Moving to South Carolina – 15 Must Visit SC Cities Before Making a Move

 

South Carolina is more than beach palms, crashing waves, and salt marshes. The Palmetto State is a prized place to live, as more people are discovering. Meet a state with a mild climate, lower cost of housing, and unique traditions. In 2023, it was the nation’s fastest-growing state! If you’re curious about moving to South Carolina, you’ll want to know the best places to live. We cover everything from the coastal cities to the Upstate hills and all their perks. 

Brief on South Carolina

History is around every creek and pine tree in the SC. Did you know that the state is one of the original 13 to make up the Union and one of the first to be explored by European settlers? Nicknamed the Palmetto State (a type of tree), it was named in honor of King Charles II. American Revolution and Civil War battle sites crisscross the state, from a star fort in Ninety-Six to Fort Sumter in Charleston.

Fast growth

While just 5.37 million people live here, says the US Census, in 2023, it was the nation’s fastest-growing state by percentage growth. So it may be just the 23rd most populated state in the United States, but it added 1.7% more people from 2022-2023. A lower cost of living definitely contributes to the appeal. Overall, median home prices run 20% under the national average. Experts predict 19% population growth over the next two decades for South Carolina.

Living Costs

South Carolina is among the top ten lowest-taxed states. Living here offers lower real estate, sales, and personal income taxes. Property taxes in the city are among the lowest in the entire country, too. The state income tax rate varies based on actual income, with some excellent tax deductions for South Carolina retirees. Sales tax rates range anywhere from 6% to 9%. There is a motor vehicle tax that also contributes to school taxes.

Mild Weather

The climate is classified as humid subtropical, meaning mild winters, hot and humid summers, and abundant yearly rainfall. Summer is usually the wettest season, receiving almost half of the annual rainfall. Snowfall is rare in the state, with frost only occurring a few days each decade. However, the actual experience differs regionally. The Lowcountry has hotter, more humid summers and pleasant winters, while the Upstate winter temperatures drop under freezing.

Variety in Culture

South Carolina is small yet mighty, and it has unique traditions in each region. Near the coastline, the Lowcountry is famous for its southern hospitality, unique cuisine, historic architecture, and blend of multiple cultures. The Gullah communities of the Sea Islands meet the French influences of Charleston. The Central Carolina has a more Deep South character, with lots of farmlands and small communities. Find equestrian communities, the state capital, and massive lakes. The Upstate brings in Appalachian flair as it moves from the foothills to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Luxuriate in its majestic scenery, hidden waterfalls, and deep reservoirs.

Top Cities in South Carolina

If you’re seriously considering moving to South Carolina, your experience depends greatly on where you decide to live. Cities span from the mountains to the sea islands! Check out these popular cities in South Carolina before moving south.

Charleston

Population: 153,672

Region: Lowcountry

What first stands out about Charleston is its rich history. Founded in 1670 as Charles Town, the oldest and largest city is famous for its well-preserved architecture and historic district. The beautiful Charleston Harbor and its waterfront perfectly capture the charm of southern living. Its nickname, the “Holy City,” comes from the historic places of worship across the historic district. 

Matching the stunning homes and historic buildings is the culture in Charleston. It has what you could call the “perfect Southern hospitality,” with friendly locals and that charming drawl. Its Southern cuisine is world-famous for its flavors and freshness. 

Stay entertained with the vivacious art scene. One highlight is the 17-day Spoleto Festival USA, internationally recognized as America’s premier performing arts festival. Over 100 performances by individual artists grace multiple venues across the city. Since 1980, the city has also hosted the Charleston Conference, a major library industry event. Plus there are museums, downtown galleries, and an arts college.

This is the perfect place to move to if you’d like to live close to the beach but the liveliness that comes with a big city. Charleston has a strong tourism industry. In 2016, a travel magazine ranked Charleston as the best city in the world.

If you just moved to Charleston, you won’t have difficulty adapting as the locals are very welcoming, and there’s so much to do. The popularity does create high demand in the real estate market, so expect prices to match.

Columbia

Population: 139,600

Region: Central

South Carolina’s capital city, Columbia, is the second-largest city in the state. Picked because of its central location, it’s one of the faster growing parts of the state. The state’s flagship university, the University of South Carolina, lends it an exciting, college-town vibe. The students add character to an otherwise quiet center of government. Downtown has cool bars, breweries, and coffee shops. 

