South Carolina offers coastal vistas, warm weather, and charming historic towns. Check out the best places for retirement in South Carolina.

Many retirees are considering South Carolina as a potential destination for their next chapter. It's not hard to see why. The Palmetto State offers a relatively low cost of living, a warm climate, and a blend of coastal and inland towns that can suit different retirement styles.

Whether looking for a quiet, budget friendly home or a vibrant community near the beach, retirees may find a wide range of appealing options across the state, including several of the best places to retire in South Carolina on a budget. Determining where to retire in South Carolina depends on lifestyle goals as well as affordability, access to healthcare, and proximity to the coast. Jump to the list of the best places to live in South Carolina for retirees or read on to learn what can make South Carolina a good place to retire. 

Is South Carolina a good place to retire?

It can be, thanks to policies that give tax breaks to seniors in South Carolina and relatively affordable housing in many areas. The state does not tax Social Security retirement benefits and does not tax social security benefits (though it may tax other retirement income). The state may also offer tax deductions on retirement income, depending on the filer’s unique circumstances. South Carolina's climate also appeals to retirees seeking mild winters and plenty of sunshine. 

That said, it's important to note that healthcare access and insurance costs can vary widely depending on location. Some areas offer high-quality medical services, while others may require travel to nearby cities for specialized care.¹

Does South Carolina offer tax exemptions for seniors?

South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits and allows for substantial deductions on other retirement income.² Taxpayers age 65 or older can deduct up to $15,000 of income from pensions, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), or other retirement accounts. Married couples filing jointly can deduct up to $30,000 if both are 65 or older.

The state also offers a retirement income tax deduction: Individuals who pay taxes and receive income from a qualifying retirement account may be able to deduct $3,000 of qualifying retirement income annually, up until age 65. After 65, people may be able to deduct $10,000 annually. 

What property tax benefits are available for retirees in South Carolina?

South Carolina has relatively low property tax rates compared to the national average.³ In addition, homeowners over the age of 65 who have lived in their home for more than one year may qualify for the Homestead Exemption Program.⁴ This program exempts the first $50,000 of the home’s fair market value from property taxes.

Best places to retire in South Carolina

Here are 10 of the best places for retirees in South Carolina, determined by population, housing, cost of living and healthcare, and amenities.^5,6,7,8 

Columbia

• Population: 144,788
• Share of population 65+: 11%
• Median home value: $224,500
• Cost of living vs. national average: 11% lower
• Cost of living vs. state average: 2% lower
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 24% lower
• Amenities score: A+

Columbia is a mid-sized city located in the center of the state. As the capital of South Carolina, it offers a mix of historic charm and urban convenience. Residents can enjoy riverfront parks, museums, and a walkable downtown anchored by the University of South Carolina.
With a low cost of living and a growing healthcare hub, Columbia may appeal to retirees looking for affordability without sacrificing amenities. The City Central location also offers easy access to both the mountains — which 22% of American say they want to move near in retirement, according to Empower research — and the coast.

Charleston

• Population: 157,665
• Share of population 65+: 16.1%
• Median Home Value: $588,916
• Cost of living vs. national average: 2% higher
• Cost of living vs. state average: 12% higher
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 14% lower
• Amenities score: A+

Charleston is a historic port city known for its cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and vibrant arts scene. It offers a rich blend of cultural institutions, top-rated restaurants, and year-round outdoor recreation.

While home values are higher here than in many other parts of the state, Charleston's strong healthcare system and coastal lifestyle may make it an attractive option for retirees seeking charm, climate, and community.

Myrtle Beach

• Population: 35,682
• Share of population 65+: 23.6%
• Median home value: $324,747
• Cost of living vs. national average: -8%
• Cost of living vs. state average: 1% higher
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 8% lower
• Amenities score: A+

Myrtle Beach is a popular coastal city located on the Atlantic shoreline. It's known for its beaches, boardwalks and golf courses — plus a wide array of entertainment and dining options. It is among the best places to retire in South Carolina near water.

With housing costs still moderate relative to many coastal cities and a large retiree population, Myrtle Beach can offer a laid-back lifestyle for those who want to stay active and social in retirement.

