If you’re thinking about a move to Greenville, SC, well, you have excellent taste — Greenville was recently named the number one place to live in South Carolina. Almost 73,400 residents call this Southern charmer home, and it’s obvious why. Greenville boasts a low unemployment rate, stable housing market, eclectic foodie scene, top-notch arts and culture, highly rated public schools, and vibrant outdoor recreation. But even with all those highlights, you still have a tough choice to make: what are the best neighborhoods in Greenville, SC, to put down your roots?
5 Best Neighborhoods in Greenville, SC
Greenville has some impressive stats, but if you’re planning a cross-country move, you’ll need to do your due diligence before you head south. Greenville is the sixth largest city in South Carolina, and has at least 62 neighborhoods to choose from — so there's a lot to consider.
Which of these Greenville neighborhoods is the ideal choice for you? To help answer that, we’ve made a list of the best neighborhoods in Greenville, SC, so you can move into this new chapter with confidence.
Here are the criteria we used to narrow down our picks:
Overall resident safety
Public transportation access
Average home value and cost of rent
Strong public school districts
Access to parks, beaches, or green spaces
Local attractions and entertainment
1) West Greenville — A trendy haven for artists and creators
Average rent: $1,693
Average home value: $243,054
Best for: Young professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, diversity
Known for: Culinary hotspots, small businesses, art galleries, urban lifestyle
Getting around: The Village of West Greenville is near I-85, the city’s main interstate, so many residents drive their own cars. But if you want to use public transit, the free trolley connects this neighborhood to other parts of town via Route 909 (year-round) or Route 903 (seasonal). You can also walk to most of the local businesses.
About two miles from the downtown core, the Village of West Greenville is home to an eclectic fusion of art galleries, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, mixed-use venues, and nightlife entertainment.
Diverse business owners and creatives are packing up and flocking here from all over the country, earning this part of town the nickname “SoHo of Greenville.” Plus, the Craftsman bungalows and sleek, modern lofts offer an urban lifestyle within walking distance of the many vibrant hotspots.
Pendleton Street connects West Greenville to Downtown Main Street and other Greenville neighborhoods in the city’s West End pocket. You’ll also find striking wall murals and hip local businesses along this corridor.
Grab a fresh-baked donut and seasonal flavored latte from The Village Grind, then check out Spoonbill Gallery, featuring exhibits from 25 artists and makers across various mediums. You can also attend the Greenville Center for Creative Arts’ gallery crawl on the first Friday of each month, followed by a craft cocktail and locally sourced tasting menu at The Anchorage, a James Beard semi-finalist restaurant.
2) North Main — Where the city meets the suburbs
Average rent: $1,334
Average home value: $530,000
Best for: Families, retirees, downtown proximity, urban-suburban blend
Known for: Lush green spaces, tree-lined streets, walkable entertainment district
Getting around: North Main is only two miles from Downtown Greenville and close to the I-385 interstate, making it another drivable location. The Greenlink Bus also has a few lines that service this area including 907, 509, and 508. This neighborhood offers a wide variety of entertainment options within walking distance, too.
If you prefer urban convenience with a tranquil suburban feel, North Main offers that seamless blend you’re looking for. As one of the most historic Greenville neighborhoods, North Main is full of meticulously restored homes on charming tree-lined streets, just around the corner from lush outdoor spaces and bustling downtown attractions.
The atmosphere of this neighborhood is diverse, inclusive, and LGBTQ-friendly — call it the Brooklyn of Greenville — and the standout public schools and warm community vibe make it ideal for both families and retirees.
As a resident of North Main, you’re a couple of miles away from Falls Park on the Reedy, which earned a TripAdvisor “Traveler’s Choice Award” in 2024. This urban oasis features walking trails, gardens, public art installations, and the Liberty Bridge, a nationally famous architectural gem that overlooks Reedy River Falls.
When hunger strikes from all this al fresco recreation, head to the Bohemian Café for a hearty grilled sandwich and creamy signature tomato basil soup. Or treat yourself to a diner-style ice cream sundae at the local favorite Northgate Soda Shop.
3) Overbrook — Historic charm with modern renewal
Average rent: $1,377
Average home value: $416,250
Best for: Families, young professionals, outdoor enthusiasts
Known for: Historic preserved homes, community parks, quiet suburban feel
Getting around: Overbrook Historic District is one of the most convenient Greenville neighborhoods for commuters. I-385 runs directly through Overbrook, but if you would rather not drive, public transit is easily accessible. Hop on the trolley’s Route 909 or the Greenlink’s 509 bus line to reach other Greenville areas and attractions.
Another enclave steeped in history, Overbrook has been part of Greenville’s community fabric since the early 1900s. This neighborhood is a quick trolley ride from Downtown, but it still maintains the relaxed pace and quaint Southern charm of a bygone era. There’s also a wide variety of homes, from cozy pitched-roof cottages to stately Colonial Revivals dating back more than 100 years. Several homeowners are passionate gardeners and beekeepers, too.
