The Pros and Cons of Retiring in South Carolina

South Carolina is one of the most charming and welcoming parts of the United States. Not only is it famous for its generous Southern hospitality and miles of tranquil coastline, but the Palmetto State is a special place to retire. The secret’s getting out, though, as the state was the fastest-growing in 2023. Learn about retiring in South Carolina, the pros and cons of the lifestyle, and where to look for a high-quality lifestyle in your best years.

South Carolina Overview

Part of why it’s a popular retirement destination is the surprising number of choices in what kind of lifestyle you can have as a retiree. From scenic beach towns to peaceful mountain communities, South Carolina retirees will find multiple retirement communities with the mild climate and housing options they’ve dreamed about. This array of landscapes provides access to a wealth of vacation resorts, lots of activities, and prime destinations without ever leaving the state! 

One of the top perks of living in South Carolina is the inherent natural beauty. The forests, mountains, lakes, and the Atlantic Ocean are visual reminders that South Carolina is not only a beautiful place to live, but it is also a naturally vast one. Magnificent sunsets drape around the iconic mountains. Hundreds of waterfalls cascade over cliffs into sapphire lakes and winding streams. Peach and apple orchards blossom on the rolling hills of central Carolina. The palmetto tree (which gives SC its nickname as the ‘Palmetto State’) waves tall in the sea breezes washing over the renowned beautiful beaches. The state is also home to the ‘Angel Oak Tree’. This is one of the oldest living things in the United States, over 400 years old, and represents the historical, natural beauty of the southern state.

The great outdoors is only part of the appeal. Here’s what else senior residents say is the best part of retirement in South Carolina

Pros of Retiring in South Carolina

The Great Outdoors

Those already living in South Carolina get to experience the beauty and charm that others fantasize about. With its beautiful hills, sunny beaches, and rolling golf courses, there is never a dull moment for those who love the outdoors. Moving to South Carolina will instantly upgrade your quality of life as you will have no shortage of postcard-worthy, natural beauty all around you. 

If the coast is calling your name, find plenty of beaches along the deep blue, Atlantic Ocean. Myrtle Beach is a vacation town known worldwide for its golf, entertainment, and boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Skywheel and Aquarium or enjoy a sunrise promenade. The Grand Strand sands extend hundreds of miles through North Myrtle Beach into North Carolina. Further South, historic Charleston is on the must-visit list for experiencing Southern charm. Known for its historic pastel antebellum architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and famous cobbled French quarter, Charleston is the jewel of South Carolina. Attractions include the Sumter National Monument and the historic Charleston City Market, to name a few. Plus, there are the nearby beaches at Folly Island and the Isle of Palms.

Those who wish to stay active have an array of scenic walks, forest trails, or hikes throughout South Carolina. Not everyone realizes the Blue Ridge Mountains do run through upper South Carolina, creating a beautiful region with quiet lakes, scenic vistas, and mountain towns. In the Upstate await many beautiful waterfalls, such as the Issaqueen Falls or the Whitewater Falls. But even in the central region, get away from the crowds in fantastic forests, such as the Congaree National Park and the Francis Marion National Forest. If being by water brings you the most joy, many lakes look like they fell straight out of a movie. Lake Hartwell and Lake Greenwood are examples of lakes prized by South Carolina retirees for their low cost of living and waterfront housing.

Golf is another bonus to retiring in South Carolina. The Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island and The Ocean Course on Kiawah Island are two examples of high-end, world-renowned golf courses hailed as some of the best in American golf.  Both courses continue to host PGA Tour events, with The Ocean Course hosting the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship.

Your choice of recreational activities is truly abundant in South Carolina. Find a local pickleball league, hit the course golfing, cruise to your favorite fishing hole, and much, much more.

Health care

“Your health is your wealth,” as they say, and it could not be further from the truth. Health and wellness rank high on the list of pros when choosing South Carolina as a home. Numerous leading healthcare systems are situated throughout the state. The medical centers provide a wealth of specialists in areas from cardiology to rheumatology.

The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and the Roper Institute are world-class hospitals in Charleston. In other regions, look to health care leaders Lexington Medical Center and Spartanburg Medical Center. Both offer first-class, quality healthcare. Having access to specialized care or wellness checks is an integral part of growing older. Choosing SC as a place to live means never worrying about receiving important medical care. 

Lower Taxes

Several financial pros come with retiring in South Carolina. SC has comparatively low property taxes compared to the rest of the country. Senior homeowners may qualify for a homestead exemption that allows the first $50,000 of a property’s fair market value to be excused from local property taxes. This is a fantastic opportunity for those moving to the state to enjoy a relaxed life rather than worry about financial issues.

South Carolina’s tax code favors retirees as there are substantial deductions for other kinds of retirement income. Social Security benefits are exempt from taxation. While there is an income tax, the state has attractive deductions on retirement income for residents. Additionally, the income tax rate varies based on your overall income. 

Residents can claim a $3,000 deduction if they are under 65 or $15,000 if they are over 65, making it exceptionally welcoming for senior citizens who are receiving other forms of retirement income beyond Social Security.

Additionally, there are no inheritance or estate taxes, which often affect widows and widowers. This is another benefit when dealing with some of life’s trickier times. 

Education

When reaching retirement age, most people already have a first-class degree in life. However, learning never stops. Whether it’s years spent in full-time employment or the university of hard knocks, senior citizens do not have to hit pause on knowledge seeking. When life starts to slow down, it doesn’t mean the mind has to as well. With some extra time to enjoy the finer things in life, why not choose education? Or at least have the option…

South Carolina encourages lifelong learning. Residents over 60 can sign up (on a space-available basis) for any state-funded college tuition-free! Seniors can take any class offered and have access to specialized learning programs, all for just a small registration fee. 

