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Best Places to Live in South Carolina

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Best Places to Live in South Carolina

Stunning scenery, Southern hospitality and thriving economies make these S.C. cities great places to live. Read on to see which ones made our list.

By Livability on October 26, 2023

Best places to live in South Carolina
iStock/Sean Pavone

With about 5 million residents and an abundance of natural resources, South Carolina is full of stunning scenery, events and festivals, a growing economy, and that Southern hospitality we all know and love. It regularly ranks as one of the best places to live and you can hardly argue otherwise. South Carolina’s warm and welcoming climate means ample opportunities to get outside and enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, hiking and cycling. History lovers have plenty to see and do in cities like Beaufort, the second oldest in the state, while foodies can feast on fresh seafood as a way of life in one of the state’s many coastal towns. Coupled with an affordable cost of living and friendly residents from coast to coast, you can understand why South Carolina is a great place to live.

Aiken

A stroll through the Hopelands Gardens in Aiken, S.C. Aiken is one of the best places to live in South Carolina.
Journal Communications/Ian Curcio
A stroll through the Hopelands Gardens in Aiken, South Carolina.

Why Aiken is one of the best cities to live in South Carolina

Need a list of reasons why you should move to Aiken, SC? Let’s dive right in. For starters, this beautiful city was named “Best Small Town in the South” by Southern Living Magazine thanks to its beautiful scenery, excellent weather and warm community. Sometimes referred to as an equestrian paradise, Aiken is the place to go for anyone who loves these majestic creatures. Downtown is full of horse statues and equine art galleries, and barns, trainers and competitions are readily available within the city and its surrounding countryside. Whether you like events such as dressage, foxhunting, polo, carriage driving or trail riding, Aiken offers you countless opportunities to watch or participate in it all.

If you’re seeking a different kind of entertainment, no worries. You can find phenomenal facilities for sports such as golf and tennis, as well as a variety of hiking trails, art galleries, bird-watching hotspots and live musical and theatrical performances. Each season brings new events and tourists to town, such as Bluegrass Festival in the spring, Farmer’s Market in the Alley in the summer, The Blessing of the Hounds in the fall, and Night of 1,000 Lights in winter. Trust us when we say you really can’t run out of things to do or people to befriend when you make your home in Aiken, South Carolina.

Is Aiken an affordable place to live?

Aiken has a lower cost of living than many comparable cities around the nation, as well as lower taxes. The Council for Community and Economic Research says the cost of living in Aiken is 84% of the national average, which means it’s one of the most affordable cities to live within the U.S. Groceries, rent and mortgages all come in lower than the national average as well, which means you can expect your dollar to stretch further in Aiken.

Beaufort

A sidewalk runs along a lakefront park next to a marina in Beaufort, S.C., one of South Carolina's best cities.
iStock/VisionsbyAtlee
A sidewalk runs along a lakefront park next to a marina in Beaufort, S.C.

Why is Beaufort one of the best cities to live in South Carolina?

Beaufort, SC boasts a lower cost of living than many cities around the U.S. You can expect to find more affordable housing and utilities here, and you probably won’t be paying as much for things like groceries, transportation and health care costs. The state does have an income tax but also offers generous deductions for retirees, making it an appealing place not only for young professionals and families but seniors as well.

While affordability is certainly a huge perk to anyone interested in living in Beaufort, it isn’t the only reason people are chomping at the bit to make their home in this beautiful city. The small town charm and rich history of the area have earned it the nickname “Queen of the Sea Islands.” The beaches are among the most popular weekend destinations among locals, but you can also find plenty to do and see downtown such as carriage and walking tours, bar crawls and plenty of local shopping and dining.

What is Beaufort known for?

Founded in 1711, Beaufort has a reputation for its unmatched scenery, antebellum architecture, and for being the filming location for famous movies such as “Forrest Gump,” “The Big Chill,” “The Prince of Tides,” and the Netflix series “Outer Banks.” Some say the city rivals Charleston in its natural beauty and historic atmosphere. Beaufort is also renowned for its outdoor activities and landscapes and happens to be home to roughly a quarter of all the coastal marshlands of the entire country. 

