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Moving to South Carolina in 2024? Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to South Carolina.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to South Carolina.

Are you thinking of moving to South Carolina?

South Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the USA. The state has a rich history and it is one of the original colonies of the US. The climate in South Carolina is sub-tropical with hot humid summers and mild winters. The economy of South Carolina is on the growth path with a diverse job market. The state is home to several Fortune 500 companies. The cost of living in South Carolina is relatively low and you can find jobs in different growing sectors. The state has many schools, colleges and universities that offer quality education for all levels. If you are planning to move to South Carolina, then learn everything in detail before moving there. To simplify the transition, Van Lines Move has prepared a moving guide for South Carolina. This guide will help you learn everything about the state before your move.

South Carolina Demographics

South Carolina is a state with a diverse population and rich history. People from different parts of the world call it their home and create a blended culture. You can explore different demographic details about South Carolina in this section-

Male vs Female Population of South Carolina 2022

Gender	Population	Percent
Male	2,421,827	48.7%
Female	2,538,468	51.3%
Total	4,960,295	100%

Male vs Female Population by Age Groups in South Carolina 2022

Age Group	Male	Female
0-4	121,091	117,230
5-9	119,056	115,327
10-14	117,007	113,125
15-19	115,739	112,006
20-24	109,122	111,956
25-29	105,391	110,989
30-34	103,356	109,124
35-39	101,491	107,258
40-44	99,623	106,348
45-49	97,754	105,043
50-54	95,657	103,225
55-59	93,445	101,045
60-64	89,105	97,768
65-69	79,682	90,938
70-74	69,667	83,598
75-79	56,692	71,322
80-84	40,319	53,110
85 and over	32,713	47,202

Population Distribution by Ethnicity in South Carolina 2022

Ethnicity	Population	Percentage
White	3,417,922	68.9%
Black or African American	1,310,974	26.3%
Hispanic or Latino	282,115	5.7%
Asian	69,189	1.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native	19,129	0.4%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander	5,783	0.1%
Two or more races	75,283	1.5%

Please note that these figures are estimates based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau

Quick Facts of South Carolina

Let us check out some unique features of South Carolina

Columbia is the capital of South Carolina.

The nickname of South Carolina is “The Palmetto State”.

South Carolina is home to various historic sites, beautiful beaches, and several other tourist destinations.

South Carolina is the home producer of tobacco, peaches and peanuts.

The state is home to many famous people like Reese Witherspoon, James Brown and more.

South Carolina is home to the world’s first national park

The state is home to various professional sports teams like the Charlotte Hornets (NBA), the Carolina Panthers (NFL), and more

Tip: While moving the home, safety of your belongings is the priority and you need a trustworthy mover at your side. know the top-rated moving companies in South Carolina.

Top reasons to move to South Carolina

Some top reasons that encourage you to move to South Carolina are-

The cost of living in South Carolina is relatively affordable as compared to other states of the USA.

South Carolina has beautiful beaches and you can find variety among them like rocky beaches, sandy beaches, and secluded beaches.

The job market in South Carolina is diverse as you can find several Fortune 500 companies and a strong manufacturing and tourism industry.

The southern hospitality of South Carolina is famous as people are friendly and warm.

The state is rich in history it is one of the original thirteen colonies and has the site of the Civil War- Fort Sumter.

The climate is appealing as there are mild winters and hot humid summers.

The public school system in South Carolina is ranked 31st in the USA and has various top schools and colleges

A strong culture and abundance of outdoor activities attract people towards South Carolina.

Pros & Cons of Living in South Carolina

Each state has some best features and some worst features and it is very important to know about both sides before deciding on moving there. In this section, we have listed different pros and cons of South Carolina-

Pros of moving to South Carolina	Cons of moving to South Carolina
The cost of living is relatively lower than the other parts of the country	Property taxes are comparatively high
Climate is subtropical with hot, humid summers and mild winters	Summers can be very hot, temperature can range between 90s and 100s
Strong economy with diverse job market	Wages are lower than in the other parts of the country
Rich history, beautiful beaches and southern hospitality are prime features	Traffic can be bad in cities like Columbia and Charleston
Abundant outdoor activities and plenty of museums, theatres and art galleries	State is prone to extreme weather conditions including hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods.
One of the best public school systems

Best Places to Live in South Carolina

Moving to a new state is challenging in many ways and finding the best place to make your home is one of those challenges. So, in this section we have listed some of the best places in South Carolina considering their population, median home value and unemployment rate. Study the table to find the best place for you-

Place	Population	Unemployment Rate	Median Home Value
Mount Pleasant	94,362	3.5%	$389,200
Tega Cay	10,373	3.4%	$478,800
Mauldin	25,052	3.6%	$190,600
Greenville	69,365	3.9%	$237,800
Simpsonville	24,677	3.8%	$279,900
Spartanburg	37,744	4.2%	$213,500
Summerville	50,342	3.7%	$303,100
Goose Creek	46,861	4.2%	$264,000
Rock Hill	74,801	4.1%	$228,900
Florence	37,552	4.3%	$212,600

Tip: When you've got a home to move in South Carolina, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.

