8 Best Places to Retire in South Carolina in 2022

8 Best Places to Retire in South Carolina

Thinking about where to retire in South Carolina? We will help you find the answers and your preferences! The number of reasons can be endless. Let’s track down some of them and find out why so...

Located in the southeastern United States, South Carolina has a mild, pleasant climate all year round. Spring brings the entire State to bloom and turns the historic plantations along the coast into a spectacle not to be missed! Summer is all about the beaches, autumn is perfect for mountain adventures, and winter is never too severe - perfect for sightseeing or a round of golf. Moreover, the retirement communities in South Carolina near the water are full of different activities that will make your days brighter!

Benefits of retiring in South Carolina 2022

The “golden years” of retirement are often characterized by leisure activities like golfing, fishing and gardening; spending time with family, and enjoying the little things in life like sunsets and relaxing in a hammock. Among the pros and cons of retiring in South Carolina, benefits always seem to win the battle.

  • South Carolina offers some of the most prestigious beaches
  • Incredible golf retirement communities
  • Low retirement taxes and low cost of living
  • Amazing parks and plantation mansions
  • Historic sites and the best theme parks in the entire country
  • Incredible beachfront retirement communities
  • Magnificent botanical gardens
  • Whatever the season, there's always something new to discover
  • Breathtaking mountains & beaches to enjoy
  • Fascinating retirement communities

Still thinking why retire in South Carolina?

Questions to take into account when choosing the best retirement communities in South Carolina

  • How much is the average rent?
  • How much are the living costs?
  • How good is the climate?
  • How secure is the area?
  • How quickly can you get to the main city areas by car or public transportation?
  • How much are the taxes?

Best places to retire in South Carolina in 2022

It is significantly hard to narrow down great places to retire in South Carolina as nearly all of the areas rank towards the top. Nevertheless, it’s worth bringing up some of the top places people mostly love.

  1. Summerville - Coastal region
  2. Isle of Palms - Coastal region
  3. Georgetown - Coastal region
  4. North Charleston - Coastal region
  5. Hanahan - Coastal region
  6. Greenville - Mountains region
  7. Travelers Rest - Mountains region
  8. West Columbia - Midlands region

When it comes to choosing a place for retirement everyone wants to get lucky and make the best choice. There are so many places and so many things to take into consideration. Talking about this beautiful state has never been enough because there is so much to uncover about the best places to retire in South Carolina in 2022.

1. Summerville

Summerville street
Photo credit: lennar.com

About Summerville

Summerville is one of the best places to live in South Carolina for retirees. This scenic town is also called the “Flower Town in the Pines” because of its lovely public parks and preserved vintage houses and gardens. A portion of the town, which is home to 700 structures constructed during the late 1800s, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Summerville is where modern comfort meets old-school charm. Definitely one of the best places to live in Charleston, SC if you’re looking for a quiet place at the center of everything! Summerville is a good place to retire in South Carolina from every perspective.

Area: 19.85 sq mi (51.40 km2)
Population: 53,037
Zip Codes: 29483 294
Elevation: 48 ft above sea level
Website: Summerville SC

Real Estate in Summerville

Real Estate reach outs are increasing in Summerville South Carolina as many people realize that is one of the best retirement areas in South Carolina. Matt O’Neill Real Estate knows the area best and will be happy to assist you in finding a great suit for you.

Median home cost: $216,600
Home appreciation for the last 10 years has been 6.9%.

Things to do

  • Great shopping centers
  • Sightseeing
  • Different communities and networking
  • Historical sites
  • Museums and Libraries
  • Farmer’s Markets
  • Outdoor Recreation

Costs of living in Summerville

Compared to the rest of the country, Summerville's cost of living is 0.4% lower than the U.S. average. Still looking for places to retire in South Carolina?
Summerville among other amazing places to live in Charleston is indeed a must consideration.

