Best Places to Live in South Carolina (2025)
Discover the best neighborhoods in South Carolina. From Charleston's preserved historic districts to Greenville's walkable downtown renaissance and beach communities, explore South Carolina living through detailed neighborhood guides.
South Carolina Neighborhood Guides ()
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Why Move to South Carolina?
South Carolina combines Southern charm with remarkable affordability, growing job markets, and mild coastal climate. Charleston ranks consistently among America's top cities with preserved architecture, culinary scene, and walkable peninsula. Greenville's downtown transformation created pedestrian-friendly Main Street with falls park. The state offers no tax on Social Security, lower property taxes than North Carolina, and 200+ miles of beaches from Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head.
Our South Carolina neighborhood guides analyze real data on cost of living, school ratings, beach access, and community characteristics to help you find your perfect match. Whether you prioritize Charleston's historic peninsula living, Greenville's walkable downtown revival, Columbia's university atmosphere with USC, or coastal resort communities, these guides provide detailed insights into South Carolina's most livable areas.
South Carolina Regions: Where to Live
Charleston & Lowcountry
Known for: Historic preservation, culinary scene, walkable peninsula, beaches. Charleston features rainbow row, King Street shopping, and waterfront parks. Mount Pleasant provides family suburbs with beach access. Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island offer barrier island living. Strong tourism economy with Boeing and healthcare. Premium pricing but unmatched Southern charm.
Greenville & Upstate
Known for: Downtown transformation, Falls Park, Main Street walkability, BMW manufacturing. Greenville created pedestrian-friendly downtown with restaurants and shops. More affordable than Charleston with mountain proximity. Strong schools and growing economy. Furman University adds culture. Appeals to families and professionals seeking affordability with quality amenities.
Columbia & Midlands
Known for: State capital, University of South Carolina, government jobs, central location. Columbia offers more affordable living than coastal areas. Five Points and The Vista provide entertainment districts. Gamecock football culture dominates. River access and lake communities nearby. Most affordable major metro in state while maintaining urban amenities.
Hilton Head & Beaufort
Known for: Resort living, golf communities, gated developments, retired military. Hilton Head features world-class golf and beach resort atmosphere. Beaufort offers historic waterfront town with Marine base proximity. Higher costs but exceptional amenities. Strong second-home and retiree population. Appeals to golfers, retirees, and resort lifestyle seekers.
Myrtle Beach & Grand Strand
Known for: 60 miles of beaches, tourism economy, golf courses, entertainment. Myrtle Beach offers condo living and tourist attractions. North Myrtle Beach provides more residential feel. Extremely affordable for coastal living. Strong retiree presence from Northeast. Appeals to beach lovers seeking value and those in tourism/hospitality industries.
Compare South Carolina Living Costs
Use our comprehensive calculator to compare housing, food, transportation, and other living expenses between South Carolina ZIP codes or against other states.
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