Aiken

• Population: 33,485
• Share of population 65+: 21.2%
• Median home value: $263,929
• Cost of living vs. national average: 9% lower
• Cost of living vs. state average: 4.5% lower
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 20.2% lower
• Amenities score: B

Aiken is a quiet, retiree-friendly town with plenty of activities and restaurants. The town is also home to outdoor adventures, museums, and shopping, among many other amenities and sights. 

This town has a rich equestrian tradition: the city’s wide dirt roads, oak-lined streets, and historic training tracks have helped it cement its reputation as a premier spot for horse racing and riding.⁹ The town still hosts steeplechase events and polo matches. More than a fifth of the city’s population is 65 and older, so retirees can ease the transition of becoming part of the community.

Spartanburg

• Population: 30,937
• Share of population 65+: 16.4%
• Median home value: $266,186
• Cost of living vs. national average: 16% lower
• Cost of living vs. state average: 2% lower
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 5% lower
• Amenities score: B

Anderson, often called “The Electric City,” is located near the Georgia border and offers easy access to Lake Hartwell.¹⁰ The area is known for its relaxed pace, affordability, and small-town appeal.

Retirees may be drawn to Anderson's lower home prices and moderate cost of healthcare, along with opportunities for outdoor recreation and involvement in local events.

Greenville

• Population: 74,371
• Share of population 65+: 15.1%
• Median home value: $325,735
• Cost of living vs. national average: 7% lower
• Cost of living vs. state average: Equal to state average
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 5% higher
• Amenities score: A+

Greenville has emerged as one of South Carolina's fastest growing cities.¹¹ Known for its revitalized downtown, award-winning parks and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the area blends Southern charm with urban sophistication.

Although the cost of living is slightly higher than in some other cities on this list, Greenville's amenities and vibrant community life may offer strong appeal for retirees seeking both comfort and connection.

Bluffton

• Population: 36,146
• Share of population 65+: 20.3% 
• Median home value: $501,787
• Cost of living vs. national average: 3% lower 
• Cost of living vs. state average: 30% higher
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 1.5% higher
• Amenities score: A

Bluffton is a scenic Lowcountry town nestled along the May River, just a short drive from Hilton Head Island. Known for its oak-lined streets, charming historic district, and vibrant arts community, Bluffton combines coastal tranquility with small-town character. The area offers easy access to galleries, farmers markets, golf courses, and nature preserves, creating a laid-back but engaging lifestyle.

With a growing population of retirees and a well-developed local healthcare system, Bluffton may appeal to those seeking a balance of affordability, amenities, and natural beauty. While home prices are on the higher side, the overall cost of living remains slightly below the national average, making it an attractive alternative to larger, busier coastal cities.

Hilton Head Island

• Population: 38,158
• Share of population 65+: 39.2%
• Median home value: $764,829
• Cost of living vs. national average: 4% higher
• Cost of living vs. state average: 14% higher
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: Equal to national average
• Amenities score: B

Hilton Head Island is a resort-style community located off the southern coast. It's known for its beaches, golf courses, and extensive network of walking and biking trails. The town has long been a draw for active retirees, and is considered one of the best cities to retire in within SC.

Though the cost of living and home prices are higher here, Hilton Head’s access to amenities and quality of life may appeal to those seeking a scenic and sociable retirement.

Beaufort

• Population: 14,334
• Share of population 65+: 15.3%
• Median home value: $408,246
• Cost of living vs. national average: 3% lower
• Cost of living vs. state average: 7% higher
• Cost of healthcare vs. national average: 3.6% higher
• Amenities score: A

Beaufort is a small coastal town located between Charleston and Savannah. It offers historic homes, waterfront views, and a thriving arts scene. The area's southern charm and scenic beauty have made it popular destination and a sought-after place to retire.

With a moderate retiree population and a strong sense of community, Beaufort may appeal to those looking for a quiet yet vibrant place to enjoy their next chapter.

Why do people retire in South Carolina?

Is South Carolina a good place to retire? Many seniors think so. The state remains a popular retirement destination thanks to the combination of tax benefits, varied geography and relatively low cost of living.¹² From coastal towns to mountain gateways, retirees can choose a setting that suits their lifestyle preferences.

While health care access and real estate costs can vary, many retirees appreciate the slower pace, welcoming communities, and warm climate that Palmetto State has to offer.