South Carolina 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

The state offers a variety of outdoor activities, a beautiful coastline, and beaches. Many retirees here spend their time enjoying golf and water sports. South Carolina is also rich in cultural heritage. There are many historic sites, festivals, and a distinctive cuisine rooted in Southern traditions statewide.

South Carolina Climate & Geography

Residents of 55+ communities in South Carolina enjoy a humid subtropical climate. Temperature and precipitation vary across different parts of the state. During the summer months, the northern regions of the state experience temperatures between 86 and 93 degrees. Temperatures closer to the coast range from 66 to 73.

Winters are mild across the state, with temperatures ranging from the low 60s to low 40s. There is plenty of precipitation statewide, with March and April being the wettest months. Snow is very uncommon here.

With 32,020 square miles of land, South Carolina is the 40th-ranked state in total size. Bordered by North Carolina, Georgia, and the Atlantic Ocean, South Carolina offers rolling hills, marshlands, and a beautiful coastline. A few of the state's larger cities are on the coast, along with numerous smaller fishing and beach towns.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment in South Carolina

South Carolina is rich with culture and history. It was the 8th state of the 50 United States admitted to the union in 1788. Many important Civil War sites are in South Carolina, like Fort Sumter, the sights of the first battle of the Civil War.

The state's capital, Columbia, is also its largest city. Columbia houses many notable attractions, such as the Columbia Metro Convention Center, Town Theatre, and the University of South Carolina. Many of South Carolina's most popular active adult communities are in this area.

Active adults looking to enjoy the outdoors have many opportunities in South Carolina. Those living in an active adult community along the coastline can boat, fish, and enjoy other water sports. The northwest includes a small portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which has great hiking and is home to Table Rock State Park.

Those looking for a more social lifestyle also have entertainment opportunities. The following places are ideal for enthusiasts of the visual arts:

• Gibbes Museum of Art
• Greenville Country Museum
• South Carolina State Museum

Some of the more notable venues for the performing arts include:

• The Peace Center in Greenville
• The North Charleston Coliseum
• The Newberry Opera House

Across the state, active adults have many choices for entertainment and recreation.

South Carolina Cost of Living & Taxes

The cost of living for active adults in South Carolina is 6% lower than the national average. Goods are taxed at 6%, and counties can impose an additional 1%. However, residents who are 85 or older are exempt from this additional 1% tax.

The personal income tax consists of five brackets with a top rate of 7%. Local governments assess property taxes, and residents are taxed at 4% of the property value.

Health Care in South Carolina

One major reason active adults are considering relocation is for quality health care. South Carolina offers great hospitals and specialized medical centers.

With 217 active physicians per 100,000 people, South Carolina retirees are close to the medical services they may need. South Carolina has 65 hospitals. One is nationally ranked, and many others meet national standards of excellence.

Retiring in South Carolina FAQs

Where are the best places to retire in South Carolina?

South Carolina offers a lot of variety for retirees of any lifestyle. Many retirees enjoy the climate and pace of 55+ communities in Charleston.

What are the best college towns to retire in South Carolina?

South Carolina has many well-known colleges, including Clemson University, Coastal Carolina University, and the University of South Carolina. Many of these college towns are becoming popular retirement spots with plenty of social activities.

• Charleston
• Greenville
• Columbia

What are the best 55+ communities in South Carolina to retire in?

The best community for you is one that fits your preferences, hobbies, interests, and needs. Here are some of the top retirement communities in South Carolina that many retirees enjoy:

• Sun City Hilton Head
• Four Seasons at South Knolls
• Sun City Carolina Lakes

These 55 and older communities in South Carolina offer many floor plans, amenities, and social activities that help foster an active retirement lifestyle.

Is South Carolina or North Carolina better to retire in?

The Carolinas are some of the most ideal places to retire and maintain an active lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision comes down to preference. We’ve created a side-by-side comparison to help you quickly understand which is better for your lifestyle.

How much does it cost to live in a 55+ community in South Carolina?

As of 2023, the average cost of residing in an age-restricted community is between $1,500 and $4,000 per month. This is due to HOA fees, onsite amenities, security services, and other expenses.