Greenville and Lexington are among the best places to live in South Carolina in 2025. The state has 124,000 new job openings. Plus, with a cost of living 6% below the national average, South Carolina is the smart choice for workers and money-smart people.
It also boasts some of the lowest property taxes in the country, affordable housing, and no shortage of sunshine or beach towns. From young professionals in Greenville to retirees soaking up the coastal breeze in Myrtle Beach, there’s a perfect fit for every lifestyle.
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Best Places to Live in South Carolina in 2025
Here’s our ranking of the best South Carolina cities to live in. We’ve considered the community well-being score, median home price, monthly income, and the cost of living of the cities.
| # City | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Livability Score (out of 100) | Changes in Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Greenville | $325,735 | $98,535 | 5.4% ⬇️ | 82 | ⬆️ 4 |
| 2. Lexington | $303,247 | $85,806 | 3.7% ⬇️ | 79 | ⬆️ 8 |
| 3. Hilton Head Island | $764,829 | $120,887 | 3.4% ⬇️ | 63 | ⬆️ 5 |
| 4. Spartanburg | $228,853 | $57,381 | 9.9% ⬇️ | 75 | ⬆️ 5 |
| 5. Myrtle Beach | $324,747 | $66,880 | 3.9% ⬇️ | 67 | ⬇️ 2 |
| 6. Rock Hill | $332,963 | $79,736 | 4.2% ⬇️ | 69 | ⬆️ 1 |
| 7. Columbia | $224,616 | $78,454 | 3.6% ⬇️ | 79 | ⬇️ 5 |
| 8. Charleston | $588,916 | $117,849 | 4.9% ⬆️ | 77 | ⬇️ 7 |
| 9. Mount Pleasant | $876,150 | $145,770 | 4.9% ⬆️ | 71 | ⬇️ 3 |
| 10. Summerville | $386,004 | $95,842 | 4.5% ⬆️ | 61 | ⬇️ 6 |
10 Best Cities to Live in South Carolina
Here’s our list of the best areas in South Carolina to live:
Greenville, SC, is a vibrant city that combines a thriving downtown with a growing job market, making it the best place to live in South Carolina for young professionals. The city offers a good balance of career opportunities in manufacturing, education, and healthcare, alongside a lively social community and outdoor amenities that attract an active, ambitious crowd.
- Cost of Living in Greenville, SC: The cost of living is about 5.4% below the national average. To live comfortably here, you will need a minimum annual income of $98,535 per year.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Greenville for around $325,735. Renting a similar apartment ranges between $400 – $7,000 per month, depending on the neighborhood.
- Job Market: Key employment sectors include manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with over 37% of the residents employed. Major employers such as Fluor Corporation and Prisma Health provide steady jobs, while the city’s expanding startup ecosystem offers additional opportunities.
- Outdoor Activities: Greenville boasts access to outdoor spaces like Falls Park on the Reedy and the Swamp Rabbit Trail, popular for walking, running, and biking, which helps balance work-life needs.
- Limited Public Transit: The city’s bus system has limited routes and schedules, making car ownership almost necessary.
- Hot and Humid Summers: Summers can be uncomfortable for those sensitive to heat and humidity common in the Southeast.
- Rising Housing Costs: While still affordable, home prices and rents have been increasing as demand grows, potentially limiting options for newcomers.
Lexington, SC, is a thriving suburb just west of Columbia, known for its strong community spirit and excellent family amenities. Top-rated schools like Lexington Elementary and River Bluff High make this area ideal for families. Plus, safe neighborhoods such as Lake Murray Pointe and Red Bank add to its appeal. This combination makes it the best city to live in South Carolina for families.
- Cost of Living in Lexington, SC: About 3.7% below the national average. You will need around $85,806 annually to cover all expenses comfortably in Lexington.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Lexington for around $303,247. Renting a 2-bedroom house typically costs between $665 – $5,000 monthly.
- Job Market: Many residents work in nearby Columbia’s education and healthcare sectors. Plus, major employers like Lexington Medical Center and Lexington County School District provide stable job opportunities in the city.
- Outdoor Activities: Families enjoy Lake Murray’s easy access for boating and fishing, while parks like Eva Russell Chandler and Doko Meadows offer playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields. Annual events such as the Lexington Peach Festival bring the community together.
- School Overcrowding: Some schools, including Lexington Middle and River Bluff High, face increasing class sizes due to rapid growth, which may affect student-to-teacher ratios.
