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Best Places To Live In South Carolina
Last week I talked about the Best Places to Live in North Carolina.
This week we're moving on to the Best Places to Live in South Carolina.
If you've decided that you want to retire or relocate to South Carolina, one of these places can be a best place to live in South Carolina for you!
The median sale price of houses in North Carolina is approximately $137,000, while in South Carolina it's $129,000.
So where in South Carolina is there a Best Place for you?!
Are you a coastal baby who must be on the water, or do you prefer one of the crystal clear pristine lakes? Do you want to live in the foothills located in the northwest corner of the State? Or do you like the long hot summers in the heartland in the center of the State?
Each has is own charm and beauty, with plenty to offer!
If you like the Coast, then I'd head to the greater Charleston area. Charleston SC itself is pretty expensive, so I'd check out some of the places surrounding Charleston like Mount Pleasant, Johns Island and James Island.
There's also Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, and Kiawah Island which are gorgeous, but again a bit pricey!
Two of my favorite, more affordable Best Places to live in South Carolina that afford you the coast and are still within striking distance of Charleston, are Summerville, SC and Beaufort, SC.
Beaufort, SC is "a two for one"…you get to be in striking distance of Charleston plus Savannah, Georgia. If you haven't been to Savannah yet, don't miss it!
Now, if you want to avoid the crowds and traffic of the coastal areas, then relocate or retire to one of the pristine, crystal clear lakes so prevalent in South Carolina.
Lake Keowee and Hartwell Lake are located in the northwest part of South Carolina. They are populated by the Foothill towns of Easley, Seneca, Clemson, and Anderson.
To me, these are some of the most charming, quaint small towns in South Carolina.
If you're interested in college life, you can't go wrong because Clemson University is located in Clemson, and has a "Learning in Retirement Program".
If you're interested in a City with a bit more population, but one that has retained its southern charm, then one of my favorites is Greenville SC with a population of about 59,000, and neighboring Spartanburg with a population of 40,000.
This area is located along the I-85 growth corridor. Many European companies have chosen Spartanburg South Carolina as their home. The downtown of Greenville is filled with shops, restaurants, and live music venues at the Peace Center for the Performing Arts.
If you like it hot, then head to South Carolina's capital city of Columbia.
The winters are mild and you'll make good use of Lake Murray to the west, and Lake Marion to the south. The housing stock is filled with charming, historic, antebellum homes, and college life is active at the University of South Carolina.
Columbia, SC has 2 entertainment districts called The Vista and Five Points. The clubs and restaurants in these areas will keep you hopping and well fed! Columbia has a lot going on for a City of its size.
Well, if you're serious about finding Your Best Place to Live in South Carolina, you're off to a good start by visiting these places.
Whether you're interested in retiring or relocating in South Carolina, there's a place here for you!
About Bob Bencivenga
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Bob Bencivenga is a professional site locator and location analyst for major corporations and has been researching the growth of NC and SC to find the Best Places to Retire or Relocate that are still affordable. |
| Visit his blog The Carolina Report and sign up for FREE updates by email,his FREE Affordable Best Places To Live Report and, get FREE Expert Advice on how to find Your Best Place to Retire or Relocate to in North Carolina and South Carolina, additional resources, and a lot more.
Bob does not sell real estate. |
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Comments on Best Places To Live In South Carolina
Mari @ 5:27 pm
Bob – I was sad to see you didn't mention anything along the Grand Stand. Yes it can have a lot of tourists in the summer but no more than Charleston and the areas south of Myrtle Beach such as Surfide Beach, Garden City, Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island/Litchfield all are MUCH more retiree friendly and most are far less expensive than Charleston area. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Charleston with a passion but it's just too expensive for us and we really want to be close to the ocean. You can purchase a 3 bedroom condo a mile from the ocean for less than 100k right now!
Personally I feel a person can't go wrong with anywhere they select to live in South Carolina! It's an amazing, friendly, great place to live!
Bob @ 9:13 am
Thank You so much for your insights into that area.