The name Columbia comes from Christopher Columbus, who brought European attention to America. As the state center, it has historic attractions like its statehouse. Many museums like Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, Koger Center for the Arts, and Carolina Coliseum, among others, showcase South Carolina’s creative side. Columbia, SC, is also home to the largest entertainment arena in the state, the Colonial Life Arena. It’s Columbia’s premier area and entertainment facility. 

Rounding out its perks are the parks like the 18-acre Finlay Park, Memorial Park, and Granby Park. The Saluda River runs through downtown, perfect for an easy, summertime float. Lake Murray is a short drive away for more water recreation choices. 

One downside is the climate. This city usually reports the highest temperature in the state during the summer, earning the city the nickname “Famously Hot.”

The affordable cost of housing plays into why Columbia is becoming attractive. A median list price of $274,000 was below the state median of $323,000 in September 2024. It’s also one of the few real estate markets that reported stable home sales at that time.

Myrtle Beach

Population: 38,400

Region: Lowcountry

Around 1900, a contest was held to pick a name for this city. A local entrepreneur named Franklin Burrough’s wife suggested naming the place after a locally abundant shrub called the southern wax myrtle.

TripAdvisor lists Myrtle Beach as one of America’s top ten summer vacation destinations. It sits at the heart of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of white sand beaches with a seemingly endless range of activities. Beachfront hotels, golf courses, water parks, amusement rides, shopping areas, and a whole selection of restaurants… tourists and locals can find so much to pick from. Even better is its walkability, which scores highly, especially near the beachfront. Residents have likened living here to living in a small town with all the amenities and conveniences of a big city.

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is recognized as one of the top boardwalks in all of North America. Myrtle Beach among the top 20 destinations for Fourth of July celebrations. The Myrtle Beach Convention Center hosts all sorts of conferences, exhibits, and special events every year.

Besides being a famous tourist attraction with over 20 million visitors annually, Myrtle Beach attracts plenty of retirees due to its affordability and warm climate. The beach destination does have higher average home prices, but there are affordable housing options away from the oceanfront and in its suburbs.

Hilton Head Island

Population: 38,069

Region: Lowcountry

Captain William Hilton sailed on the Adventure from Barbados to explore lands granted by King Charles II of England. He discovered this corner island and named it after himself (“Hilton’s Head”).

Hilton Head sits at the beautiful corner of South Carolina, part of the Lowcountry and the “Golf Capital of the World.” You’ll surely love this spot if you love the sport. In 1997, Tiger Woods named this city the “mecca of golf” when he visited. During spring, golf fans worldwide come over to witness the RBC Heritage at the famous Sea Pines Resort. You’ll get to see only the best players battle it out to be number one!

The real attraction of Hilton Head are the 11 miles of picture-perfect beaches. Among all the beach islands, many publications have lauded that this city has the best beaches around. In-season traffic may slow down getting on and off the island, but once you’re there, it’s a different pace of life. Bike trails make it easy to ditch the car and get away to the incredible dining options, resorts, and miles of beach.

The island also has a thriving cultural scene. During February, experience the annual Hilton Head Seafood Festival, where you’ll enjoy all the seafood you want to your heart’s desire. But there’s also a wine festival, marathons, fishing competitions…the list of events in Hilton Head goes on throughout the year.

Because it is an island town and highly desirable, this is South Carolina’s highest-priced real estate market.

Beaufort

Population: 13,777

Region: Lowcountry

Beaufort frequently ranks on top of any best retirement city polls out there and was named the “Best Small Southern Town” by Southern Living. It’s an alternative to coastal living, being just outside Hilton Head and in the Lowcountry.

This city was chartered in 1711, making it the state’s second-oldest town after Charleston. Thanks to a thriving artistic community, it has been dubbed one of “America’s Best Art Towns.” It is well-known for its scenic locations and for preserving its antebellum architecture. 

Speaking of scenic locations, the city has been used for various famous films, such as Forrest Gump, A Walk to Remember, and G.I. Jane. The annual Beaufort International Film Festival, held every February, continues its love of cinema and screens independent films.

If you’re a foodie who loves sampling small bites of everything, get tickets to the city’s annual “A Taste of Beaufort.” It features twenty local restaurants, fine wines, and live music to satisfy that foodaholic in you. Perhaps even more famous is the Beaufort Water Festival, where thousands come for the live music, sailing regatta, and additional week-long roster of special events.

If you like action and adventure, Beaufort has excellent watersports and boating. Situated on the Beaufort River and surrounded by more creeks and bays, National Geographic Adventures ranked it the Number Seven Waterfront Adventure Town.