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

Summerville  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

99.6

88.5

100

Grocery

99.9

95.8

100

Health

98.4

102.3

100

Housing

93.7

73.6

100

Median Home Cost  

$216,600

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

107.6

103.9

100

Transportation

104.4

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

101.1

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in Summerville

2. Isle of Palms

Isle-of-Palms-SC-Charleston
Photo credit: drhorton.com

About Isle of Palms

Ever thought of a beautiful sunny place to retire? If yes, then one of your first choices might be Isle of palms which is a magnificent city in South Carolina. Probably one of the best retirement communities in South Carolina full of amazing things to do and so much unveil! Bordered by pristine beaches and a network of marsh creeks, the barrier island of Isle of Palms has been a vacation spot since the late 19th century when it was only accessible by ferry. In 1929, a bridge was built, which opened up the island to more than just local residents. Discover the beauty that is only a 20-min drive from Charleston. Isle of Palms is indeed among the amazing coastal towns to retire in South Carolina.

Area: 5.44 sq mi (14.08 km2)
Population: 4,333
Zip Code: 29451
Elevation: 48 ft above sea level
Website: Isle of Palms SC

Real Estate in Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is an affluent community made up of vacation homes and year-round residents. It has become one of the best cities to retire in South Carolina due to its beautiful houses and neighborhoods. The city offers residents a peaceful reprieve and a small-town environment. Furthermore, if you are a swimmer at heart then Isle of Palms is among the best places to retire in South Carolina near the beach.

Median home cost: $806,100
Home appreciation for the last 10 years has been 8.6%.

Things to do

Besides boasting one of Charleston's most beautiful beaches, Isle of Palms has plenty more to entertain.

  • Parks and a variety of shopping centers
  • Restaurants in all styles
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing and sailing
  • Boating and fishing
  • Golf - if you are golf loves you will love the golf courses on Isle of Palms
  • Tennis - clay and hard court surfaces available

Costs of living in Isle of Palms

Compared to the rest of the country, the Isle of Palms is above the average living costs.

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

Isle of Palms  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

179.2

88.5

100

Grocery

112.5

95.8

100

Health

98.1

102.3

100

Housing

348.7

73.6

100

Median Home Cost  

$806,100

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

107.2

103.9

100

Transportation

101.9

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

104.3

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in Isle of Palms

3. Georgetown

discover Georgetown
Photo credit: georgetownsc.gov

About Georgetown

Few other areas in America contain more history or charm than Georgetown, South Carolina. From its earliest beginnings as the probable site of the first European settlement in North America in 1526 to its present status as a vibrant and gracious city of 9,000, Georgetown has long been known for its warm hospitality and Southern charm. The sites and the history that is filled inside the city make you want to spend an entire life there. It is indeed one of the good places to retire in South Carolina if you are the type of person that loves historical neighborhoods and the atmosphere.

Area: 19.66 km² (18.1 km²)
Population: 8,960
Zip Code: 29440
Elevation: 5.49 m
Website: Georgetown_SC

Real Estate in Georgetown

Getting a home in Georgetown is easier when you have an experienced real estate agency. Houses in Georgetown are beautiful and the neighborhoods have everything you will need! Compared to other towns Georgetown is definitely one of the most affordable places to retire in South Carolina.
The typical home value of homes in Georgetown is $168,152. This value is seasonally adjusted and only includes the middle price tier of homes. Georgetown home values have gone up 5.1% over the past year.

Things to do

  • Parks and a variety of shopping centers
  • Restaurants in all styles
  • Boating and fishing
  • Museums
  • Classes and workshops

Costs of living in Georgetown

Compared to the rest of the country, Georgetown is below the average living costs. It is 83.2.

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

Georgetown  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

83.2

88.5

100

Grocery

95.5

95.8

100

Health

104.1

102.3

100

Housing

59.6

73.6

100

Median Home Cost   

$137,900

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

102.7

103.9

100

Transportation

77.1

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

99.7

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in Georgetown

4. North Charleston

riverfront park North charleston
The source: charlestoncvb.com

About North Charleston

Dreaming of good retirement locations in South Carolina? One answer might be North Charleston. Being the third-largest city in South Carolina, North Charleston has a ton to showcase. It is home to the Charleston International Airport and is closely situated to key outlying stops on a Charleston adventure like Mount Pleasant, Sullivan's Island, and Summerville.

Area: 209.9 km²
Population: 108,186
Zip Codes: 29406 29405 29418 29420 29404 29423
Elevation: 48 ft above sea level
Website: Charleston_SC

Real Estate in North Charleston

Many people wish to buy a property in North Charleston because of how affordable, comfortable, and adventurous life can be there.