I didn't mention the Grand Strand only because I like to get my subscribers to look at
other areas that not everyone knows much about. They can usually find better value there also.
Although, with the housing markets as they are right now, you're right, you can get some awesome deals
along the Grand Strand right now.
I love Pawleys Island, but because of its size and remoteness it's not for everyone and most
people are going to have to work a bit longer than they expected, with our current financial climate.
Thanks Again,
Bob
Mindy Hanger @ 2:17 pm
Hi Bob,
I'm an Executive Recruiter and I have a candidate that interviewed with a client of mine in Sumter, SC. It looks like he might be getting an offer soon and I'm trying to help him & his wife anyway I can as far as best places around Sumter to purchase an affordable home and that offers good public schools for their 3 children ranging form middle school to high school ages. They currently live in a small town in KS.
I was thinking around the Columbia area might offer more for their family, and I heard Oakland or the west side of Shaw (Dalzell proper on the eastside) might be good areas as well.
I live in Nebraska, so I don't know where to direct them
around the Sumter, SC area.
I appreciate any help you can give me!
Warm Regards,
Mindy Hanger
Bob @ 8:20 pm
Hi Mindy,
Yes, Columbia is the area I would recommend.
They should be prepared for some very HOT summers!
They should also visit Florence, SC.
Bob
gale querry @ 10:15 pm
Hi Bob,
We are going to be looking for lake propery in South Carolina for maybe future retirement Lake Hartwell looks very interesting; searching out Anderson and Seneca. What is the summer weather like in this area? And are people friendly to "newcomers"? We are from the very friendly mid-west!!
Thanks!!
Gale
Bob @ 11:56 am
Hi Gale,
Lake Hartwell is a beautiful area!
You should also consider Clemson and Easley,
when you visit Anderson and Seneca.
The climate here is temperate because you're just
in the foothills of the mountains, not in the mountains
characteristic of western North Carolina.
I would say the people's attitudes are conservative in these areas.
They are friendly and helpful, but as in all new areas it takes a while
to find your "peeps" and be invited in.
All these areas and much more are included in great detail in my "Ultimate Guide".
Rob @ 4:59 pm
Hi Bob,
We have just returned from our 8th family vacation to Hilton Head, and have really been bitten by the bug and are considering moving to the area. We have three young children (ages 6 – 12) and are wondering what areas you would consider family friendly, good schools and safe neighborhoods?
We like water activities (more used to a lake lifestyle than ocean, though we love the beaches!) and have been looking at houses in the Bluffton area. Being from the north, any direction you can give would be greatly appreciated.
House price range is 400,000 to 500,000.
Bob @ 11:06 am
Hi Rob and Dianne,
I don't sell any real estate, so I can be totally unbiased in recommending
places that I feel would best fit what you’re looking for!
My "Ultimate Guide", which I've been told
is worth it's weight in gold, is a complete Relocation Guide to the Carolinas.
My list of places to relocate or retire to in the Carolinas is a long one.
It all depends on What’s Important To You.
I've been helping people find their "best place" in the Carolinas for over 10 years!
I help them find a place that’s perfect for them.
When my family and I decided on the Carolinas as the place we wanted
to retire to, I started looking in every nook and cranny for places that
were affordable, had great lifestyles, and future value!
I researched about 100 places and put in depth reviews of them, and
much more, in my "Ultimate Guide", for people just like you who were just
getting started and didn't know much about the Carolinas or where to look for their best place.
I also tell you What to look for, and What to watch out for.
Just not enough…
However, I didn't feel that was enough to really get people on the right
path, so I included a personal consultation with me when you get my "Ultimate
Guide", so we could discuss what you're looking for and map out which places would fit!!
Go to http://www.placesofvalue.com/specialoffer.
You can read about my "Ultimate Guide".
I've included some hidden gems in it that most people don't even know about.
It covers all the things you need to know about…
cost of living, jobs, schools, medical care, housing, crime, and tons more.
Here's what one of my customers said about my "Ultimate Guide",
"A must have for anyone moving to the Carolinas…
it saved me lots of time and money.