Charleston

The French Quarter in Charleston, one of the best places to live in South Carolina.
iStock/SeanPavonePhoto
The French Quarter in Charleston, South Carolina.

Why Charleston is one of the best place to live in South Carolina

Does Charleston, SC even need an introduction? This booming town is home to nearly 150,000 residents, a thriving job market, a generous arts and culture scene and unparalleled weather that makes it easier than ever to leave the world behind for a little weekend R&R in nature. The best part is you don’t have to leave town to take advantage of outdoor activities, fine dining, world-class festivals or family-friendly events. You can happily live, work, and play year round without ever commuting more than half an hour. 

A rich history and vibrant culture make up the vast majority of Charleston’s reputation, and for good reason. The city was founded in 1670, making it one of the oldest in the country, and it shows. From its historic cobblestone to its famous pastel painted homes, walking through the winding streets of Charleston can make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. Fortunately, the city has also invested in things like infrastructure, technology and business incentives, making it an attractive destination for major employers and entrepreneurs alike. 

Is it expensive to live in Charleston? 

Charleston is bursting at the seams with amenities, and you can expect to pay a higher price to live here. The average salary hovers around $63,000 per year, which ranks Charleston as the second highest per-capita income in the state. There are several major employers in the area, including the U.S. Department of Defense, Medical University of South Carolina, Boeing, Bosch and Mercedes-Benz, which account for the vast array of job opportunities in the city ranging from tourism and health care to education and engineering. 

Clemson

Historic building in Clemson, S.C.
iStock/RobHainer
Historic building in Clemson, South Carolina.

Why is Clemson one of the best places to live in South Carolina?

Forbes Magazine named Clemson, SC as one of the best places to retire, and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand why. The city is home to a number of beautiful parks, manicured golf courses and recreational centers. The area also boasts upwards of 220 sunny days per year and average temperatures hovering in the low 60s, which mean you can easily spend your days outside for well over half the year without any inconvenience. 

Young professionals and families interested in moving to Clemson will be pleased to know the city has plenty to offer them, too. Clemson University draws around 22,000 undergraduates per year. This not only brings in a host of inspired young minds but means there are ample job opportunities, sporting events, festivals, dining, bars and culture to enjoy as a resident of the city. From Clemson Tiger game days to strolls through the nearly 300-acre South Carolina Botanical Garden, residents of all ages can take advantage of the university’s presence. 

Is Clemson health care good?

Clemson is home to a respected university and growing medical community, which means you can find quality health care facilities, specialized medicine and engaged medical professionals with ease. Many seniors take the city’s state-of-the-art health care into consideration when choosing to retire here. There are plenty of hospitals, clinics and specialized treatment centers and professionals within the city, which means you will have no trouble finding quality, comprehensive care if the need arises. 

Columbia

The South Carolina State House is the building housing the government of the U.S. state of South Carolina.
iStock/Ultima_Gaina
The South Carolina State House is the building housing the government of the U.S. state of South Carolina.

Why Columbia is a best place to live in South Carolina

Do you want to move to Columbia, SC? The odds you will love living here are high. This charming little city can occasionally be overlooked by more popular destinations such as Charleston and Greenville, but Columbia has a host of qualities and perks that make it a beautiful and rewarding place to live for young professionals, families and retirees alike.

Columbia has invested many years and dollars revitalizing its downtown, which means you can find plenty of activities, shops and restaurants despite living in a city that clocked a population just over 136,000 in the 2020 census. With less traffic and fewer crowds to compete with for elbow room, exploring and enjoying the city’s innumerable attractions is simple and easy. Green spaces, riverfront pathways, hardwood forests and wildlife abound here, making it a nature lover’s paradise. But you can also stick around the city and take advantage of hotspots like the Empire Supper Club, Colonial Life Arena, Columbia Children’s Theatre and Richland Library. 