Median home cost: $169,800
Home appreciation for the last 10 years has been 7.6%.

Things to do

Don’t you be surprised! There are plenty of things to do in North Charleston. There is a wide selection of restaurants, entertainment complexes, shopping malls, and specialty shops, not far from any of the local area attractions.

Costs of living in North Charleston

North Charleston's cost of living is 9.6% lower than the U.S. average. Still looking for affordable retirement communities in South Carolina?

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

North Charleston

South Carolina

USA

Overall

90.4

88.5

100

Grocery

97.4

95.8

100

Health

98.1

102.3

100

Housing

73.4

73.6

100

Median Home Cost  

$169,800

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

107

103.9

100

Transportation

86.9

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

104.8

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in North Charleston

5. Hanahan

Hanahan_Church
Photo credit: lennar.com

About Hanahan

Hanahan is among the perfect retirement towns in South Carolina. This is exactly a place where you can spend great days and make amazing memories. Hanahan is located in Berkeley County and is indeed a beauty worth experiencing. Living in Hanahan offers residents a sparse suburban feel. The neighborhood is safe and sound, the schools are highly ranked and there are a vast amount of events and communities to get involved in. Comparing the best towns to retire in South Carolina? No need anymore!

Area: 29.94 km²
Population: 21,729
Zip Code: 29410
Elevation: 16 m

Real Estate in Hanahan

Owning a property in Hanahan is one of the best things you can do. The city offers different types of houses with a very unique charm and welcoming style. Hanahan is one of the most welcoming areas to retire in South Carolina.

Median home cost: $240,500
Home appreciation the last 10 years has been 6.7%

Things to do

This beauty is one of the best cities to retire in South Carolina in terms of local activities and events. Hanahan offers its guests a wide range of fun and memories.

  • Beautiful sites and insight tours
  • Plantations and gardens with heavenly beauty
  • Ecotours
  • Fun parks
  • Outdoor activities

Costs of living in Hanahan

Compared to other cities you might find Hanahan a bit pricey. The cost of average living is 101 which means it is above the US average index which is 100.

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

Hanahan  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

101.1

88.5

100

Grocery

101.2

95.8

100

Health

98.4

102.3

100

Housing

104

73.6

100

Median Home Cost  

$240,500

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

107.5

103.9

100

Transportation

94.4

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

101.8

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in Hanahan

6. Greenville

sunset-greenville
Photo credit: tripadvisor.com

About Greenville

Greenville is a heavenly blessed city famous for its unique style and magnificent beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville, South Carolina offers visitors a unique blend of traditional Southern charm and contemporary cool you won’t find anywhere else.

Area: 77.49 km²
Population: 64,061
Zip Codes: 29607 29609 29601 29614
Elevation: 1040 ft above sea level
Website: Greenville

Real Estate in Greenville

Greenville is a place where everyone wishes to have property. Finding good real estate is a must.

Median Home Price: $187,500
Home appreciation for the last 10 years has been 8.2%.

Things to do

Greenville boasts a thriving arts scene, hundreds of restaurants, shops and boutiques, popular annual festivals, numerous historic sites, and museums housing significant art collections.

  • Tours and rentals
  • Family-friendly activities
  • Arts and crafts
  • Shopping and events
  • Sport and medical amazing facilities
  • Parks full of joy and different activities

Costs of living in Greenville

Greenville's cost of living is 89.8 which means it is below the US average 100. Greenville is one of the affordable places to retire in South Carolina! Do you agree?

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

Greenville  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

89.8

88.5

100

Grocery

99.7

95.8

100

Health

101.4

102.3

100

Housing

81.1

73.6

100

Median Home Cost  

$187,500

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

96.9

103.9

100

Transportation

76.2

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

102.3

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in Greenville

7. Travelers Rest

Place_Marker_Travelers Rest
Photo credit: visitgreenvillesc.com

About Travelers Rest

Situated in the southern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina’s beautiful Upcountry, Travelers Rest is truly a traveler’s haven – named for its natural amenities and proximity to nearby destinations. It has a genuine southern charm, friendly folks, great weather, and world-class outdoor activities.