All the waterfront and recreational opportunities make it a desirable place to live in the Lowcountry. Its real estate market is among the highest-priced in the state.

Bluffton

Population: 34,000

Region: Lowcountry

Bluffton was the fastest-growing municipality in South Carolina in the last Census count. This coastal village is a historically preserved city that blends small-town comfort with perks of a larger city like health care and shopping access.

The city overlooks the May River. Bluffton was once mostly wetlands, many of which were drained during the antebellum era for farming. A network of canals and lowlands still lend the local communities a peaceful vibe, with homes looking out over marshes and waterfronts. The coastal lifestyle is very much a part of being in the Low Country. Bluffton has the last full-time oyster shucking business in South Carolina, the Bluffton Oyster Co.

Besides quiet Lowcountry paddles and fishing spots, Bluffton has more advantages. Play on exquisite golf courses or browse its arts centers. Seafood connoisseurs will also definitely enjoy this coastal spot as it serves only the freshest seafood in all restaurants. Drive over the bridge to the beaches at Hilton Head Island or take a boat ride to the quiet Daufuskie Island.

You may have heard of the Inn at Palmetto Bluff, a multi-award-winning hotel, including Best Hotel in the Country. Sun City Hilton Head is just outside the town, an expansive senior living community packed with amenities. If peaceful living in the Lowcountry sounds right, explore Bluffton, SC.

Kiawah Island

Population: 1,988

Region: Lowcountry

How does island living with beautiful weather all year round sound? Perhaps moving to Kiawah Island is right for you. This sea island on the United States Atlantic Coast near Charleston is sometimes called “Kiawa” or “Kittiwar.”

Kiawah Island was named after the Kiawah Indians, whose chief led the English colonists to settle at Charlestowne Landing. Prior to the Civil War, the island was primarily used for cattle farming. Today, it’s a mostly private island with charming beach houses, a prized golf and beach resort, and small shopping district. Among the coastal towns, it’s prized for its quiet living.

Summers are moderately warm with cool sea breezes. Winters are quite calm. Spring and autumn bring forth such beautiful colors at sunrise and sunsets, plus wonderfully mild temperatures.

If you enjoy golfing, you’ll be happy to know that five award-winning golf courses are here. One of which is the world-renowned Ocean Course, designed by Pete and Alice Dye. This island is hailed as one of the top premier golf destinations on the East Coast.

Besides golfing and searching the shores for shells, there are other ways to have outdoor adventures. Enjoy horseback riding along the beach, kayaking on bogs, and appreciating exotic, native wildlife in parks. There is no shortage of things to enjoy on the island.

Florence

Population: 40,000

Region: Central

Florence is a beautiful name for a charming city. Being at the intersection of transportation networks makes it one of the larger cities in South Carolina.

In the mid-19th century, two intersecting railroads were built (Wilmington and Manchester, and Northeastern). The president of W&M Railroad, W. W. Harllee, built his home on the junction and named the city after his daughter.

History buffs will appreciate moving to Florence, SC: the Florence National Cemetery, the War Between the States Museum, and a large chunk of the 66-mile Revolutionary Rivers Trail can all be found in this city.

Florence is making investments in its growth, from business incentives to the courses on offer at the local community college. It’s created an art district, has a performing arts center, and is investing in building town culture with concert series and a farmer’s market. Young professionals take advantage of the ample job opportunities and inexpensive housing. This is also a great choice for families with children for its above-average school system.

Long an agricultural area, it’s known for its pecans. The races at the Florence Motor Speedway are another draw, with a full event schedule bringing adrenaline-packed action to the circuit.

Greenville

Population: 72,000

Region: Upstate

This charming town is the state’s sixth-largest city. Some call it the best city to live in South Carolina, with Forbes Magazine naming it one of America’s Best Downtowns. A wealthy American settler named Richard Pearis arrived in Greenville in 1754 and received 100,000 acres of land from the Cherokee. It led to the establishment of the town in the Upstate. During World War I, this city served as a training camp center for army recruits. Some liked it so much they came back.

Greenville, SC, has an incredible town culture. The epicenter is the Falls Park at the Reedy River, a scenic location with a concert stage and walking trails. Art is deeply embedded in its veins. There’s the Greenville County Museum of Art, showcasing amazing works of Southern artists from past to present day, and the Upcountry History Museum, which depicts what life used to be like in the city back in the day. Art galleries and local restaurants fill city districts. 

