Thinking of moving to South Carolina? You’re not alone! The state is third in Forbes’s list of the top states people are moving to, and it’s easy to see why. The Palmetto State has a lot to offer, from the sandy beaches of the Grand Strand to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, a rich history dating back to Colonial times, and friendly locals happy to share their brand of Southern hospitality.
These days, with the cost of living skyrocketing and an exploding population causing traffic nightmares and housing shortages in other states, South Carolina might be one of the most underrated yet promising places to live in the United States. In particular, Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville are emerging as top destinations thanks to their booming job markets, recreational activities, and rich culture scenes.
In this guide, we’ll tell ya’ll what you need to know before moving to South Carolina, from the job market to the climate. (And trust us, getting the hang of “y’all” is almost a rite of passage around here.)
10 Things to Know about Moving to South Carolina
Did you know in South Carolina they put mustard on barbecue? And it turns out that’s just the beginning — here’s what to consider before moving to South Carolina, so you can ensure you’re prepared for everything else the state has in store.
1) South Carolina boasts an enviable cost of living
Depending on where you call home, it can feel like everywhere you turn prices are going up — mortgage rates, gas prices, even a meal at a fast food restaurant.
It’s true that inflation and other factors are putting a strain on people’s pocketbooks. Fortunately, South Carolina bucks that trend. The average cost of living in South Carolina is 6% lower than the national average. That means you won’t pay as much for housing, transportation, or health care as in other places.
To put that in perspective, the cost for all those essentials in South Carolina is $2,000 less than neighboring North Carolina and a whopping $15,000 less than in New York, on average.
2) The South Carolina job market is diverse and growing
If you decide to move to South Carolina, we’ve got good news: It shouldn’t be hard to find a job. According to the Columbia Business Review, the state has the fastest-growing job market in the country. The rate of available job openings has jumped by a whopping 142.36% over the past 10 years. That’s well above the national average of 89.29%. This growth is especially thriving in the manufacturing, health care, and tourism industries.
Like anywhere, job availability varies by region. BMW, GE, and Nestle are a few of the global companies that have a presence in the Upstate region of South Carolina. Cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville offer opportunities for careers in tech and professional services, while rural areas tend to have more agricultural and manufacturing options.
3) Summers are sunny and winters are mild
If you’re tired of shoveling snow, then living in South Carolina is a great choice for you! On the whole, the state experiences a humid subtropical climate. That means mild winters, but they’re accompanied by hot, humid summers. So be prepared to sweat, because we’re not talking about dry heat as in Texas.
However, if you like a little snow and don’t want to give up that winter jacket, consider the Upstate region. This area, which includes the cities of Greenville and Spartanburg, sits within the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Winters are cooler than the rest of the state, and an average snowfall amount of around 3 inches means you might even see some snow.
4) You can find your dream home in an affordable housing market
Housing costs in the U.S. are at an all-time high. But you can still find affordable homes in South Carolina, and that’s one of the driving factors for why people move to the state. While a growing population has led home prices in South Carolina to experience some increases, on the whole, South Carolina homes remain relatively budget-friendly.
According to Zillow, the typical home in South Carolina costs $296,987. That’s over $100,000 less than the national average. Meanwhile, median rent sits at $1,849. Of course, these costs are all relative, depending on where in the state you make your home — An ocean-front property in Myrtle Beach doesn’t come cheap!
5) Southern hospitality is alive and well in South Carolina
Friendly people and a welcoming culture — that’s what make up the Palmetto State, y’all. When moving to South Carolina, you’ll find welcoming neighbors inviting you to enjoy local events and community gatherings. Don’t be surprised if they offer up invitations to family gatherings or church events as well.
You’ll find it common to engage in friendly conversations with strangers on everyday errands to the bank or the grocery store, and you might even experience some generous acts of kindness. It’s the southern way to be considerate of others, whether helping a stranger with a flat tire or inviting new neighbors to a cookout. (If you haven’t figured it out by now, if you move to South Carolina, you better like barbecue.)
6) You can further your education at your pick of colleges and universities
One of the hottest state rivalries in football takes place right in South Carolina, when Clemson plays the University of South Carolina in the Palmetto Bowl each year. But these colleges aren’t just known for sports, they’re also well-respected educational institutions.
These two state-supported universities are joined by a number of private colleges and universities, including Furman University in Greenville, Wofford College in Spartanburg, and Presbyterian College in Clinton. And The Citadel, a publicly funded military college, educates the next generation of those who defend our country.
The road to college starts with a good foundation, and the fact that South Carolina ranks 7th in the United States for early education is especially promising for young families.
7) South Carolina’s rich history makes it a living museum
For history buffs, moving to South Carolina is like stepping into a living museum. From Fort Sumter on the coast, where the first shots of the Civil War rang out, to Charleston, where British forces once laid siege, the state is rich with historical landmarks.
