Reasons To Consider a South Carolina Retirement

Lake view during autumn at dusk of Table Rock Mountain in Pickens, South Carolina.
Here are 5 reasons why you should retire in the Palmetto State.

South Carolina active adult communities have a bit of everything, and retirees are noticing. Once just a stopping point for retirees flocking to Florida from the northeast, South Carolina is now a favorite destination for active adults. While there are many reasons why active adults retire in South Carolina, here are the top five reasons for you to consider.

1. Affordablility

Aerial view of Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina.

South Carolina is a tax-friendly state with a relatively low cost of living. It’s an ideal destination for active adults looking for an affordable retirement location.

Homeowners over 65 qualify for certain tax exemptions. Also, Social Security and many disability payments aren’t taxable. Median home prices are often below the national average, although homes in some popular South Carolina cities can be more expensive. However, active adults can still achieve an affordable retirement along the South Carolina coast.

2. Desirable Climate

View of a sunset over a pond surrounded by greenery in Beaufort, South Carolina.

The subtropical climate in South Carolina provides plenty of warm days while still offering a noticeable change in seasons. Depending on the location within the state, daytime temperatures can climb into the low 90s during the height of summer and drop to the high 40s during the winter months.

During winter nights, upstate areas may reach freezing temperatures, and light snowfall is possible but uncommon. In general, coastal cities tend to have warmer weather, though they can be affected by hurricanes and tropical storms from the late summer through early fall.

3. Attractive Coastal Communities

View along a boardwalk of a sunrise over a sand dune in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Among retirees, South Carolina may be best known for its coastal cities like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. These beautiful areas feature sunny beaches and plenty of water-based activities. They’re ideal for both vacations and retirement.

There are also many coastal retirement communities in South Carolina designed specifically for 55+ active adults. Just a few include Sun City Hilton Head in Bluffton and Seasons at Prince Creek West in Murrells Inlet.

4. Steeped in Rich History

The pineapple fountain in the park along the waterfront of Charleston, South Carolina.

Although South Carolina’s coastal communities continue to attract relocating retirees, many active adults prefer the rich history found in the antebellum city of Charleston. Here, residents can take a step back in time as they explore local museums and historic homes. They can also appreciate the city’s thriving modern-day culture.

Del Webb Charleston at Nexton is set outside of the city to take advantage of the state’s picturesque countryside while still enjoying proximity to historic sites and bustling city life. The active adult communities within Charleston are The Elms of Charleston, Overture Daniel Island, and Overture West Ashley.

5. Spectacular Golf Courses

View of a pond and some sand traps on a Myrtle Beach golf course.

Although golf is just one of the many South Carolina activities that appeal to active adults, it has flourished throughout the Palmetto State. Some popular courses include The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head Island, Tidewater Golf Club in Myrtle Beach, and the May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff.

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