- Limited Public Transit: The Greenway Bus service exists but is limited, so most families rely on cars for daily travel.
- Summer Heat & Humidity: The area experiences hot, humid summers with highs often exceeding 90°F, which can limit outdoor play during peak afternoons.
- Traffic Bottlenecks: Routes like Augusta Highway (SC-302) and Sunset Boulevard see heavy congestion during rush hours, especially for commuters heading into Columbia.
Located on the southern tip of South Carolina, Hilton Head Island offers a peaceful, coastal environment that’s ideal for retirees. The city is home to several 55+ communities like Sun City Hilton Head, making it the best place in South Carolina to live for retirees. Plus, with top-notch healthcare facilities nearby in Bluffton and Savannah, it’s got everything retirees need—peace, community, and care.
- Cost of Living in Hilton Head Island, SC: The cost of living is about 3.4% higher than the national average. You’ll need a minimum annual income of $120,887 to live comfortably here.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Hilton Head Island for around $764,829. Rent for a 2-bedroom unit ranges from $1,350 – $33,000 per month, depending on proximity to the beach and amenities.
- Job Market: While retirees aren’t typically looking for full-time jobs, the island offers part-time and seasonal roles in hospitality, retail, and golf services. Healthcare and home services are also major employment sectors.
- Outdoor Activities: With over 12 miles of beaches, more than 20 golf courses, and extensive biking trails, Hilton Head Island is ideal for active retirees. The island also hosts year-round farmers markets, art festivals, and live jazz nights.
- Hurricane Risk: Being a coastal barrier island, Hilton Head is vulnerable during hurricane season, which may require occasional evacuation planning.
- High Housing Costs: Real estate prices are significantly above the national average, especially for waterfront properties.
- Seasonal Congestion: Tourist influxes in spring and summer can cause traffic congestion and longer wait times at restaurants and stores.
Spartanburg is one of the best places to live in South Carolina for young adults. It has affordable living and a growing job market, with major employers like BMW and Spartanburg Regional. Plus, downtown is walkable and filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and coworking spaces. It’s a great place to grow your career without the high cost of a big city.
- Cost of Living in Spartanburg, SC: Spartanburg is 3.4% cheaper than the national average, making it one of the most affordable cities in Upstate South Carolina. You’ll need a minimum annual income of $57,381 to live comfortably here.
- Housing: You can buy 2-bedroom home in Spartanburg for around $228,853. If you want to rent a similar property, expect to pay between $652 – $2,535/month, depending on proximity to downtown and newer developments like Drayton Mills Lofts.
- Job Market: BMW’s Greer plant is a major employer, supporting a booming auto manufacturing ecosystem. Plus, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System and Wofford College also offer strong career options in healthcare and education.
- Outdoor Activities: On weekends, you can catch live music or join trivia nights at Fr8yard. If you enjoy art, check out the shows and performances at the Chapman Cultural Center. And when you want to get outside, the Mary Black Rail Trail and Cottonwood Trail are great spots for hiking and biking.
- Limited Public Transit: SPARTA buses run on fixed routes but don’t cover all neighborhoods frequently. Most residents rely on a personal car.
- Patchy Development: While areas like the East Side and downtown are thriving, west Spartanburg and parts of North Pine still lack consistent infrastructure and amenities.
- Hot Summers: Spartanburg summers are humid and routinely hit the low-to-mid 90s. Air conditioning isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Myrtle Beach is a retiree-friendly coastal city known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and an abundance of 55+ communities such as The Fountains and Brookdale Myrtle Beach. Plus, plenty of healthcare facilities and recreational options for seniors make it one of the best places to live in South Carolina for retirees.
- Cost of Living in Myrtle Beach, SC: The cost of living is 3.9% lower than the national average, making it more affordable for retirees on fixed incomes. To live comfortably, you’d need an estimated annual income of around $66,880.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Myrtle Beach for around $324,747. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment ranges between $380 – $3,750 per month, depending on proximity to the ocean.
- Job Market: While Myrtle Beach’s economy relies heavily on tourism and hospitality, healthcare is growing with major employers like Grand Strand Medical Center and Tidelands Health providing jobs, including many in senior care.
- Outdoor Activities: Myrtle Beach offers easy access to golf courses, walking trails, and beachside parks. Retirees can enjoy fishing, boating, and mild winters, perfect for year-round outdoor activities.
