Best Places to Live in South Carolina
South Carolina offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from historic sites to beautiful beaches and vibrant cities. If you’re considering a move to the Palmetto State, it’s crucial to find the perfect city that aligns with your lifestyle and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the top nine places to live in South Carolina, providing insights into population, median income, housing prices, and more.
- Fort Mill: A Tranquil Retreat Near Charlotte Located on the North Carolina border, Fort Mill offers a peaceful retreat while still being in proximity to Charlotte. Boasting high incomes, reasonable home prices, and a low cost of living, Fort Mill is an excellent choice for those striving for financial stability. The town is renowned for its family-friendly activities, including the Anne Close Springs Greenway and Fort Mill History Museum.
Population: 19,920 Median Annual Income: $101,699 Median Home Price: $409,500 Median Monthly Rent: $1,465 Cost of Living: 5% below national average
- Lexington: Affordable Living Near Columbia Just outside of Columbia, Lexington combines affordability with higher-than-average annual salaries. This suburb is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with Lake Murray offering opportunities for boating and swimming. Additionally, Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve provides excellent hiking trails, making Lexington a great choice for nature lovers.
Population: 21,847 Median Annual Income: $71,850 Median Home Price: $303,900 Median Monthly Rent: $1,284 Cost of Living: 6% below the national average
- Tega Cay: Small City, Big Salaries Situated between the Catawba River and North Carolina, Tega Cay offers impressive yearly salaries, making it an attractive option for residents. This charming city is replete with outdoor activities, from golfing to hiking. History buffs will also appreciate Nanny’s Mountain, which played a role in the Revolutionary War.
Population: 10,834 Median Annual Income: $125,847 Median Home Price: $409,500 Median Monthly Rent: $1,300 Cost of Living: 5% below national average
- Clemson: A College Town with Affordable Living Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Clemson is home to Clemson University, offering a vibrant atmosphere for young adults. With affordable living costs and a variety of cultural attractions, including museums and botanical gardens, Clemson is an excellent choice for those seeking an engaging community.
Population: 16,917 Median Annual Income: $46,075 Median Home Price: $335,480 Median Monthly Rent: $1,113 Cost of Living: 10% below the national average
- Columbia: The Heart of South Carolina As the state capital, Columbia provides a plethora of neighborhoods to choose from. This bustling city offers an array of cultural experiences, from art museums to historic tours. Families can enjoy attractions like the Riverbanks Zoo and Congaree National Park, making Columbia a diverse and exciting place to call home.
Population: 134,057 Median Annual Income: $47,416 Median Home Price: $303,900 Median Monthly Rent: $1,254 Cost of Living: 6% below the national average
- Greenville: Where Adventure Awaits Greenville offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Boasting the lowest cost of living in South Carolina, it’s a city where you can enjoy activities like ziplining and whitewater rafting, as well as food tours and art galleries.
Population: 69,648 Median Annual Income: $58,259 Median Home Price: $335,480 Median Monthly Rent: $1,251 Cost of Living: 10% below the national average
- Mount Pleasant: Historic Charm with High Incomes While housing prices in Mount Pleasant are on the higher side, it’s offset by substantial annual incomes. This Charleston suburb provides easy access to the beach, as well as historical sites like Charles Pinckney’s home and Fort Sumter.
Population: 89,410 Median Annual Income: $104,772 Median Home Price: $576,750 Median Monthly Rent: $2,011 Cost of Living: Same as national average
- Hilton Head Island: A Beach Lover’s Paradise Hilton Head Island offers pristine beaches and a plethora of recreational activities. However, keep in mind that rental costs are higher due to its popularity as a vacation destination. Enjoy the coastal lifestyle and explore attractions like the Coastal Discovery Museum and King Neptune Sundial.
Population: 40,000 Median Annual Income: $86,171 Median Home Price: $552,000 Median Monthly Rent: $1,545 Cost of Living: Same as national average
- Charleston: Where History Meets Charm Charleston, the largest city on our list, is steeped in history and offers a unique living experience. While housing prices and the cost of living are higher, the city’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque streets make it an enticing choice for history enthusiasts.
Population: 137,041 Median Annual Income: $72,071 Median Home Price: $576,750 Median Monthly Rent: $1,571 Cost of Living: Same as national average
Avoid:
Myrtle Beach – Vacation Spot, Tough Living While Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation destination, it may present challenges for residents. With incomes significantly below the national average and a higher crime rate, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Population: 33,638 Median Annual Income: $43,378 Median Home Price: $399,900 Median Monthly Rent: $1,285
Conclusion:
Each city in South Carolina offers a unique blend of opportunities and experiences. By considering factors such as income, housing prices, and lifestyle preferences, you can make an informed decision on which city aligns best with your needs. Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Charleston or the outdoor adventures in Greenville, South Carolina has something to