19 Excellent Places To Live In South Carolina

Five Forks is nested deep within Greenville County and carries a population of 19,93 and a lot going for it. Most people here earn more than $115,050 per year, and the average home value stands at $508,000 according to Realtor, making it an affordable place to live.

This place is constantly developing, offering new options for residents. It boasts excellent public schools, parks, and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for raising families.

Charleston is one of the most significant economic hubs and tourism areas with an approximate population of 151,612 and an average home price of $541,040. Numerous types of apartments are available in this city which also be great options for small families.

Most people have an attractive median household income of $76,556 per year, one of the highest in the state. Also, the coastal city offers numerous walking tours, visits to museums, and also the vibrant nightlife for college students and young professionals to enjoy.

Myrtle Beach is one of the most affordable South Carolina coastal towns and has an encouraging job sector for year-round residents. People generate a median household income of around $45,701 per year, whereas the average home price is $301,950.

Additionally, It is a tourist city with approximately 12 to 20 million visitors coming every year seeking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this place. Also, young professionals, growing families, and empty nesters set down roots here and enjoy the area's relatively lower cost of living.

With a population of around 72,095, this place has a promising job market, plenty of outdoor activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Despite its largest city upstate, you can still enjoy the slower pace of a mid-size town.

Residents here earn a median household income of $60,388 a year, whereas the average home price is around $300,000. Also, the unemployment rate, which is 2.9%, seems to be lower compared to other places, as influential employers in the area include BMW, Lockheed, General Electric, and IBM.

South Carolina's capital city, Columbia sits in the state center and is roughly 3 hours from the sandy beaches and less than 2 hours from Upcountry. The area is the second-largest metro area and is home to the University of South Carolina and Fort Jackson Army Base.

This place boasts a population of around 137,541 and has homes with an average home price of $300,000 with several housing options. The median income of the household here is $48,791 per year. When it comes to the unemployment rate, it is 3.1%, which is lower than in other cities in South Carolina.

It is a thriving and affordable suburb approximately 30 minutes outside of Charleston. While this city is within commuting distance, local employers include Google, Mercedez Benz, Volvo, Bioscience, and Logistics.

The median household income here is $73,712 a year and has estimated monthly expenses of around $6,626. The average house price is around $345,000, according to Redfin, which is lower than that of the other places, making it an affordable place to live in.

If you are seeking a place to live in the side of Charlotte in South Carolina, then Rock Hill is an excellent option to consider. It is the largest city in York County where you can enjoy lower cost of living and reasonable state taxes.

The median value of the homes here is $350,000, whereas the income tends to be an average of $51,874 per year. The city has a population of about 74,102 people, and due to lower unemployment rates, people can accommodate their low cost of living with a stable job and handsome income.

Blufftown is one of the best places to live in South Carolina for families. The area has a lower crime rate, and you can avoid the herd of tourists who typically go to Myrtle Beach or Charleston.

While it is not being fully commercialized to its best, it is easy for relaxation to settle down here. The area boasts a population of as few as 31,191 people, and the home price here is $499,000, which is its median value. The average income is estimated at around $85,844 per year, whereas the unemployment rate is just near 3%.

Amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains, Spartanburg is a pleasant place to live in and is home to seven colleges and universities while being a suitable place to raise a family. 

In addition to its education sector, other employment sectors include Adidas America and the automotive industry. With a population of around 38,401, the median household income of this city sits at around $45,228, and just 3.2% are unemployed. You can buy homes here at a median value of $249,000, comparatively lower than Bluffton.

One of the referable best small towns in South Carolina has to be Clemson. It offers several amenities which belong to bigger cities and is home to Clemson University. 

The university is a national leader in college athletics, and the residents here can also see many art productions and performances on campus and explore the South Carolina Botanical Gardens. The town also offers a mild climate with a population of about 17,986 people living here. The key industries here in Clemson are education, healthcare, and the manufacturing industries.

This medium-sized city is another affordable place near the center of the state and is nearer to Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Charleston, which have higher housing costs. 

Employment hubs include advanced manufacturing, aviation, data centers, food processing, and medical devices. The population is around 42,976 people and has an average home price of $179,815 as per the data available on Zillow. Families here earn $40,760 approximately per year.

This city lives up to its name as one of the most pleasant places to live in South Carolina. It is a great workplace to live in for young professionals due to its vigorous job market with many commuting options to choose from.

Second, families living here are mostly young and friendly, and the public school system is impressive. You also find some wonderful amenities to see for yourself, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping centers spread along the different types of properties.

This laid-back suburb sits next to Columbia with a total population of around 10,560 people, and still growing. The area is known for its family-friendly vibes, which is why many couples decide to move in and raise their kids here.

The crime rate is very low compared to other places, the median salary is slightly high, and most of the population is highly literate, making them an all-around option for millennials looking to purchase homes here in this beautiful suburb.

This South Carolina suburban haven of 13,200 residents, beckons with its peaceful atmosphere and economic strength. This charming community boasts low crime rates, likely due to its smaller size. Its residents enjoy a strong economy, with many earning six-figure salaries.

Tega Cay fosters a welcoming and diverse environment, making it ideal for families. While the cost of living is moderate, with rents reaching $1,300, the potential for a fulfilling life here is undeniable.

Lexington makes it on the list with its diverse and friendly communities, affordable housing, and the different trails you can take to help pass the time during your free time. 

Located close to the mountains, it is a blessing in disguise because of its stunning look and feel. Also, It is an affordable place to relocate since the average home value rests around the $310,000 mark, and you can find something cheaper than the price here.

Located between Charleston and the Atlantic coast, Hanahan offers families a vibrant yet relaxed lifestyle. Spanning just 8.5 square miles and boasting a population of around 23,000, it exudes small-town charm with big-city access.

The booming local economy, fueled by Boeing and the Charleston International Airport, ensures diverse job opportunities. Excellent public schools and a strong sense of community further solidify Hanahan's appeal. Whether seeking coastal adventures, cultural outings in Charleston, or a close-knit community, Hanahan provides a nurturing environment for families to thrive.

One of the rural places on this list, Blythewood has a lot of large plots of land with detachable houses. Boasting a mere 8.8 square miles and a population of around 5,000, this charming town prioritizes peaceful living. Top-rated schools, like Blythewood High, attract families seeking academic excellence.

While the local economy leans towards service industries, its proximity to Columbia ensures access to diverse job opportunities. Beyond academics, families can explore nature at Dreher Island State Park, catch a local film festival, or cheer on the University of South Carolina's equestrian team at One Wood Farm.

Founded in 1785, Newberry boasts a well-preserved historic downtown district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants line the streets, and many houses in beautifully restored 19th-century buildings.

With a population of around 10,000, Newberry offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community. Also, the crime rate is low, the public school system is top-tier, and the economy is as stable as they come making it a good appeal for raising a family.

Nestled between Myrtle Beach's excitement and the peace of rural Horry County, Conway, South Carolina, offers a sweet spot for families. This historic town (18.5 square miles, 22,800 residents) boasts a thriving, diverse economy anchored by tourism, healthcare, and education.

Beyond the beach, families enjoy the scenic Riverwalk, festivals, and a charming downtown. Top-rated public schools and a strong sense of community create a nurturing environment. Affordable housing options like historic bungalows to modern subdivisions, cater to various lifestyles. Whether your family craves outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or small-town charm, Conway delivers.