Tuition may be waived, but there may be small fees for resources or course materials; however, this is just a small price to pay for valuable learning. 

Mild Climate

The Palmetto State’s moderate climate is ideal for retirees who want to avoid extreme temperatures while still soaking in sunshine. Winters are typically short and mild, with average temperatures hovering around the 50s, making it possible to enjoy outdoor activities year-round without the need for heavy winter gear. Summers can be warm, especially inland, but the coastal breezes help to keep things pleasant, and there’s always the option to cool off at one of the many beautiful beaches. Of course, actual temperatures can vary. The Upstate experiences colder winters with chances of some ice and snow; the Lowcountry can steam in the summer. 

Cons of Retiring in South Carolina 

Like everything in life, there has to be a balance. While South Carolina has many advantages, some cons need to be considered when moving to this colorful state. 

The Weather

South Carolina has beach-friendly summers and mild winters. However, the temperature during the summer months can reach well into the 90F throughout July and August. Heat indexes and humidity can push that even higher. The humid, subtropical climate can be a struggle for those sensitive to the heat. It can make those warm, long days a little uncomfortable. Even parts of the Upstate and Central Carolina can have indexes over 100F. 

Another downside to sub-tropical weather is the threat of hurricanes. With so many coastal towns, there is a constant threat that some will be hit with extreme weather during the year, bringing power shortages, flooding, and potential evacuations. But it’s not just the coast that should be concerned, as Hurricane Helene in 2024 showed. Upstate South Carolina residents lost power for weeks and experienced flash flooding, too.

Hurricanes’ high winds and rainfall cause structural damage that can have a long-term effect on property. Most South Carolinians opt to incorporate wind damage into their homeowners’ insurance. Flood insurance is a separate cost. Depending on what flood zone your property falls in, the cost of flood insurance will vary. 

Major weather events are part of living so close to the coast. Decide if that’s a risk you’re willing to take in exchange for the perks it brings.

House Prices

Although South Carolina has some of the lowest property taxes in the US, those toying with the idea of coastal property in a popular city will need to dig deep. Of course, the state has plenty of housing options, whatever the budget. Still, to live near some of the best places to retire in South Carolina, like Hilton Head Island, Myrtle Beach, or Charleston, has a higher price tag. Look at location-based prices and your personal finances when planning the big move. 

Cost of Living

You may think South Carolina is friendly to your budget. Generally, that has been true, but the same low living costs have drawn more people to the Palmetto State. As a result, its living expenses are on the rise. In 2024, the overall cost of living index placed South Carolina firmly in the middle of the nation. Medical services and utilities tend to run at or above the national average.

Actual living costs range widely across the state. If you’re looking coastal, at places like Seabrook Island or Hilton Head, you’ll need a larger budget to afford the housing. Places like the capital city, Columbia, and Greenville, SC, may have more affordable housing, but transportation costs may increase. Explore the actual costs of living in the regions you may be considering to know if it’s the right place for your retirement budget.

Wildlife 

Each part of the country has its own story to tell when it comes to scary encounters with local wildlife. From rattlesnakes in the deserts of Arizona to moose running wild in Alaska, the US is home to some fascinating creatures. South Carolina is no different! Mosquito invasions and alligators infiltrating residential backyards are a few examples of critters to watch out for. Being warm, the state has a lot of bugs. Homeowners need to watch for cockroaches, termites, and rodents. Paying for pest service is a typical expense in southern living. Of course, the beautiful scenery may outweigh the risk of non-human encounters. Knowing local wildlife will help you know what to expect when relocating to South Carolina. 

Is South Carolina a Good Place to Retire?

The pros of retiring in South Carolina outweigh the cons. The historic coastal cities cannot be replicated, and the financial perks that senior citizens receive are remarkable. Other areas of interest to note when considering moving to SC are the state’s reputation for southern hospitality and rich culinary traditions. 

Together, these items make South Carolina an extremely appealing place to live out those later years. Whether it’s tree-lined walkable downtowns filled with boutiques and dining options or world-class golf resorts, the ‘Palmetto State’ appears to have it all. South Carolina seems to have its arms wide open for those willing to relocate.

FAQs

What are the best places to retire in South Carolina?

Much of that answer depends on your priorities for your retirement. Some are drawn to quiet beach towns like Murrells Inlet, while others prefer to the stunning mountain views outside Spartanburg. Generally speaking, a few areas do pop up again and again, citing their affordability, entertainment options, and/or excellent health care access.

• Spartanburg is touted for its low housing costs and access to outdoor recreation.
• Greenville is another Upstate city prized for scenic views, friendly people, and low living expenses.
• Myrtle Beach has prime access to championship golf courses and the perks of a popular tourist destination.
• Beaufort is a historic city near the coast and Hilton Head Island.
• Summerville has many senior living communities and is convenient to Charleston, SC.
• Tega Cay, near Charlotte, NC, blends urban living with lakefront access and low crime rates.
• However, South Carolina has many great places to live across the state for your retirement.

Where do most seniors living in South Carolina?

Based on the resident average age, the communities with the highest retirement populations are:

• Seabrook Island
• Kiawah Island
• Keoweh Key
• Edisto Beach
• Folly Beach
• Litchfield Beach
• Little River
• Garden City

Does South Carolina have good health care for seniors?

Your need to access quality health care increases as you age in place. Where you live will greatly impact what care providers are nearby and the quality of care you receive. Statewide, South Carolina has received low marks for access to care and its affordability. Medical services are simply better in the more urbanized areas of the state. They’re also more likely to have greater choices in assisted living and long-term care facilities, home health nurses, and independent living communities. South Carolina has a Department on Aging that runs programs and initiatives specifically to boost the quality of elder care. These include family caregiver support, senior centers, and medicare counseling.

Updated October 2024