Get to Know Seneca, SC

Welcome to Seneca, SC: Small-Town Charm with Prime Lakefront Living

If you’re considering lakefront living but don’t want to live too far from civilization, Seneca, SC, should be at the top of your list. The creation of Lakes Keowee, Jocassee, and Hartwell transformed the once sleepy hamlet of a railroad and farming town into a popular vacation and resort destination. This top-ranked place to retire in South Carolina is where you’ll find some of the most coveted lakefront homes in the state. 

But you don’t have to reach your golden years to appreciate Seneca’s charms. The small town appeals to anyone searching for a weekend home, a better work-life balance, or a safe place to raise their family in a nurturing, outdoor-filled environment.

Before you buy a lakefront home near Seneca, get the down low on this Upcountry town. Our profile will give you an idea of what’s available in real estate and what you can expect as a part-time or full-time resident.

About Seneca, SC 

Rugged and rural, this part of the Upstate is a lush forested landscape with Blue Ridge Mountain peaks giving way to waterfalls, lakes, and creeks. It was long used for its resources in lumber and agriculture, but after the creation of the lakes, it became a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Communities have burgeoned on the beautiful hills and peninsulas stretching between Oconee and Clemson. As the seat for Oconee County, Seneca is an energetic and inviting small town with a classic Americana charm. Many businesses now cater to the lakefront vacation lifestyle with local fishing outfitters, specialty boutiques, and delectable restaurants. These lakes are among the best for lakefront living in South Carolina.

This is the furthest north and east you can head in South Carolina, as the region borders Georgia and North Carolina. Being a neighbor to Clemson– famous for its college–Seneca projects with a lively and inviting atmosphere, making it an incredible place to live.

What is the cost of living in Seneca, SC?

South Carolina is one of the more affordable states. On top of that, the Upcountry region is known for its lower cost of living. For being a popular place to kick back and relax, you’ll be impressed how your budget can stretch further when you buy a home near Seneca.

Seneca’s cost of living index stood at 84.5, which is nearly 15 points lower than the US average, five points lower than South Carolina, and on par with big cities like Columbia (84.5) and Greenville (88.7). 

Housing costs ran 31% under the national average, showing how your budget can stretch further here. Only utilities and healthcare ran above the national spending average. Every other category, from groceries to transportation, realized budget savings.

What is Seneca real estate like?

When it comes to real estate, you’ll find no shortage of lakefront living options with varying prices in the greater Seneca region. As of August 2023, Oconee County had 885 listings with an average list price of $414,150. The average price per sq ft came to $324.

Data from June 2023 shows that housing prices were up 26.4%, a testament to the demand for lakefront living. The list prices ranged from $8,000 to $4.9 million.

But even though prices in Oconee County were up, closed sales were down 9.3%. The good news is inventory was increasing and was up 14.1% year-over-year.

Looking specifically at Seneca real estate in June 2023, new listings were down 32% while the median sales price was $300,000, up 6%. Home prices here have steadily risen since 2020 and continued upward in 2023, even if the gains have been smaller. A local real estate agent can provide more insights into Seneca and Oconee County’s current housing market.

Are there condos or townhomes in Seneca?

Most home listings are in the single-family category, but there is a growing segment of condos and townhomes. August 2023 had 43 homes in this market bracket, including some new construction townhomes. Prices ranged from $160,500 to $625,000. The properties included some condos with lakefront views and access.

Is there waterfront living in Seneca?

Yes! Seneca has them all if you’re looking for lakefront, riverfront, creekfront, or other waterfront properties. It’s a primary reason people buy a home in Oconee County!

Seneca is on the southern end of Lake Keowee, which has 300 miles of shoreline all by itself. Living here gives residents access to marinas, restaurants, and essential shops.

But there are plenty of homes on the other three lakes: Hartwell, Jocassee, and Tugalo, that offer the much-sought-after lake lifestyle. And that’s on top of all the rivers and creeks that drain into these beautiful reservoirs. 

The waterfront living opportunities in Seneca range from simple cabins with single docks to high-end lakefront estates. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a full-time residence, the options are plentiful here. 

Are there golf course communities in Seneca?

Live abundantly in the exclusive Cross Creek Plantation near Seneca. Sprawling across 500 undulating acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cross Creek has 175 homes and even more homesites. Membership gains you access to the clubhouse, community pool, and dining. Covenants govern the homes to protect community values.

What is there to do in Seneca, SC?

If you love being outdoors and on the water, Seneca is the place for you! Find endless activities for all ages. Kayak down some of the clearest creeks in the Upcountry, or spend a relaxing day fishing on one of the lakes. Join one of the sailing or fishing clubs. Take the kids tubing or water skiing, or try another water sport.

But it’s not just about the water in Seneca. The surrounding countryside has abundant trails for biking and hiking, with great views around every bend. Search for one of the 28 waterfalls as you wind through the backcountry forests. Rock climbing, rappelling, zip-lining, and horseback riding can all be experienced in the Upstate mountains. 

Golf in Oconee County is first-rate, with eight courses to choose from. From challenging resort greens backed by dramatic dropping landscapes to more casual rolling fairways, the links are a perfect way to spend a spring or fall afternoon near Seneca. Cross Creek Plantation is the highest rated, but you also have the semi-private Oconee Country Club and the scenic The Cliffs at Keowee Falls.

Sometimes you don’t want to be outdoors, and that’s okay. Seneca rounds out its recreation choices with opportunities for culture and entertainment. The local theater group puts on engaging shows throughout the year, while art galleries showcase incredible works by local artists. 

Check out the delightful historic downtown shops and cafes as you stroll picturesque streets. Experience the energetic atmosphere of Ram Cat Alley, where the popular Jazz on the Alley street parties take place every week! The Oconee region also has some interesting museums, like the World of Energy and the Museum of the Cherokee.

What is near Seneca, SC?

Seneca is surrounded by quaint Upcountry small towns, like the artistic Walhalla in the Blue Ridge Mountains and historic Westminster with its popular Apple Day festival. Long Creek feels a world away from the rest of South Carolina with its quiet orchards, farm markets, and beautiful wedding venues. Salem, West Union, and Fair Play are also lakefront living options in Oconee.

Just across the county border and Lake Hartwell is college town Clemson. This larger city has more options for essentials, like a Publix supermarket, health care, and, of course, the university. For fun, catch a Tigers game or explore the botanical gardens.

For big city visiting, Greenville is about an hour’s drive, and Gainesville, GA, is about an hour and a half. The Atlanta metro is within two hours, which is why you’ll find many tourists from Atlanta coming for the quiet of the lake country. 

Moving to Seneca

Offering an ever-growing selection of lakefront real estate and a cost of living that won’t break the bank, Seneca is a great place to live, vacation, or raise a family. Come experience the delights of small-town charm with the peaceful lakeside lifestyle. A local real estate agent can guide you in exploring Oconee County real estate.