Architecturally, many of South Carolina’s cities, with their well-preserved Colonial buildings and charming cobblestone streets, are a step back in time. This makes the state perfect for weekend road trips, where you can soak in the state’s heritage, from the Georgian architecture of Rainbow Row in Charleston to the Gothic Christ Church in Greenville.
8) When it comes to enjoying the outdoors, South Carolina has a lot to offer
Get your gear ready, because South Carolina is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Love the beach? The stunning coastlines of Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand, or less crowded barrier islands like Hilton Head, are perfect for body surfing, fishing, or relaxing on the sand. Prefer the mountains? Take a hike along the Appalachian Trail through the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Upstate region. And if wide-open spaces are your jam, the breathtaking countryside stretching across the Midlands and Pee Dee has plenty to offer, from greenways to lakes.
9) Taxes might be as certain as death, but they’re less of a bite out of your income in South Carolina
Let’s face it, nobody enjoys paying taxes. But if you’re moving to South Carolina, you can expect a smaller tax burden than most other states. The state’s graduated income tax ranges from 0% to 6.5%. What’s more, military income and Social Security benefits are fully exempt, making moving to South Carolina especially attractive for veterans and retirees.
The state sales tax is also notably low at 6%, with exemptions for essentials like groceries and prescription medications. Property taxes are similarly reasonable, averaging 0.56%, although areas with rising home values may see some modest increases. In short, South Carolina is a place that can help stretch your dollar a little bit further.
10) South Carolina’s food tradition is rich and flavorful
If you’re moving to South Carolina, get your taste buds ready — and maybe loosen your belt a notch. Southern food here is all about big flavors, comfort, and tradition.
That barbecue we’ve been referring to isn’t the only thing filling plates across the state. Creamy shrimp and grits, crispy fried chicken, and biscuits slathered in gravy are staples from the coast to the Upstate region. (Are you drooling yet?)
Between the sweet tea and pecan pie, this food might be the kind of cooking that warms the soul but it’s not exactly calorie-friendly — at least it keeps local gyms in business!
South Carolina’s Most Popular Cities
Trying to figure out where to move in South Carolina? If you want city life, there are a few stand-out options.
Moving to Charleston
This coastal city has everything you want for Saturday afternoon adventures: History, culture, and some of the most picturesque cobblestone streets in the South. You’ll find breathtaking architecture, which you can view from a horse-drawn carriage tour, a vibrant arts scene, and some of the best dining in the state, from Michelin-starred restaurants to diners serving up soul food.
Moving to Greenville
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville offers small-town charm with urban sophistication. If you love outdoor adventures, Greenville might be your top choice. You’ll find scenic beauty and plenty of outdoor activities at a plethora of parks, including Paris Mountain State Park, which boasts low-key Lake Placid.
Downtown Greenville offers residents the enviable perk of boutique shopping and lively cultural events (from the bustling weekly farmers market to the annual Artisphere festival, which snagged #1 USA Today's Reader's Choice Award for Best Art Festival), all anchored by the picturesque Falls Park on the Reedy River.
Moving to Columbia
For those moving to South Carolina who want a balance of city life with a welcoming, hometown feel, Columbia is a great choice. Sure, it’s not Manhattan, but as the state capital and home to the University of South Carolina, Columbia buzzes with youthful energy and a strong local culture.
You’ll find plenty of dining, shopping, and nightlife options in the city’s Five Points district. You’ve also got the opportunity to hit the South Carolina State Fair in the fall, or the Soda City Market every Saturday in Columbia.
The Pros and Cons of Living in South Carolina
Is South Carolina a good state to move to? While affordable living, rich cultural heritage, and a varied job market sound ideal, there’s more to consider. Here’s a quick look at the main pros and cons:
Pros | Cons |
Affordable cost of living compared to many states or cities, especially big places like Brooklyn | Like most of the United States, housing costs are on the increase in South Carolina |
Mild winters with plenty of sunshine (God bless that vitamin D!) | Hot summers, with high humidity |
Diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains, which provide opportunity for lots of outdoor activities from hiking to paddling | Lower-than-average healthcare quality and public education, compared to other states |
Welcoming culture with strong southern hospitality (but you might need to like football) | |
Rich historical sites and lively cities like Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia |
Making the Move to South Carolina
Is South Carolina calling your name? With its blend of affordability, rich history, friendly charm, and a landscape that offers everything from beaches to mountains, it’s no wonder people are packing their bags for the Palmetto State. Sure, it comes with a few quirks — that humidity is no joke, man — but for many, the benefits and quality of life in South Carolina more than make up for it.
If that Southern charm sounds good to you, Colonial Van Lines is here to make your move easier. With over 20 years of experience, our team knows what it takes to make a long-distance move smooth from start to finish. Get started with a free quote — and let us take care of the rest