But don’t mistake this historic character for a neighborhood stuck in the past — Overbrook is also in the midst of exciting revitalization. Head to Plough & Fork for a sustainable glass of wine and a farm-to-table meal from their rotating menu full of fresh local ingredients.
If you’re feeling active, Timmons Park boasts 26 acres of green space with pickleball courts and an 18-hole disc golf course. Plus, if you have kids, they’ll love being in close proximity to the Greenville Zoo, which has earned a “Gold Standard” accreditation for 34 years running.
4) Augusta Street — An upscale but close-knit community
Average rent: $1,544
Average home value: $757,500
Best for: Families, professionals, business owners, safety
Known for: Culinary and retail scene, excellent schools, strong community ties
Getting around: Augusta Street is located just off I-185, an access road that connects residents to both I-85 and I-385. From either of those interstates, it’s quick and easy to commute to other parts of Greenville. Or if public transit is more your speed, Augusta Street is near lines 504, 507, 501, 502, and 503 on the Greenlink.
With a flourishing retail district, inviting community ambiance, and upscale residential amenities, Augusta Street is one of the most prestigious Greenville neighborhoods. Many homes around here were built at least 50 years ago and reflect a number of architectural styles such as Victorian mansions, gable-roofed Tudors, brick Colonials, and Craftsman bungalows. This area also has A-rated public schools, making it an attractive choice for families.
Augusta Street’s major claim to fame is all the entertainment it offers, including more than 75 boutiques, vintage stores, restaurants, breweries, and community festivals. Indulge in some retail therapy at Monkee’s of the West End, or savor a coffee while you shop at the A20 Market + Café.
When it’s time to embrace the nightlife, head to The 05 to enjoy live music, craft beers, unique cocktails, and shareable tapas. Augusta Street’s local Business Association also hosts annual events like the Holiday Open House and Summer on Augusta block party.
5) Travelers Rest — A peaceful nature lover’s paradise
Average rent: $1,470
Average home value: $322,907
Best for: Retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, families, low violent crime
Known for: Small town charm, affordable housing, nature views and recreation
Getting around: Travelers Rest is a 25-minute drive to the urban center of Greenville, so it helps to have a car. You can access both city attractions and nature activities via highways US-276 or US-25. If you’re feeling adventurous, the 22-mile Swamp Rabbit multi-use trail also connects Travelers Rest to Downtown Greenville.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills about 10 miles outside of Greenville, this scenic area is ranked among Travel & Leisure’s “Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation.” But its picturesque nature activities, dynamic live entertainment, and emergent culinary scene make Travelers Rest a desirable place to live all year round. Not to mention, housing costs are quite affordable, and violent crime rates are some of the lowest in South Carolina.
Whether you’re looking for a serene environment to retire, or vibrant natural wonders to explore as a family, Travelers Rest has something for everyone. Nearby Paris Mountain State Park offers 17 miles of hiking trails with public lakes and campsites.
Travelers Rest is also home to Greenville County’s largest open-air farmers market, and the nearby Swamp Rabbit Trail makes it easy to access Downtown Greenville on either bike or foot.
Of course, we can’t talk about Southern small-town culture without mentioning barbeque, and Smoking Butt Head’s BBQ — a Travelers Rest institution — ranks among the top 25 pitmasters in the world.
FAQs About the Best Neighborhoods in Greenville, SC
What is the best area to live in Greenville, SC?
The best place to live in Greenville, SC, ultimately comes down to preference. If you want to be near Downtown with a diverse community, walkable entertainment, and trendy urban vibes, opt for North Main or West Greenville. If you want a family-oriented atmosphere with fun outdoor activities, top-rated schools, and general safety, consider Overbrook or Augusta Street. If you’re a retiree who wants a peaceful town outside the city with access to nature, Travelers Rest is an idyllic option. So, weigh your own priorities and make a decision from there.
What is the wealthiest area in Greenville, SC?
Augusta Street is the wealthiest place to live in Greenville, SC. The median annual household income in this neighborhood is $136,458 — well above the national average of $70,947. Houses generally cost around $757,500, but some of the more historic mansions on Augusta Street can run over a million (great for storage space, but tough on the wallet.) With desirable public schools and some of the most upscale dining, retail, and entertainment options in Greenville, Augusta Street is extremely sought-after. If you can afford the high prices, consider keeping this location on your radar.
Start Your New Chapter in Greenville, SC, with Colonial Van Lines
Whether you settle in urban and artsy West Greenville, serene and historic Overbrook, or any other spot on or off this list, it’ll soon be time to plan your move. Let the professionals at Colonial Van Lines handle all the packing, heavy lifting, and transport, so you can focus on making your new Greenville neighborhood feel like home. Contact us for a free quote today.