UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
#10. Greenville
Greenville, S.C. voters identify themselves as a bit more liberal than the normal American—though interestingly, Romney also beat out Obama here by the largest margin of all the moderate cities, 63 to 35.2 percent. Yet local leadership is currently run by Mayor Knox H. White, a Republican. Locals, then, are ruled by no extreme, but instead vote with what best suits each situation.
Why Greenville Is One of the Best Places to Live in America
Greenville is in the 4th Congressional District, and Trey Gowdy—a Republican and a Tea Party member—represents the region. While he is considered a tried and true Republican, GovTrack actually rates him as falling in the middle of the conservative spectrum for Republicans. Moreover, of the 87 bills he has co-sponsored, 14 percent were introduced by a non-Republican—showing a willingness to participate in a bipartisan partnership above that of all other South Carolina delegates and 71 percent of House Republicans.
When Mayor White came into office, one of his main goals was to make Greenville “the most beautiful and livable city in America”—and he’s certainly made great strides in this direction. In fact, Greenville has landed on our 100 Best Places to Live three years running, and has been ranked as having one of America’s 10 Best Downtowns two years in a row.
Greenville: One of the 99 Best Cities for Beer
Besides looking beautiful, it’s a great place to take time to appreciate beauty across the board, thanks to its roaring arts scene. There are four independent theaters, a performing arts center, two arenas, multiple arts festivals, and several arts museums. Plus, there’s also a thriving social dance scene in the town, with swing dancing being a popular Tuesday night ritual at Upstate Swing.
Residents here are likely to…
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Eat at Cracker Barrel.
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Shop at Hobby Lobby.
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Drive a GMC.
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Read Better Homes & Gardens.
- Watch ABC Family.