Columbia is also a great city for enjoying women’s sports. The University of South Carolina has a wealth of high-level women’s sports, and the Gamecock faithful come out to support them in huge numbers.

Is it expensive to live in Columbia?

South Carolina has a lower cost of living compared to the rest of the United States, and Columbia ranks more affordable than other cities within the state. You can expect to see housing prices about 15 percent cheaper than the national average in Columbia, as well as lower property taxes, utilities and groceries. 

Greenville

Greenville Heritage Sound Check concert at the Peace Center in Greenville, S.C.
©Journal Communications/Stephen Stinson
Greenville Heritage Sound Check concert at the Peace Center in Greenville, S.C.

Why is Greenville a best place to live in South Carolina?

With a lower cost of living compared to the national average and mild year-round weather, many consider Greenville, SC is a great place to live, work and play. Putting down roots here means you can enjoy all the perks of modern life while also taking advantage of your proximity to the illustrious and beloved Blue Ridge Mountains. The city is also home to attractions such as the Greenville County Museum of Art and Falls Park on the Reedy, a local treasure considered to be the birthplace of the city that offers riverside gardens, a renowned suspension bridge and breathtaking waterfall views. 

You will find no shortage of arts and entertainment in Greenville. People from all over the world visit the city to explore places like the Carolina Music Museum, the Greenville County Museum of Art, Peace Center, the Alchemy Comedy Club, and the CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park. Food & Wine has even dubbed the city one of the “next great food cities” thanks to its surplus of fresh ingredients, traditional Southern cuisine and creative craft brews.

What’s it like to live in Greenville?

Greenville used to be known as a “textile powerhouse.” But today the region is home to major employers such as GE and Michelin. Combined with a revitalized downtown and growing economy breathing new life into the region and its residents, Greenville is among one of the best places to live in South Carolina. New businesses regularly pop up in the city center, the culinary scene continues to expand, and annual activities invite residents and tourists alike to enjoy everything the city has to offer. 

Hilton Head

Hilton Head, S.C., lighthouse at dusk. Hilton Head is one of the best places to live in South Carolina.
iStock/Sean Pavone
Hilton Head, South Carolina, lighthouse at dusk.

Why Hilton Head is a great place to live in South Carolina

Wondering if Hilton Head, SC is a great place to live? You don’t have to wonder anymore. This stunning waterfront city has been named one of the best vacation destinations in the country time and time again, but it’s a stellar place to call home, too. With its innumerable Atlantic Ocean beaches, top-notch tourism amenities, and phenomenal year-round weather, Hilton Head is hands down one of the best cities in South Carolina. 

One of the greatest perks of making your home in Hilton Head is that there are more attractions, events and amenities than you can count. Sandy beaches are worth their weight in gold but are a far cry from the only benefit of life here. Arts and culture flourish here with local gems like the world’s first Mermaid Encounter Boat Tour, the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra and the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. And for an island only 5 miles wide and 12 miles long, you may be shocked to learn there are more than 250 restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re craving Thai or Mexican, Japanese or German, Italian or French, you will have no trouble finding something to satisfy your appetite.

Is Hilton Head a safe place to live?

Among the city’s mile-long list of accolades is safety. Hilton Head crime rates are said to be around 40 percent lower than the national average. That makes it not only a great place to vacation but a wonderful candidate for anyone hoping to raise their family amid the sun, sand and surf. 

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at sunrise.
iStock/Chansak Joe
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at sunrise.

Why is Myrtle Beach a great place to live in South Carolina?

Is Myrtle Beach, SC, one of the best places to live along the coast? You bet it is. With beautiful oceanfront beaches, numerous parks and nature preserves, and the highly regarded Intracoastal Waterway, Myrtle Beach is considered to be one of the top relocation destinations for young families and retirees. The town attracts thousands of tourists each year, particularly in the summer, which may not appeal to everyone. But the benefit of a strong tourism economy lies in the amenities. From a diversity of restaurants and entertainment to a thriving rental market and outdoor recreation, Myrtle Beach easily earns a top spot on many best places to live in South Carolina lists. 

