 50 percent below retail. Call ahead to ask about their current inventory or visit in person to see what's available. Consignment shops rotate stock frequently, so visiting multiple times increases your chances of finding what you need.

Online retailers that ship to South Carolina

Amazon carries millions of shoe styles with prices often lower than retail stores, and Prime members get free two-day shipping. Zappos specializes in shoes and offers free shipping and returns, making it easy to order multiple sizes and send back what doesn't fit. Overstock runs frequent sales on shoes and clearance items, sometimes offering additional discounts for first-time buyers.

Shein and ASOS sell trendy, budget shoes starting around $15, though quality and sizing can be inconsistent. Wish offers extremely low prices but has long shipping times and variable quality. Read customer reviews carefully before ordering from unfamiliar online retailers, and check return policies in case shoes don't fit or arrive damaged.

Timing your purchase for the best prices

Seasonal sales happen predictably: January clearance clears out winter inventory, July sales make room for fall stock, and post-holiday sales in February offer deals on remaining holiday shoes. Black Friday and Cyber Monday in November bring discounts across all retailers. Back-to-school sales in August often include children's and teen shoes at reduced prices.

Many stores also run weekly sales on specific brands or shoe types—check store websites or sign up for email newsletters to learn about upcoming promotions. Clearance racks are typically located at the back of shoe sections and are refreshed as new items arrive. Visiting stores mid-week often means less crowded racks and better selection of remaining sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between outlet stores and discount stores?

Outlet stores sell overstock and last-season items from brand-name retailers, while discount chains like Shoe Carnival buy shoes specifically made for budget pricing. Outlets often have better quality but less selection. Discount chains have more variety but may not carry premium brands.

Are online shoe prices really cheaper than stores?

Often yes, especially on clearance items and during sales. However, you pay for shipping unless you may have access to for free shipping, and you can't try shoes on before buying. Compare total cost including shipping before ordering, and check return policies in case sizing doesn't work out.

Do thrift stores have new shoes or only used?

Mostly used, though occasionally you'll find new shoes with tags still attached. Goodwill and Salvation Army locations receive donations constantly, so inventory changes daily. Consignment shops like Plato's Closet focus on gently used items in good condition rather than heavily worn shoes.

Can I return shoes bought on clearance?

Return policies vary by store. Most retailers allow returns on clearance shoes within 30 to 60 days with a receipt, but some mark clearance items as final sale. Check the receipt or ask at checkout before leaving the store.

Where can I find shoes for specific activities like running or work?

DSW and Famous Footwear carry athletic and work shoes at discounts. Walmart and Target stock basic athletic shoes cheaply. For specialized running shoes, check Dick's Sporting Goods clearance sections or online retailers like Amazon and Zappos, which have wider selections than most physical stores.