News Summary
South Carolina is emerging as a leading retirement haven for seniors in 2024, characterized by mild winters, friendly communities, and low living costs. The state offers tax-friendly policies, including exemptions on Social Security income, and varied landscapes catering to retirees’ needs. Towns like Florence, Socastee, and Hilton Head Island offer engaging activities, excellent healthcare access, and diverse lifestyles for seniors looking to settle down and enjoy rich cultural experiences in their golden years.
South Carolina continues to stand out as a prime retirement destination for many seniors in 2024, thanks to its mild winters, friendly communities, and affordable cost of living. With its varied landscapes and vibrant local cultures, retirees are increasingly opting for the Palmetto State as a place to settle down and enjoy their golden years. The influx of retirees has made South Carolina one of the leading states in the nation for migration, as seniors seek a higher quality of life combined with economic advantages.
The state’s appeal is further strengthened by its tax-friendly policies, particularly for retirees. South Carolina offers exemptions on Social Security income and certain retirement accounts, making it financially advantageous for those on a fixed income. Additionally, access to quality healthcare in the state ensures retirees can live comfortably and healthily.
Across South Carolina, towns varied in character and lifestyle cater to different retirement needs, all while providing essential services and engaging community activities. Here are some of the top towns highlighted for retirement:
Florence
Located in the Pee Dee region, Florence has a median home price of around $283,000. Approximately 19% of its residents are aged 65 and older, enabling access to senior-centered services. Leisure activities abound, including visits to local libraries, historic downtown strolls, and riverside relaxation.
Socastee
As a suburb of Myrtle Beach, Socastee houses around 24,600 residents with a median home price near $332,000. The area is rated for its low crime rates and excellent healthcare access. Outdoor attractions like the Socastee Swing Bridge enhance the lifestyle with opportunities for scenic enjoyment.
Hilton Head Island
This well-known resort area has a population of about 38,000, with over 30% of residents aged 60 and older. The median home value is approximately $699,000. The absence of state income tax on Social Security income is a significant financial benefit, adding to Hilton Head’s reputation for outdoor activities, wildlife preserves, and reliable healthcare facilities.
Beaufort
Home to around 13,600 seniors, Beaufort has a median housing cost of about $495,000. Known for its low crime rate and strong healthcare options, including Beaufort Memorial Hospital, the town offers a rich cultural life marked by historical tours and local festivals.
Fountain Inn
With a smaller population of roughly 10,400, Fountain Inn boasts a median home price around $327,000. This town provides a blend of small-town charm with community arts and parks, engaging seniors with various events at the Fountain Inn Activities Center.
Bluffton
Bluffton’s population stands at about 32,000, with more than 20% being seniors. The median home price is around $525,000. Known for its safety and vibrant arts and dining scene, the town offers a plethora of nature activities within its local parks.
Sumter
Sumter’s mild climate is a draw, with a median home value at $265,000. Notable attractions include the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, which hosts rich cultural events, providing retirees with excellent community ties.
Spartanburg
Featuring a diverse array of amenities for retirees, Spartanburg has a median home price around $274,000. The town fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, with a focus on healthcare and supportive services for seniors.
Georgetown
This coastal town has a median home value of about $439,000, characterized by a storied past and excellent community safety. The area offers local healthcare services and various leisure activities that cater to retiree lifestyles.
Lexington
Lexington, rich in history and home to around 24,600 residents, has a median home price of around $349,000. The town is recognized for its safety, easy healthcare access, and recreational activities by the lake.
Greenwood
Greenwood boasts an affordable housing market with median listing prices around $296,000. The community is known for its strong ties, cultural events, and good healthcare facilities tailored for seniors.
Overall, South Carolina continues to attract retirees with its unique blend of affordability, community warmth, accessible healthcare, and rich cultural experiences. This makes the Palmetto State a leading destination for those looking to enjoy an enriching retirement.
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Additional Resources
- World Atlas: Best South Carolina Towns for Retirees
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Kiplinger: 8 Things to Know About Retiring to the Carolinas
- Google Search: Retirement South Carolina
- The State: South Carolina Retirement News
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Retirement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Google News: South Carolina Retirement
- WPDE: South Carolina Retirement System Payment
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