There are places in it I never knew had exactly what I
was looking for" – Gary Curto
It comes with a one year guarantee, and a personal consultation with me.
It's only $47, and worth its weight in gold!
It includes 3 Guides each having over 300 pages!
MOST IMPORTANT
You'll receive it immediately, and then we can talk about what's important
to you in your new place, and which places best fit what you're looking for!
Once you receive it, Call me at 845-803-4407.
We'll go through all the towns you should consider.
It will get you acclimated really quick!
I've always felt an ounce of great information and the proper guidance,
is worth its weight in gold (and that's worth a lot these days!).
Especially when it's as important a decision as this.
Looking forward to talking with you,
Bob
Rachel @ 11:54 am
Bob,
I was so excited to find your site and I am definitely going to buy your book. My husband and I have made the decision to relocate to South Carolina next summer and have been doing a lot of research for the best place for our family. We live in Ohio currently and can't wait to be done with winter. We will be taking you up on the offer of a consult once we read your book and it gets a little closer. So happy you are out there as a resource.
Anne @ 9:26 pm
Hi Bob,
We are relocating and for now to Hartsville, SC. Should we consider buying in Columbia? I don't care for Florence – any suggestions you can give us would be SO appreciated!!
Bob @ 8:48 am
Hi Anne,
I don't know your situation and needs, so it's difficult to advise
you as to which Towns might be a Best Place for YOU!
If you need to be in SC, I would start your research by reading about
the places I've picked in my "South Carolina Guide".
I like Aiken, Anderson, Greenville (one of my favorites), Summerville, and also Clemson.
Bob
Shadeen @ 4:33 pm
Hi Bob,
I'm planning to live in SC early next year and I'm in the hospitality field I work in Resorts. I would like to know the best area to live in, somewhere that is close to home and more touristic and city like.Thanks much!
judy @ 4:22 pm
@Rob:
Bluffton is where dreams are made.
I moved here from San Francisco and I thought a freight train would have to move me but I love it here. Everyone I've met has been genuinely happy, polite and helpful.
My only wish is that we didn't move before my daughter reached high school. She loved every minute of the outdoor life, having come from hanging out at malls. It's such a wholesome lifestyle.
Prices are anywhere from 100's to 1.0 depending on which community you want live . Belfair is my favorite but Berkeley Hall, Hampton Hall, Colleton River and Oldfield are also beautiful. Oldfield has a great website which describes the lowcountry perfectly. The photos, 'about', blogs and videos are all rich and full of lowcountry flavor, check it out. You'll love it here!
judy @ 4:25 pm
@Shadeen:
Bluffton is beautiful and close to everything.
Belfair, Berkeley Hall, Oldfield, Hampton Hall and Oldfield all have websites you can check out. I love Belfair but the Oldfield website describes the area best.
Jenna Spitzer @ 1:07 am
Hey Bob,
but hey it's what we are used to. Thanks!
Not sure how this works but we would definitely be interested in a consult. We are a family of 6….mom, dad and 4 small kids looking to leave Ahwatukee AZ to live in SC. We need a safe, family oriented, area. The median income in our town here is like 100,000 per year, so something similar would be great! That sounds kooky i realize
Bob @ 8:54 am
Hi Jenna,
I don't sell any real estate, so I can be totally unbiased in recommending
places I feel would best fit what you’re looking for!
My "Ultimate Guide", which I've been told
is worth it's weight in gold, is a complete Relocation Guide to the Carolinas.
My list of places to relocate or retire to in the Carolinas is a long one.
It all depends on What’s Important To You.
I've been helping people find their "best place" in the Carolinas for over 10 years!
I help them find a place that’s perfect for them.
When my family and I decided on the Carolinas as the place we wanted
to retire to, I started looking in every nook and cranny for places that
were affordable, had great lifestyles, and future value!
I researched about 100 places and put in depth reviews of them, and
much more, in my "Ultimate Guide", for people just like you who were just
getting started and didn't know much about the Carolinas or where to look for their best place.