- Seasonal Crowds and Traffic: Myrtle Beach attracts a high volume of tourists during the warmer months, which can cause traffic congestion and crowded public spaces.
- Hurricane Risk: Located on the Atlantic coast, Myrtle Beach is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can disrupt life during hurricane season.
- Humidity and Heat: Summers are hot and humid, which may be uncomfortable for those sensitive to heat or with respiratory conditions.
Rock Hill offers the perks of suburban living with easy access to city life, making it ideal for families. Neighborhoods like Millwood Plantation and Laurel Creek are known for safe streets, roomy homes, and strong schools like Northwestern High. This combination makes it one of the best towns to live in South Carolina for families.
- Cost of Living in Rock Hill, SC: Living here is about 4.2% cheaper than the national average. A family of four needs roughly $79,736 per year for basic comfort.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Rock Hill for around $332,963. Renting a similar-sized home costs between $695 – $3,500/month, depending on proximity to downtown or the I-77 corridor.
- Job Market: Education and healthcare are the backbone of Rock Hill’s job scene. Major employers include Winthrop University, Piedmont Medical Center, and Rock Hill School District Three. Tech and manufacturing firms like 3D Systems and Atlas Copco are growing steadily.
- Outdoor Activities: Families spend weekends at Cherry Park, Manchester Meadows, and along the Riverwalk on the Catawba River, offering trails, kayak access, and playgrounds. The Rock Hill BMX Supercross Track and Giordana Velodrome are unique draws for active kids and teens.
- Patchy Public Transit: The My Ride Rock Hill bus service is clean and free, but it’s limited in coverage and frequency. Most families depend on cars for errands and school runs.
- Allergy Season is Real: Spring brings heavy pollen from surrounding pine and oak trees—something to consider if anyone in the family has asthma or allergies.
- Uneven School Zoning: While schools like Mount Gallant Elementary and Northwestern High perform well, others in the district vary in quality. Be sure to check specific school zones before choosing a neighborhood.
Home to the University of South Carolina, Columbia is one of the top cities for young professionals. It offers a mix of career opportunities and a vibrant social life. Popular neighborhoods like Five Points and The Vista are full of new restaurants, breweries, and coworking spaces. With a growing tech job market, Columbia stands out as one of the best places in South Carolina to live for young adults.
- Cost of Living in Columbia, SC: Columbia’s cost of living sits about 3.6% below the national average, which means your paycheck stretches further here than in many comparable cities. A comfortable lifestyle usually requires around $78,454 annually.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Columbia for about $224,616. Renting a similar apartment downtown will cost between $550 – $24,760 monthly, depending on the nearby amenities.
- Job Market: The University of South Carolina is one of Columbia’s largest employers, alongside Prisma Health and the state government, offering stable jobs. Plus, the city’s startup ecosystem in tech and creative industries makes it one of the best places to live in South Carolina for Young Professionals.
- Outdoor Activities: The Congaree River and nearby Riverbanks Zoo & Garden provide regular weekend escapes. While Columbia’s Three Rivers Greenway offers scenic running and biking trails right within city limits. For nightlife and dining, Five Points and The Vista are packed with craft breweries, live music venues, and trendy eateries favored by locals.
- Traffic Problems: Rush hour in Columbia can be really slow, especially on I-20 and busy streets like Assembly Street. This can make commutes much longer.
- Hot, Humid Summers: Summers in Columbia are very hot and sticky, with high humidity that makes it feel even hotter. Afternoon thunderstorms are also common.
Charleston is one of the best places to live in South Carolina for young adults, thanks to its expanding job market in aerospace, tech, and healthcare. Major employers like Boeing, MUSC, and Blackbaud drive career growth. Plus, neighborhoods like Mount Pleasant and South of Broad are known for their great restaurants, coworking spots, and active social scene.
- Cost of Living in Charleston, SC: The cost of living is about 4.9% higher than the national average, largely driven by housing prices. To live comfortably, you will need a minimum annual income of around $117,849.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Charleston typically costs around $588,916. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment ranges from $800 – $15,000 per month, depending on location and amenities.
- Job Market: Charleston has a strong job market in aerospace, tech, and tourism, with major employers like Boeing, MUSC, and the College of Charleston. It offers plenty of roles in engineering, software, healthcare, and hospitality.
- Outdoor Activities: Charleston’s waterfront parks, nearby beaches like Folly Beach, and the historic downtown area offer plenty of outdoor and cultural activities. Kayaking, sailing, and biking are popular among residents, along with frequent festivals and live music events downtown.