Plenty of annual festivals are also celebrated in Greenville, like the New South Comedy Festival, a ten-day comedy festival; Euphoria Greenville, a four-day culinary event; and the Upstate Shakespeare Festival, which performs classic plays by renowned playwrights.

As its name suggests, Greenville has plenty of green spaces and gorgeous parks, which means there are plenty of fantastic activities for those who love the outdoors. Enjoy biking trails and hiking in beautiful state parks. The number of activities in Greenville is genuinely incredible and makes the city appealing to many. The city’s population continues to grow year after year as more people relocate to Greenville, SC.

Spartanburg

Population: 38,500

Region: Upstate

This thriving city is a two-hour drive from the state’s capital, Columbia. Spartanburg, SC, was formed in 1785 and was named after a military force commonly known as the Spartan Regiment during the American Revolutionary War. It became a center for textile manufacturing in the late 19th century. Today, it’s a modern center with a robust job market, especially in manufacturing and health care. That helps the Upcountry town have low unemployment rates.

Leaders and developers revitalized the downtown commercial district in the past decades. The remodeling of Morgan Square and the restoration of several historic structures has created a fun, downtown culture. Visit for it late spring/early summer Music on Main events, art walks, and festivals. The Chapman Cultural Center is the city’s cultural anchor for art, theater, history, dance, and music. The annual International Festival, held at Barnet Park every October, showcases cuisine and culture from countries worldwide. This is celebrated along with the Annual Sidewalk Arts Show. Talk about two festivals at once!

If you adore the outdoors, Spartanburg is a great city to consider for moving to upstate South Carolina. Find expansive mountain biking areas, hiking trails, and gorgeous urban parks. You’ll surely get your fill of the great outdoors in this area!

The city is popular with young professionals looking for steady employment as it houses several international companies such as Denny’s, Adidas, Michelin, and BMW.  Besides the economic opportunities, Spartanburg is immensely popular with families due to its excellent school system. Several schools frequently post scores above the South Carolina average. The low housing costs add to all these perks!

Mount Pleasant

Population: 94,500

Region: Lowcountry

This Charleston County town oft ranks among the best places to live in South Carolina. Located ten miles outside of Charleston proper, Mount Pleasant couldn’t be named any better. The residential city packs in a lot of perks. For starters, it has one of the best public schools in South Carolina. The highly rated schools and extensive family-friendly recreational amenities make it desirable among families. Find shopping centers with movie theaters, retailers, and delicious restaurants. Check out the Shem Creek Boardwalk, where dining comes with peaceful scenery and sunsets.

Houses run higher in Mount Pleasant because of the demand for living here. People tend to choose this city because it’s near Charleston but not in Charleston itself. Beaches are five to fifteen minutes away from most homes. However, real estate in Mount Pleasant is considered a solid investment because of the steady demand from home buyers.

Rock Hill

Population: 75,300

Region: Upstate

Rock Hill is the fifth-largest city in the state. The name comes from engineers and surveyors who used to run two miles to this area before railroads were installed. In 1848, one of the early founding families decided that installing a railroad would be advantageous, and it was built by 1852. Settlers then became interested in the area, thus growing the economy. It also helps that it’s part of the thriving Charlotte metro, one of the fastest-growing cities in the South.

Rock Hill houses over 30 parks, the popular Rock Hill Outdoor Center, and four indoor recreation centers.  It has a world-class BMX track and training facility. Nearby is Lake Wylie and the Catawba River, which have public access for water recreation. This city is definitely for those who love outdoor adventures!

Each spring, the city celebrates the Come See Me Festival, which attracts 125,000 visitors from all over the country. A magazine voted this festival the Best Southern Festival.

Winthrop University lends the whole town a young student vibe. The United States Disc Golf Tournament is also hosted here. The charming Old Town district is where locals go for the town’s cultural events and celebrations scheduled throughout the year.

Summerville

Population: 52,549

Region: Central/Lowcountry

Summerville became an official town in 1847. That same year, a law was passed around town against the cutting down of trees of all sizes. Up until now, the motto on the town’s seal reads “Sacra Pinus Esto (The Pine is Sacred).” Because of the various greenery that contributes to fresh air, the International Congress of Physicians listed this town as one of the best areas in the world for treatment and eventual recovery of disorders concerning the lungs and throat.