I also tell you What to look for, and What to watch out for.
Just not enough…
However, I didn't feel that was enough to really get people on the right
path, so I included a personal consultation with me when you get my "Ultimate
Guide", so we could discuss what you're looking for and map out which places would fit!!
Go to http://www.placesofvalue.com/specialoffer.
You can read about my "Ultimate Guide".
I've included some hidden gems in it that most people don't even know about.
It covers all the things you need to know about…
cost of living, jobs, schools, medical care, housing, crime, and tons more.
Here's what one of my customers said about my "Ultimate Guide",
"A must have for anyone moving to the Carolinas…
it saved me lots of time and money.
There are places in it I never knew had exactly what I
was looking for" – Gary Curto
It comes with a one year guarantee, and a personal consultation with me.
It's only $47, and worth its weight in gold!
It includes 3 Guides each having over 300 pages!
MOST IMPORTANT
You'll receive it immediately, and then we can talk about what's important
to you in your new place, and which places best fit what you're looking for!
Once you receive it, Call me at 845-803-4407.
We'll go through all the towns you should consider.
It will get you acclimated really quick!
I've always felt an ounce of great information and the proper guidance,
is worth its weight in gold (and that's worth a lot these days!).
Especially when it's as important a decision as this.
Looking forward to talking with you,
Bob
Theresa @ 6:14 pm
I am also looking for a place in south caroline. We live in new york and want to locate with our kids. We love hilton head, but not sure if it has everything we need. I have 2 kids ages 4 and 10, and I really want to be in a good school district. We also plan on bringing our 42 foot boat with us, and will need to be in an area where we can dock it. Any suggestions????
Bob @ 5:41 pm
Theresa,
There are several places in South Carolina you'll want to consider other than Hilton Head.
Please get a copy on my "South Carolina Guide", and then give me a call, so we can pinpoint them further!
Schools will be important.
Bob
anne Akerley @ 11:05 pm
Hello Bob,
I hope you are happy and doing well. I have been thinking of moving to Charleston,sc. I have some thoughts. WOuld you be able to discuss?
Thank you,
Anne
Bob @ 8:32 am
Hi Anne,
Charleston is one of the very exciting areas in the Carolinas.
If you get a copy of my "Ultimate Guide", we can then get on a phone conference
to review which areas would best suit you.
I don't sell any real estate, so I can be totally unbiased in recommending
places I feel would best fit what you’re looking for!
Any realtor can show you house listings.
I'm here to help you find YOUR Best Place in the Carolinas!
My "Ultimate Guide", which I've been told
is worth it's weight in gold, is a complete Relocation Guide to the Carolinas.
My list of places to relocate or retire to in the Carolinas is a long one.
It all depends on What’s Important To You.
I've been helping people find their "best place" in the Carolinas for over 10 years!
I help them find a place that’s perfect for them.
When my family and I decided on the Carolinas as the place we wanted
to retire to, I started looking in every nook and cranny for places that
were affordable, had great lifestyles, and future value!
I researched about 100 places and put in depth reviews of them, and
much more, in my "Ultimate Guide", for people just like you who were just
getting started and didn't know much about the Carolinas or where to look for their best place.
I also tell you What to look for, and What to watch out for.
Just not enough…
However, I didn't feel that was enough to really get people on the right
path, so I included a personal consultation with me when you get my "Ultimate
Guide", so we could discuss what you're looking for and map out which places would fit!!
Go to http://www.placesofvalue.com/specialoffer.
You can read about my "Ultimate Guide".
I've included some hidden gems in it that most people don't even know about.
It covers all the things you need to know about…
cost of living, jobs, schools, medical care, housing, crime, and tons more.
Here's what one of my customers said about my "Ultimate Guide",
"A must have for anyone moving to the Carolinas…
it saved me lots of time and money.
There are places in it I never knew had exactly what I
was looking for" – Gary Curto
It comes with a one year guarantee, and a personal consultation with me.
It's only $47, and worth its weight in gold!
