Why Are People Moving To South Carolina?
- Jesse Carter
- Feb 5
- 5 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
South Carolina has emerged as one of the nation’s fastest-growing destinations. In fact, the state recently won the top spot of the most popular state to move to in 2023, measured by the ratio of people moving in versus out.
Why Are People Moving to South Carolina?
This influx raises the question: Why are people moving to South Carolina?
Those who already live and work here know all the great perks that come with living in this state. If you’re not familiar with the Palmetto State, this article will tell you much of what you’ll need to know about its rapid growth.
Affordability and Cost of Living
One of the biggest reasons people are moving to South Carolina is its affordability. A moveBuddha study found that reasonable housing prices and an overall low cost of living are the major drivers of the influx.
South Carolina is about 11.5% cheaper than the average state in the U.S., which means everyday expenses—from groceries to utilities—tend to be lower.
For homebuyers, South Carolina’s home prices are quite attractive. The typical home price in South Carolina is well below that of many Northeastern or West Coast states, therefore, homeownership is more attainable for new residents.
In many areas, the median home prices hover in the mid-$300,000s, a bargain compared to New York or California, where prices are easily two to five times that amount. According to Zillow, Greenville’s median home price is $325,375, Columbia’s $224,616, and Charleston’s $588,960.
Lower property taxes and state taxes further add to the financial appeal.
You can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the hefty price tag found in more densely populated areas.
While the influx of newcomers has started to put some upward pressure on prices for housing and necessities, the state’s overall cost of living remains very competitive.
Compared to national averages and hot markets elsewhere, South Carolina still offers a low-cost environment that attracts people from all over.
Jobs and Economics
Beyond affordability, South Carolina’s booming job market is a major pull. We recently published a five-part series on this topic.
In 2023 alone, about 14,000 new jobs were added to South Carolina’s economy (on top of 14,000 the previous year)
Prominent industries driving employment in South Carolina include manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. A burgeoning tech sector and manufacturing growth bolster the state’s appeal, not to mention the ample employment opportunities they bring for skilled workers.
Greenville specifically is one of the largest engineering hubs in the country and home to GE’s only R&D center in the world. BMW and Michelin’s North American headquarters include engineering, and many of their suppliers have their engineering divisions nearby.
Major manufacturers (including automotive and aerospace) have a large presence in the state, and the tech and healthcare industries are rapidly growing in cities like Columbia and Greenville.
The economic momentum is also evident in city revitalizations, for example, Charleston’s booming economy. Charleston was highlighted as the top destination in the state, with about 70% of moves being inbound.
Demographics and Retention
South Carolina has long been a magnet for retirees and older adults seeking warm weather and a lower cost of living. This is reflected in the state’s median age creeping upward to about 40 years old. Coastal cities like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head have a significant retiree population.
However, the appeal of South Carolina is attracting many young professionals and families, as well. College graduates and remote workers are choosing South Carolina, drawn by the lifestyle and lower expenses compared to other parts of the nation.
Urban vs. Rural Migration Trends
Another interesting aspect of the migration trend is where people are moving within South Carolina. Are new residents clustering in cities or spreading into the countryside?
The answer is a bit of both, with a notable lean toward the state’s charming urban areas (which are much smaller and more livable than, say, New York or Los Angeles).
Many Americans making cross-country moves in recent years have been leaving big, densely populated cities in favor of places with more space and a slower pace of life. South Carolina has benefited greatly from this trend. Cities and metropolitan areas in South Carolina—like Greenville, Columbia, and Charleston—are among the top choices for new arrivals.
Greenville (in the Upstate) was named one of the top destinations for Americans in 2023 due to its high inflow-to-outflow ratio, alongside Asheville just across the border in North Carolina.
These areas offer urban amenities such as restaurants, arts, sports teams and employment opportunities, but without the crowds, long commutes, impatience or costs of bigger cities.
You’ll find that South Carolina’s urban areas strike a nice balance: you can live in or near a city and still have a bit of elbow room and green space. Even the largest city, Charleston, is relatively mid-sized with a gentler pace of life.
That said, new residents are opting for suburban or smaller communities, enjoying the best of both worlds.
According to GSA Business Report, four South Carolina cities made the top 25 list of most popular cities to move to in 2023, including Myrtle Beach (ranked #2) and Summerville (#5).
Lifestyle and Climate Benefits
Ask any new South Carolina resident what they love about the state, and you will likely hear about the wonderful lifestyle and climate. South Carolina boasts a mild, steady climate with short, gentle winters and lengthy summers.
South Carolina’s weather is a huge perk for someone moving from a harsh Northern winter or a drizzly Pacific Northwest climate. You can golf, hike, or beach-comb nearly year-round.
Beyond weather, the state offers abundant recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The Upstate hosts a section of the Blue Ridge mountains and its foothills, while the low country is home to salt marshes, winding waterways and abundant wildlife.
New residents are often thrilled with the easy access to outdoor activities – you can go mountain hiking or waterfall-chasing in the morning and relax on a beach, go ocean fishing or kayaking by the afternoon. Hunting or sporting clays are available throughout the state.
Conclusion: South Carolina’s Draw
If you're considering moving to South Carolina, now is the time to take advantage of the state's thriving economy and dynamic property market.
If you’re interested in speaking about your multi-family or self-storage land, get in touch with Streams Development today. Based in Greenville, SC, we specialize in creating high-quality developments tailored to market demand.
With decades of experience, Streams Development is a leading force in real estate development across the Carolinas and beyond.
Contact us today.
Do you want to learn more about development opportunities in South Carolina?
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