South Carolina’s Best Cities for Retirement in 2025
As the year winds down and folks start thinking about their golden years, many are curious about the best spots to retire. Well, if you’re dreaming of retiring in sunny South Carolina, you’re in for a treat! A recent report has unveiled the top places to settle down in the U.S. for 2025, and several South Carolina cities made the cut. Let’s dive into what these charming cities have to offer!
Myrtle Beach: A Coastal Retreat
Coming in at 121st place out of 150, Myrtle Beach is a beautiful coastal city that’s known for its stunning views and laid-back atmosphere. With an overall score of 6.4 out of 10, this hotspot offers plenty of sunshine and sandy beaches for those looking to soak up the sun. However, it’s important to note that housing affordability scored a modest 5.8, while health care was on the lower end with a score of 3.7. The beach life may be calling, but folks may need to think about their health options as they settle into retirement.
Columbia: A Capital Choice
Next up is the bustling capital city of Columbia, which secured the 78th spot. Columbia’s overall score stands at 6.3 out of 10. While it scored slightly lower in overall rankings than Myrtle Beach, it shines when it comes to housing affordability, with a score of 6.7. Residents can enjoy a variety of cultural and outdoor activities. The city’s health care rating is a bit better than Myrtle Beach’s, sitting at 3.9. It’s a city that offers a little something for everyone!
Spartanburg: A Hidden Gem
Spartanburg ranks higher than both Myrtle Beach and Columbia, taking the 67th position on the list. It shares the same overall score as Myrtle Beach at 6.4, but it outshines its peers in housing affordability with a solid score of 7.4 out of 10. This might make it an attractive option for retirees looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle while still enjoying a vibrant community and various amenities. Its health care score, however, remains on the more modest end at 3.3.
Greenville: A Thriving Community
Not too far behind, Greenville ranks impressively in the top half of the list at 30th place. With an overall score of 6.6, this city is thriving with activities, parks, and delightful dining options. Plus, it offers a decent housing affordability score at 6.8. However, when it comes to health care, it too has room for improvement with a score of 3.9. If you’re looking for a balance of nature and community, Greenville could be the perfect fit for you!
Charleston: A Historical Beauty
Finally, we have the stunning city of Charleston, which made a splash by landing in the 13th spot on the list! Scoring a remarkable 6.8 out of 10, Charleston boasts not only charming historic streets and rich culture but also the highest health care score of the South Carolina cities at 4.2. With an overall score reflecting the love locals have for their city, Charleston stands out as the top choice for retirees looking to enjoy life in a vibrant, health-conscious environment.
Which City Will You Choose?
So there you have it! Whether you’re drawn to the coast, the culture of the capital, or the charm of a small town, South Carolina offers some fantastic options for retirement. Each city brings its own mix of affordability, health care, and resident happiness. As you contemplate your retirement plans for 2025, consider these delightful cities and what they could mean for your next chapter!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