It includes 3 Guides each having over 300 pages!
MOST IMPORTANT
You'll receive it immediately, and then we can talk about what's important
to you in your new place, and which places best fit what you're looking for!
Once you receive it, Call me at 845-803-4407.
We'll go through all the towns you should consider.
I know this process can feel overwhelming, that’s why I’m here to help you
find YOUR Best Place!
I've always felt an ounce of great information and the proper guidance,
is worth its weight in gold (and that's worth a lot these days!).
Especially when it's as important a decision as this.
Looking forward to talking with you,
Bob
LouP @ 9:08 pm
I am a little late reading this thread, but I still wanted to comment. I love all the places you listed, but I am a Rock Hill girl myself. It's a great place, and in my humble opinion, one of the best in the state. We are 3 hours from the beach and the mountains, Lake Wylie is busy, but nice, we're 30 minutes from Charlotte and we manage both big city amenities and a small town vibe. But, then again, I am a native so I am a little biased.
Also, the Lake Wateree/Ridgeway area is beautiful and quiet.
MO @ 8:25 pm
Bob,
We are looking at moving to either SC or Georiga and we can't decide so we are hoping to find a nice town near the border of the two. We prefer not to live in a city with a population over 40,000 people…. We LOVE the country and all it's beauty yet we love the beach! We just don't know what to do! We would like a town that has shopping, nice neighborhoods, family friendly of course, and and things to do with friends! Any suggestions would be helpful!
Thank You
Bob @ 9:26 am
Hi MO,
There are many great towns along the Georgia/South Carolina…
Anderson, Aiken, and Beaufort are only a few!
I don't sell any real estate, so I can be totally unbiased in recommending
places I feel would best fit what you’re looking for!
Any realtor can show you house listings.
I'm here to help you find YOUR Best Place in the Carolinas!
My "Ultimate Guide", which I've been told
is worth it's weight in gold, is a complete Relocation Guide to the Carolinas.
My list of places to relocate or retire to in the Carolinas is a long one.
It all depends on What’s Important To You.
I've been helping people find their "best place" in the Carolinas for over 10 years!
I help them find a place that’s perfect for them.
When my family and I decided on the Carolinas as the place we wanted
to retire to, I started looking in every nook and cranny for places that
were affordable, had great lifestyles, and future value!
I researched about 100 places and put in depth reviews of them, and
much more, in my "Ultimate Guide", for people just like you who were just
getting started and didn't know much about the Carolinas or where to look for their best place.
I also tell you What to look for, and What to watch out for.
Just not enough…
However, I didn't feel that was enough to really get people on the right
path, so I included a personal consultation with me when you get my "Ultimate
Guide", so we could discuss what you're looking for and map out which places would fit!!
Go to http://www.placesofvalue.com/specialoffer.
You can read about my "Ultimate Guide".
I've included some hidden gems in it that most people don't even know about.
It covers all the things you need to know about…
cost of living, jobs, schools, medical care, housing, crime, and tons more.
Here's what one of my customers said about my "Ultimate Guide",
"A must have for anyone moving to the Carolinas…
it saved me lots of time and money.
There are places in it I never knew had exactly what I
was looking for" – Gary Curto
It comes with a one year guarantee, and a personal consultation with me.
It's only $47, and worth its weight in gold!
It includes 3 Guides each having over 300 pages!
MOST IMPORTANT
You'll receive it immediately, and then we can talk about what's important
to you in your new place, and which places best fit what you're looking for!
Once you receive it, Call me at 845-803-4407.
We'll go through all the towns you should consider.
I know this process can feel overwhelming, that’s why I’m here to help you
find YOUR Best Place!
I've always felt an ounce of great information and the proper guidance,
is worth its weight in gold (and that's worth a lot these days!).
Especially when it's as important a decision as this.
Looking forward to talking with you,
Bob
Paula Genovese @ 7:34 pm
I'm a real estate broker associate in Charleston SC…please contact me if I can be of assistance in your new home search and relocation.
Thank you
Paula Genovese