List: The Top 22 Places To Retire In South Carolina

• 22. Myrtle Beach

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CjGF4IVsGwI/

  Population: 33,638

  One of the larger places on this list is Myrtle Beach. The availability of golf, restaurants, activities for the grandkids, shopping, and more make this an attractive place to retire. One thing is for sure there is no shortage of things to do in Myrtle!

• 21. Varnville

  https://www.instagram.com/p/ChPYlMdrxe6/

  Population: 1,832

  Varnville is a small town in Hampton County, South Carolina. It’s roughly equidistant between Charleston and Savannah making visiting one of the historic cities easy and convenient. Living in Varnville can give retirees the small town lifestyle, but proximity to more amenities.

• 20. Forest Acres

  https://www.instagram.com/p/Ch2OscwuDPo/

  Population: 10,300

  This suburb of Columbia features tree-lined streets, plenty of green space, and is known for some of the best shopping and dining in the Columbia metro area. Located on the Eastern border of Columbia, Forest Acres dates back to 1935.

• 19. Hollywood

  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj0MyYWOuba/

  Population: 5,273

  With a population of over 5,000 Hollywood self describes as being filled with faith, family, and tradition.  Hollywood is part of the Charleston metro area like several other places on this list, and need I say more? It’s a short drive to Edisto Island and filled with ambiance from the live oaks and marsh that characterize the South Carolina low country.

• 18. Mount Pleasant

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CjAuRtUOr24/

  Population: 89,410

  By far the largest location on this list is Charleston suburb Mount Pleasant.  It places a large emphasis on family with numerous events throughout the year. The town is filled with parks, nature, and the best the low country has to offer.

• 17. India Hook

  India Hook, SC 29732

  Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

  Population: 3,762

  If lake life is what you’re looking for in retirement India Hook is a great option. This small suburb of Rock Hill is just across Lake Wylie from Tega Cay. You’re close to Charlotte and Rock Hill but can enjoy all the benefits of waterfront (or close) living.

• 16. Socastee

  Socastee, SC

  Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

  Population: 25,846

  You’ll find Socastee just west of the Myrtle Beach International Airport near the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge. This historic town is home to one of South Carolina’s only swing bridges.  The Intracoastal Waterway runs right through Socastee making it great for watersports and keeping that boat you’ve always dreamed of owning.

   

• 15. Northlake

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CjhDoWrOmNH/

  Population: 3,684

  Northlake is in Anderson County on Lake Hartwell offering plenty of opportunities for recreation and outdoor activities.  Living here put you close to the Greenville area and all it’s amenities.

• 14. Aiken

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CS4CDLnrsgi/

  Population: 31,428

  Aiken is rich in equine pursuits, the arts, sporting facilities, and nature. The town on the SC/Georgia border has a rich history dating back to the birth of the railroads. Here you can get outdoors, experience history, meander through beautiful parks, and participate in wonderful shopping.

• 13. Tega Cay

  https://www.instagram.com/p/B1PPXIpBJpg/

  Population: 10,834

  Tega Cay is a water-front community located right on Lake Wylie between Charlotte, NC, and Rock Hill, SC. There is no shortage of things to do with parks, walking trail, and all Lake Wylie has to offer.

• 12. Piedmont

  Piedmont, SC 29673

  Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

  Population: 6,122

  Piedmont was originally referred to as the “Big Shoals of the Saluda” after the Saluda River. You’ll find Piedmont along the Saluda River in the counties of Anderson and Greenville. 

• 11. Seven Oaks

  Seven Oaks, SC

  Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

  Population: 16,743

  Seven Oaks is a suburb located about 8 miles from Columbia giving you that suburban town feel with access to the benefits of South Carolina’s capital city.

• 10. Forestbrook

  Forestbrook, SC

  Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

  Just down 31 from Myrtle Beach is Forestbrook. The prime location gives residents easy access to the beach and all that this vacation town has to offer.

• 9. North Myrtle Beach

  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj2wCpkMfRv/

  North Myrtle Beach offers a quieter contrast from the area to its south. Activities such as golf and watersports are plentiful, as well as shopping, dining, and of course the beach.

• 8. Quinby

  Quinby, SC 29506

  Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

  Population: 1,079

  The Town of Quinby is located in eastern Florence County and it prides itself on being the safest place to live in South Carolina. Which probably contributes to its high ranking on this list.

• 7. Sullivan's Island

  https://www.instagram.com/p/B628MAZhW6J/

  Population: 2,177

  Sullivan’s Island is right at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor near Isle of Palms.  It features wide beaches with a variety of watersports, a rich history, local restaurants and shops. And you’re just minutes from Charleston.

• 6. Little River

  https://www.instagram.com/p/bEJvgtCtXd/

  Population: 9,692

  Little River is the oldest town along the Grand Strand (it’s just 20 miles from the heart of Myrtle Beach). This quaint fishing village is renowned for fresh seafood, fishing charters,  an annual blue crab festival, and its peaceful lifestyle. All while being a short drive to Myrtle’s famous attractions, signature golf courses, variety shows, and shopping.

• 5. Isle of Palms

  https://www.instagram.com/p/BgRrPC8lIJs/

  Population: 4,371

  Just 12 miles from historic Charleston between the Atlantic and Intracoastal is Isle of Palms. It’s perfect for retirees with a beautiful beach, championship golf & tennis, a marina, and endless recreational opportunities both on and off the water.

• 4. Surfside Beach

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CeWSYbZLPQL/

  Population: 4,470

  Surfside Beach prides itself on being known as the Grand Strand’s “family beach.” Seven public parks make it the perfect place for a game of tennis, bocce, or shuffleboard. The beaches, with several public access points, are cleaned daily and supervised by lifeguards and police.

• 3. Hilton Head Island

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CigPY4duNTO/

  Population: 40,000

  Hilton Head Island is known as America’s Favorite Island® (they even trademarked it). The island features12 miles of beaches, golf, dining, resorts, and relaxation!

• 2. Murrells Inlet

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CgYKs3jLhQj/

  Population: 9,292

  Murrells Inlet has ties back to the pirate Blackbeard. Today,the fishing village is a haven for outdoorsmen. And if fine dining is a priority it’s known as the “seafood capital of South Carolina.”

• 1. Garden City

  https://www.instagram.com/p/CPlMiCuMjgP/

  Population: 11,193

  Garden City Beach is a small beach community directly south of Surfside Beach. It’s where the inlet meets the ocean making it a prime spot for watersports and crabbing. It’s also known for fishing on the pier and surfing.