Top LOOKS for South Carolina
Moving to South Carolina: What It’s Like to Live in the Palmetto State
South Carolina has become one of the Southeast’s biggest draws for a compelling combination of affordability and a warm, beautiful, relaxed pace of life. People come for the weather and beaches, but they stay for the charm of the smaller cities and a growing economy.
The state attracts retirees and remote workers as much as families and professionals. Charleston remains the cultural center, Greenville the economic standout, and Columbia the government and education hub. Together, they form a state that balances progress and tradition better than most.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, South Carolina added nearly 90,000 new residents in 2023, keeping it among the top ten fastest-growing states in the country. Many new arrivals come from the Northeast and Midwest, drawn by lower costs and an easier lifestyle.
Cost of Living in South Carolina
South Carolina’s affordability is one of its biggest strengths. Housing, utilities, and taxes are all below the national average, while access to beaches and outdoor recreation adds significant lifestyle value.
- Home prices: The statewide median home price is about $315,000, with Charleston averaging $480,000, Greenville around $370,000, and Columbia and Florence below $280,000.
- Rent: The average one-bedroom apartment rents for about $1,300 statewide, ranging from $1,600 in Charleston to $1,100 in Columbia or Greenville.
- Taxes: Property taxes are among the lowest in the U.S.; the income tax tops out at 6.5% but scales gently.
- Utilities: Moderate, with low heating costs offset by warm, humid summers.
- Groceries and healthcare: Slightly below national averages.
Overall, South Carolina delivers strong value — especially for families or retirees looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing lifestyle.
TL;DR: South Carolina Regions at a Glance
Region--------------------What Works--------------------------Good Fit For
Charleston & Coastal--------Culture, history, scenery----------------Retirees, creatives, remote workers
Greenville & Upstate--------Jobs, affordability, downtown charm-----Families, professionals
Columbia & Midlands--------Central location, schools, affordability----State workers, students
Pee Dee & Florence Area----Value, community feel------------------First-time buyers, retirees
Hilton Head & Beaufort------Coastal beauty, strong communities-----Retirees, second-home buyers
Where in South Carolina Should You Live?
Charleston & the Coastal Lowcountry
Charleston blends Southern architecture and a creative economy. From historic downtown to Mount Pleasant and Summerville, it’s one of the most desirable places to live in the Southeast.
What Works: Cultural richness, coastal living, and a strong dining scene.
Watch Out For: Flooding, hurricanes, and rising home prices.
Greenville & the Upstate
Greenville has quietly become South Carolina’s most dynamic small city. Its revitalized downtown, growing job market, and proximity to the mountains make it one of the best mid-sized cities in the South.
What Works: Affordability, walkability, and job access.
Watch Out For: Limited transit and rapid suburban sprawl.
Columbia & the Midlands
Columbia anchors the state’s center — home to the University of South Carolina, major hospitals, and the state government. It offers stability and affordability, with a mix of historic neighborhoods and new development.
What Works: Central location, affordability, and steady employment.
Watch Out For: Summer heat and slower pace.
Pee Dee & Florence Area
This region offers small-town living, community ties, and the lowest cost of housing in the state. Growth has been modest, but for those seeking space and simplicity, it’s a solid option.
What Works: Value, friendly communities, and low cost of living.
Watch Out For: Limited jobs and cultural amenities.
Hilton Head & Beaufort
Hilton Head and Beaufort deliver a slower, scenic coastal lifestyle. They’re popular with retirees and remote workers seeking quiet, well-kept communities near beaches and golf courses.
What Works: Beauty, pace, and quality of life.
Watch Out For: High prices and seasonal tourism.
Best Cities in South Carolina to Consider
Charleston
Historic, coastal, and full of life.
Greenville
Walkable, affordable, and growing fast.
Columbia
Central, stable, and educational hub.
Hilton Head Island
Refined, scenic, and retirement-friendly.
Beaufort
Artistic, quiet, and historic.
Summerville
Family-oriented, suburban, and affordable.
Florence
Accessible, affordable, and community-centered.
Is South Carolina Right for You?
South Carolina is for people who value balance, reasonable cost, in a pleasant climate, culturally interesting package. It’s not without its challenges (heat, hurricanes, and slower infrastructure), but for most, the upside far outweighs the drawbacks.
Whether you’re after coastal charm or mountain calm, South Carolina makes it easy to feel at home.
FAQs About Living in South Carolina
Q: Is South Carolina affordable?
A: Yes — it ranks among the ten most affordable states in the U.S.
Q: What are the safest cities?
A: Mount Pleasant, Bluffton, and Tega Cay often rank among the safest.
Q: How’s the job market?
A: Growing steadily, especially in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism.
Q: Do I need a car?
A: Yes. Transit is limited outside Charleston and Columbia.
Q: What’s the weather like?
A: Hot summers, mild winters, and humidity near the coast.
Q: Are hurricanes a concern?
A: Yes, along the coast. Inland areas like Greenville and Columbia are less affected.
Ready to Find Your South Carolina Fit?
From Charleston’s cobblestone streets to Greenville’s mountain views, South Carolina blends charm and opportunity.
- Take the LookyLOO Quiz to find your best-fit South Carolina cities and save them in your Movebook.