- Traffic Congestion: Traffic can be heavy, especially on the Ravenel Bridge and main roads like King Street during rush hours, making commutes longer.
- High Housing Costs: Housing prices and rents are rising quickly, which can be challenging for young professionals on a tight budget.
- Summer Heat and Humidity: Summers are hot and humid, often feeling hotter than the temperature due to high humidity. Thunderstorms are common in the afternoon.
If you’re looking for the best places to live in South Carolina for families, Mount Pleasant deserves a top spot on your list. You’ll find top-rated schools like Wando High, safe neighborhoods like Park West and Belle Hall, and plenty to do—from Shem Creek strolls to beach days at Isle of Palms. Plus, it’s just a quick drive over the Ravenel Bridge to Charleston.
- Cost of Living in Mount Pleasant, SC: The cost of living is 4.9% higher than the national average. You’ll need an annual income of at least $145,770 to live comfortably here.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Mount Pleasant for around $876,150. Renting a similar home would cost you around $1,484 – $16,000 per month.
- Job Market: The local economy is driven by education, healthcare, and retail. Major employers include Roper St. Francis Healthcare and Charleston County School District. Additionally, Remote work is also a popular job option here.
- Outdoor Activities: Mount Pleasant offers easy access to beaches like Isle of Palms, waterfront parks like Shem Creek Park, and miles of walking and biking trails. Families enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and weekend outings to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.
- High Housing Prices: Home prices are significantly above the national average, which may be a barrier for buyers on a tight budget.
- Limited Public Transport: While CARTA provides some bus routes, most residents rely on personal vehicles.
- Humidity and Hurricanes: Summers are hot and humid, and the area is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, requiring annual preparedness.
Summerville is a charming town located 30 minutes from Charleston, with easy access to healthcare and recreational activities. Retirement communities like The Blake and Harmony offer both assisted and independent living. Its relaxed pace and walkable downtown make it perfect for retirees seeking a peaceful, convenient lifestyle.
- Cost of Living in Summerville, SC: The cost of living is about 4.5% higher than the national average. You’ll need an annual income of at least $95,842 to live comfortably in Summerville.
- Housing: You can buy a 2-bedroom home in Summerville for around $386,004. Rent for a similar home ranges between $650 – $4,450 per month.
- Job Market: While Summerville isn’t a major job hub, the healthcare sector plays a vital role in the local economy. Summerville Medical Center and nearby Trident Medical Center employ hundreds of residents.
- Outdoor Activities: The town offers easy access to parks, golf courses, and nature trails. Azalea Park and the Sawmill Branch Trail are popular for walking and biking. Retirees can also enjoy local farmers’ markets, cultural events, and day trips to nearby beaches.
- Hot and Humid Summers: July and August often see temperatures in the 90s with high humidity.
- Flood Risk: Some areas of Summerville are prone to flooding, especially during hurricane season.
Best Places to Live in South Carolina Based on Demographics
We have researched the best places to live in South Carolina for families, young professionals, and retirees. The cities are ranked on parameters like education, employment opportunities, and healthcare facilities.
| Demographic | #1 | #2 | #3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Families | Lexington | Rock Hill | Mount Pleasant |
| Young Professionals | Greenville | Spartanburg | Columbia |
| Retirees | Hilton Head Island | Myrtle Beach | Summerville |
Is South Carolina a Good Place to Live?
South Carolina is one of the best places to live in the US due to its low cost of living and pleasant weather. Also, agribusiness, aerospace, automotive, technology, and manufacturing are fast-growing industries in the state.
Whether you’re drawn to the coastal charm of Charleston or the fast-growing tech scene of Greenville, South Carolina offers diverse lifestyles. Explore listings, compare prices, and make offers online with just a few clicks on Houzeo, South Carolina’s best home buying website.
Research Methodology
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best areas to live in South Carolina:
- Zillow[1]: Average Rent, Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Median Income, Unemployment Rate
- Salary[3]: Cost of Living
- Areavibes[4]: Livability Score, Safety Score
- Bestplaces[5]: Average Commute
- Statisticalatlas[6]: Major Employers
- Walkscore[7]: Walkability Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: median house price (1.25), median income (1.25), unemployment rate (1.00), cost of living (1.00), livability score (0.50).
Additionally, we have listed the good places to live in South Carolina for varying demographics. These include the best cities in South Carolina to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
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