South Carolina Retirement Towns
South Carolina Retirement Towns is a regional organization dedicated to promoting affordable and high-quality retirement destinations within South Carolina. Established with a mission to enhance the quality of life for retirees through accurate information and community engagement, the organization has evolved over decades to include insights on healthcare, housing, and local culture in various towns across the state. Its history dates back to early efforts aimed at highlighting the state’s unique towns suitable for aging populations, emphasizing accessible healthcare, modest home prices, and vibrant cultural scenes. By fostering awareness and providing resources, South Carolina Retirement Towns has become a trusted guide for retirees seeking a fulfilling and cost-effective retirement lifestyle in the Palmetto State.
News Summary
South Carolina offers a variety of affordable towns for retirees seeking a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle. A new list spotlights ten towns that combine modest housing prices with cultural richness and accessible healthcare, making them ideal for comfortable living. From historic Aiken to charming Conway and even budget-friendly Gaffney, these communities provide engaging activities and essential services for older adults looking to settle down.
Top 10 Affordable Retirement Towns in South Carolina for Comfortable Living
South Carolina is becoming increasingly popular among retirees due to its serene atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and accessible healthcare services. A recently compiled list highlights ten towns that provide affordable living options for older adults while maintaining a high quality of life. These locations, known for their modest home prices and engaging local culture, make them ideal choices for those looking to retire comfortably.
Aiken
Aiken stands out due to its historical significance as a winter resort destination since 1892. The town features Aiken Regional Medical Centers, known for its Level III trauma coverage, ensuring residents have access to critical healthcare. The median home price in May 2025 is projected to be $266,000. Retirees can enjoy attractions like Hopelands Gardens, New Moon Café, and the Aiken Center for the Arts, alongside the renowned Willcox hotel.
Conway
Established in 1734, Conway offers a quaint living environment with a population under 30,000, resulting in less congestion. The median home price in May 2025 is estimated at $290,000. Points of interest such as the Conway Riverwalk, Horry County Museum, and the Theatre of the Republic enhance the town’s charm.
Anderson
Known as the “Electric City,” Anderson boasts lower electricity costs by 13% compared to the national average. The AnMed Health Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services. With an average median home price of $270,000 as of April 2025, residents can enjoy outdoor activities at the East-West Greenway and Sadlers Creek State Park.
Seneca
Nestled near a nuclear power plant, Seneca benefits from a reliable electric supply and has access to Prisma Health’s advanced heart program within a convenient 40-minute drive. The median list price for homes sits at $360,000 as of March 2025. Key attractions include Lake Keowee Marina and the Lunney Museum.
Lexington
This town made headlines by achieving South Carolina’s first ISO-Class 1 fire rating in 2023, which translates to lower insurance premiums for residents. With a 557-bed medical facility providing healthcare services, the median home price in April 2025 is $303,000. Residents can enjoy events at the Icehouse Amphitheatre and visit the historic Lexington County Museum.
North Augusta
Spanning two states, North Augusta benefits from low electric rates thanks to a city-owned hydroelectric plant. The March 2025 median list price for homes is approximately $258,000. Residents can take advantage of recreational spaces such as the Greeneway Trail and the Riverview Park Activities Center.
Camden
As South Carolina’s oldest inland municipality, Camden features a thriving equestrian economy. The KershawHealth Medical Center expanded in 2022 to include a catheter lab, enhancing local healthcare access. The median house price is $234,000 in May 2025, and entertaining events include the annual Carolina Cup steeplechase.
Gaffney
Known for the iconic Peachoid water tower, Gaffney boasts a median home price around $218,000, which fosters a debt-free lifestyle for retirees. Property taxes in the area are affordable, with an average annual bill of $580 for a $200,000 assessment, making it an attractive option for those on a fixed income.
Florence
Florence, initially a crucial rail junction in 1853, maintains daily Amtrak service, ensuring convenient travel options. A Level II trauma hospital is located within a 15-minute commute. As of April 2025, the median home price is $219,000, and homeowners aged 65 and older may have the option to waive solid-waste fees, which further enhances affordability.
Greenwood
Greenwood is recognized for its vibrant cultural scene, including a professional opera season initiated in 1967, making it appealing to art enthusiasts. With a median home price at an affordable $185,000, the town offers substantial healthcare facilities and hosts seasonal community events like the bluegrass concerts at Lake Greenwood State Park.
In summary, these ten towns in South Carolina provide retirees with an appealing blend of cultural richness, reliable healthcare, and affordable housing options, making them suitable destinations for those seeking a fulfilling retirement experience.
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Additional Resources
- World Atlas: 10 Best Towns in South Carolina to Retire Comfortably
- Kiplinger: 8 Things You Must Know About Retiring to the Carolinas
- Travel + Leisure: Where to Retire in the Southeast United States
- FinanceBuzz: Affordable Retirement Cities in South Carolina
- The State: South Carolina Retirement News
- Google Search: South Carolina retirement
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Google News: retirement in South Carolina
- Google Scholar: retirement locations South Carolina