Despite being one of the most popular destinations in the state, Myrtle Beach garners attention for its impressive cost of living. This affordable city comes in around eight percent lower than the national average and six percent lower than neighboring cities like Charleston and Charlotte, N.C. Even the housing market is worth noting, with prices coming in significantly below the national median. This affordability makes Myrtle Beach very appealing to young families who want their children to enjoy a scenic coastal lifestyle. 

Is the weather nice in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach is known not only for its scenery but its climate. The mild weather is often considered one of the main reasons people like to live here. A subtropical climate, year round warm weather, and around 215 sunny days per year, this is the perfect place to be if you want to spend as many days as possible enjoying the area’s countless outdoor recreational opportunities. The beaches are the clear winner here, but kayaking, fishing, camping, hiking and boating are other popular local pastimes. 

Rock Hill

Early morning sunrise aerial over Rock Hill, South Carolina.
iStock/digidreamgrafix
Early morning sunrise aerial over Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Why Rock Hill is one of the great cities to live in South Carolina

Known throughout the region as “Football City USA,” Rock Hill, SC has more to offer than an admittedly quaint and charming downtown. At first glance it may appear that the town is a little on the sleepy side. But it’s actually one of the fastest-growing places on the map. And even though Rock Hill is the largest city in York County and the fifth largest in the state, it is surprisingly affordable compared to the national and state average. 

But what about things to do? Don’t worry, the city has you covered there, too. Outdoor amenities are high on the list of local favorites. Foundation Park is a treasured urban park that is just a stone’s throw from the city’s many restaurant and shopping areas, and the 11-acre Glencairn Garden is rich in botanical gardens and even hosts an annual spring festival. You have plenty of dining options, too. Legal Remedy Brewing and Flipside Restaurant are frequently mentioned among the locals, but there are plenty of must-try restaurants, coffee shops and bars in and around the downtown area.

What kinds of jobs are in Rock Hill? 

With a growing economy and numerous employers scattered throughout the city, residents will have almost no trouble finding a job. The largest industries in the city include manufacturing, retail trade, health care and social assistance. But among the most common jobs are office and administrative support, sales and related occupations and production occupations. With that said, you can also find roles in specialties such as health diagnosing and technical occupations, as well as architecture and engineering.

Spartanburg

Autumn in Spartanburg, S.C. Spartanburg is one of the best places to live in South Carolina.
iStock/DenisTangneyJr
Autumn in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Why is Spartanburg one of the great cities to live in South Carolina?

Are you interested in living in Spartanburg, SC? This historic city predates the Revolutionary War and served as a strategic military hub and major railroad center. Over the years it also developed a reputation as a leader in regional textile manufacturing. 

While you can still find and enjoy traces of the city’s military and industrial history scattered throughout its various sites and museums, current day residents appreciate it for more modern amenities. Living here provides a great mixture of city and rural life, and there are plenty of worthwhile neighborhoods to explore if you want to put down roots. From the stunning architecture of Converse Heights to the more industrial Grain District and upscale Wadsworth Hills, there’s something here for everyone. It doesn’t hurt that the cost of living in Spartanburg is lower than other comparable cities either.

What is there to do in Spartanburg?

Living in Spartanburg affords residents with plenty of things to do. From the outdoor amenities, such as Hatcher Garden, Cleveland Park and Croft State Park, to the downtown shops, restaurants and art galleries, the city has something for everyone. The downtown cultural district is a favorite among locals and home to the Spartanburg Art Museum, while the Spartanburg Regional History Museum is a great destination for anyone with a love for local history. The Children’s Museum of the Upstate and Hollywood Animal Preserve are two other local favorites of young families in the area.

Thinking of Moving to South Carolina?

You don’t have to stress about finding a great place to live in South Carolina. We have plenty of resources for moving to South Carolina or finding other best places to live in the Southeast. No matter where you decide to put down roots, we can help you determine where to move and find the best places to live in the U.S.

Other Great Places To Live Near South Carolina

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