Since 1972, tourists and residents have been flocking to this city outside Charleston to celebrate the annual Flowertown Festival, the largest arts and crafts festival of the entire South Carolina. This three-day festivity is free for everyone. Experience the classic town festival attractions such as arts and crafts, a kids’ carnival, scrumptious food at the Taste of Summerville, and much more.

Summerville is a South Carolina city with a relaxing, small-town feel, and lots of green space. The parks are extremely kid and pet-friendly. In addition to the playgrounds and parks, locals have golf courses, biking and hiking trails around town. The lower housing costs and several senior living communities make it popular among retirees.

Anderson

Population: 29,700

Region: Upstate

Anderson is known as the friendliest city in the state. A fun historical fact about this city: in the late 19th century, when electricity was first spreading in America, this was the first in the South to install cables to carry electricity. This earned the city its nickname, the “Electric City.”

Piggybacking on top of being called the “Electric City”, Anderson, SC, also became the first city in the world to supply a cotton gin with electricity.

With a college in town and Clemson University nearby, this Upstate town definitely has energetic, college-town vibes. People also stay because they love the mild weather and low cost of living. Downtown feels like a classic American community, with friendly people and mom-and-pop shops.

Much of the fun centers around the great outdoors. Lake Hartwell is nearby, extending its waters for miles of boating and fishing. The Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center, the largest recreational area in the city, is a 37,000 square foot facility and can accommodate 15,000 people. It’s a sports center with various sports fields, like golf courses, tennis courts, baseball, and soccer fields. Find parks, golf clubs, and nature trails.

This city is also one of the safest and most welcoming in the state, perfect for families and even singles looking for a place to move to. Affordable housing costs add to its appeal.

North Augusta

Population: 26,300

Region: Central

North Augusta was a famous vacation spot for Northerners back in the 20th century. The mild climate was one of the primary reasons why it was so popular. Being along the north bank of the Savannah River and across from Augusta, GA, added to its appeal.

North Augusta is a great place to live. It has a relatively low crime rate, excellent public schools, and affordable housing. Sports brand Nike hosts its annual summer events at the Riverview Park Activities Center, located along the Savannah River. Outside town await dense woodlands with equestrian trails and hiking paths. Farms open the fields for berry picking and pumpkin season. A minor league baseball team adds to the fun things to do on this side of the river.

For more activities, the Morris Museum of Art is a classic for those who appreciate the visual arts. Listen to live music at the recurring Third Thursdays and Music in the Park. The culinary scene is delicious, with barbeque and homemade ice cream. The Old McDonald Fish Camp serves all-you-can-eat catfish!

Being near Augusta, living across the river places locals near an affordable city prized for its golfing and southern hospitality. Median prices are typically under the South Carolinian average.

The Pros and Cons of Living in South Carolina

Just like with any other area, there are pros and cons to living in this state. Weigh your options up and see if you’d like to live here:

Pros:

Excellent Healthcare

In the right places, the state has quality healthcare plans. Its top teaching hospital is the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston. Access to medical services is essential for retirees.

Plenty of Outdoor Activities

Those who enjoy getting under the sun and doing tons of outdoor activities will love living in South Carolina. Stunning beaches, picturesque lakes and creeks, and exotic swimming holes are just the start of what awaits. The state has 47 parks in its system, and that doesn’t count the seven national parks, wildlife management areas, and county-run parks.

Slow-Paced Lifestyle

If you get easily stressed out living a fast-paced lifestyle in a packed city, this state is perfect. The largest city barely has over 150,000 people! Part of the southern lifestyle is the reduced sense of urgency. In many towns, traffic jams are a rare thing. In Columbia, the typical commute time in 15 minutes! The relaxed pace allows you to enjoy the simple pleasures of living.

Cons

Education

The state currently ranks 42th in education in the country. If you have kids currently studying, there might be better places for them to go. However, there are high-performing school districts in South Carolina that provide enriching programs.

Crime Rate

The state’s overall crime rate is higher than in most states. The same is not to be said for individual cities, some of which earn high marks for safety.

Finding the Best Cities to Live in South Carolina

If you love watersports, beaches, natural areas, and golfing, South Carolina may be just right for you. It definitely has a distinct southern culture, but that just means friendly people, helpful neighbors, and a relaxed lifestyle. And… if you’re a big fan of seafood, the state serves only the freshest seafood around.

On the other hand, if you’re considering moving to North Carolina, check out the top cities to visit in NC before moving! You can even stack up how the two Carolinas compare to see if one appeals more to your lifestyle.

Updated October 2024