Area: 16.39 km² (16.14 km² Land / 23 ha Water)
Population: 4,965
Zip Code: 29690
Elevation: 334 m

Real Estate in Travelers Rest

Living in Travelers Rest offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. There is abundant quality housing close to the city, mainly north and east.

Median Home Price: $187,500
Home appreciation for the last 10 years has been 8.2%.

Things to do

Travelers Rest offers a variety of recreation and entertainment options from live theaters around the city, museums, performing arts, and festivities that strengthen cultural awareness. In terms of activities, if not exaggerated, Travelers Rest is among the best places to retire in South Carolina due to its outstanding adult-friendly entertainment options.

Costs of living in Travelers Rest

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

Travelers Rest  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

91.8

88.5

100

Grocery

98.8

95.8

100

Health

101.4

102.3

100

Housing

82.7

73.6

100

Median Home Cost  

$191,300

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

100.9

103.9

100

Transportation

83

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

101.6

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in Travelers Rest

8. West Columbia

Columbia-Canal-and-Riverfront-Park-Columbia
Photo credit: pinterest.com

About West Columbia

West Columbia is located in the eastern portion of Lexington County, along the Congaree and Saluda rivers. It was originally incorporated as the town of Brookland, named because of the large number of clear-water brooks in the area, then later to New Brookland. In 1936 the charter was changed to West Columbia. This riverfront city provides a small-town feel full of wonders.
Area: 9.16 sq mi (23.73 km2)
Population: 17,056
Zip Code: 29169
Elevation: 225 ft above sea level
Website: West Columbia SC

Real Estate in West Columbia

Median home cost: $134,600
Home appreciation for the last 10 years has been 5.5%.

Things to do

West Columbia offers kayaking, canoeing, tubing, parks, waterfront concerts, 8.5 miles of walking and biking trails, and much more, including access to the renowned Riverbanks Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Waterfall Junction.

Costs of living in West Columbia

100=National Average

COST OF LIVING

West Columbia  

South Carolina  

USA

Overall

84.7

88.5

100

Grocery

95.2

95.8

100

Health

107.2

102.3

100

Housing

58.2

73.6

100

Median Home Cost

$134,600

$170,100

$231,200  

Utilities

110.7

103.9

100

Transportation

81.9

86.8

100

Miscellaneous

99.7

95.6

100

Source: Costs of living in West Columbia

Compare the best places to retire in South Carolina

Here are some short infographics of the places we guided you through. Find which one suits your best interests and enjoy your retirement.

Housing
(median price)   

Taxes rate

Cost of Living (out of average 100)

Comfort Index /Climate

Median Income

Crime
US average being 22.7

Unemployment Rate
(U.S. avg. is 3.7%)

Summerville  

$216,600

7%

99,6

7.3/10

$55,290

13.9

2.7%

Isle of Palms 

$806,100

6%

179.2

7.2/10

$79,030

8.0

2.7%

Georgetown

$168,152  

6%

83.2

7.4/10

$26,364

56.9

3.8%

North Charleston

$169,800

9%

90.4

7.2/10

$39,446  

40.6

3.0%

Hanahan

$240,500

6%

101.1

7.2/10

$49,871

18.4

2.9%

Greenville

$187,500

6%

89.8

7.5/10

$41,147

36.2

2.6%

Travelers Rest

$187,500

6%

91.8

7.5/10

$51,066

12.7

2.8%

West Columbia

$134,600

6%

84.7

7.2/10

$40,931

45.1

2.7%

List of other good places to retire in South Carolina

Don’t even think that the shortlist was enough to describe and mention South Carolina’s uniqueness. Let’s dive in more and discover more places to retire in South Carolina in 2022. The South Carolina Real Estate experts at Matt O’Neil Real Estate Agency will help you find the best place to retire in South Carolina for you - one that suits your wishes and budget. You can also find the best lakes to retire in South Carolina if you are more into nature, lakes, and coastal towns.

Track down more...

Awendaw

Mcclellanville

Cainhoy

Meggett

Daniel Island   

Moncks Corner

Edisto Island

Mount Pleasant

Folly Beach

Ravenell

Goose Creek

Seabrook Island   

Hollywood

Sullivans Island

James Island

Wadmalaw

Johns Island

Wando

Kiawah

Wild Dunes

Ladson

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