Best Neighborhoods in the South Carolina

When you move to a new state or city, you wish to find a home away from your family and friends. A perfect neighborhood will help you find a new home, friends, family and everything you need. So, select your neighborhood carefully before moving there-

Sullivan's Island, Charleston: This neighborhood is known for its charming downtown, beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. This island is a barrier island which is just off the coast of Charleston.

Mount Pleasant, Charleston: If you are looking for a neighborhood with top schools, near the beach and a family-friendly environment, then Mount Pleasant is a perfect location. This is one of the best suburbs of Charleston.

Daniel Island, Charleston: This neighborhood is a planned community that offers high-quality life, unlimited amenities and excellent schools.

Forest Acres, Columbia: This neighborhood is a suburb of Columbia. It is known for family friendly environment and excellent schools. It is in proximity to the city center.

Irmo, Columbia: This is one of the top suburbs of Columbia. It is known for its excellent schools, family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to the city center.

Simpsonville, Greenville: If you are looking for a suburb in Greenville, then Simpsonville is the only destination for you. It has excellent schools, a family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to the city center.

Mauldin, Greenville: Another neighborhood in Greenville is Mauldin, which is also a suburb. This neighborhood offers a family-friendly environment and excellent schools.

You can pick the neighborhood that suits your family's requirements.

Cost of living in South Carolina

The cost of living in South Carolina is relatively lower than the national average. The cost of living in South Carolina is 87.7 when compared to the national average of 100. This implies that the goods and services in South Carolina are 12.3% less expensive than the other parts of the country. Before moving to a new state or city, it is important to learn about the cost of living in that area. This will help you in planning your move efficiently. You can set your moving budget and estimate the cost of your move.

In this section we will explore the cost of living in South Carolina from different perspectives-

Cost of Living by Categories in South Carolina vs USA 2022

Category	South Carolina	United States
Groceries	93.2	100
Housing	78.2	100
Utilities	92.1	100
Transportation	90.4	100
Healthcare	95.3	100
Other	93.5	100

Median House Price in South Carolina vs USA 2022

Location	Median House Price
South Carolina	$315,000
United States	$428,700

Median Rent Price in South Carolina vs USA 2022

Region	Median Rent Price
South Carolina	$1,200
United States	$1,971

Source- Council for Community and Economic Research's 2023 Cost of Living Index

Housing Market in South Carolina

The median home value in South Carolina is $235,000 while the national average is $375,000. Currently, the housing market in South Carolina is strong and the demand for homes is high. The cost of houses has increased in the past year by 3.2%. The strong housing market is due to several factors like low-interest rates, shortage of housing supply, growing economy and more.

Source: South Carolina Association of Realtors: South Carolina Housing Market Trends

Average rental cost in South Carolina

The average rental cost in South Carolina ranges between $950 to $1700 which depends on several factors like property size and property type. The average rental cost can also depend on the location of the property. If you are planning to rent an apartment, it is better to research well before reaching any decision.

Source: Apartment List: South Carolina Rent Prices

Median Home Value in South Carolina

The median home value is $287,600 in South Carolina. There has been an increase of 3.2% in the median home value in South Carolina. The housing market is very competitive in the state so for buying a house you have to act quickly.

Source: South Carolina Association of Realtors

South Carolina job market

Most people move across the states to find a better job or start their career. If you are considering moving to South Carolina for a job opportunity, then you are making the right decision. The economy of the state is growing with a strong job market. The unemployment rate is low in South Carolina and as per the latest statistics, it is only 3.6% in July 2023. The job market in South Carolina is growing and several factors are supporting it like an influx of new businesses, a growing economy, and the presence of different industries in the state.

In this section, we have explored the job market in South Carolina-

Number of Households by Income Level in South Carolina in 2022

Income Level	Number of Households
Less than $25,000	277,044
$25,000 to $49,999	369,882
$50,000 to $74,999	361,771
$75,000 to $99,999	282,621
$100,000 to $149,999	228,788
$150,000 to $199,999	141,550
$200,000 or more	164,663

Median Income in South Carolina vs USA in 2022

Region	Median Income
South Carolina	$64,329
United States	$67,521

Unemployment Rate in South Carolina vs USA in 2022

Region	Unemployment Rate
South Carolina	3.7%
United States	3.6%

Please note that these figures are estimates based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources.

Major industries in South Carolina

When you move to a new state or city and search for a new job, you must also check out the major industries operating in the state. These industries will offer high-paying jobs and you can find better opportunities from time to time. In this section, we have listed all the major industries in South Carolina-

Trade, transportation and warehousing

Education and health services

Healthcare

Professional services

Manufacturing

Hospitality and leisure

You can explore employment opportunities in these sectors.

Source: South Carolina Department of Commerce

Top Career Options in South Carolina

When you move to South Carolina you can find high-paying career options for you. In this section we have compiled data for different job profiles and their average salary and how many employees are available in the market for similar profiles-

Job title	Average salary	Entry level salary	No. of people
Software Engineer	$86,563	$59,946	11,100
Registered Nurse	$71,518	$58,883	26,000
Elementary School Teacher	$56,247	$48,862	17,000
Accountant	$61,472	$56,619	15,600
Customer Service Representative	$35,883	$30,300	41,000

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Note: The data provided in the table are estimates and the average salaries can vary depending on various factors including company, location, and more.

Biggest companies in South Carolina by city and number of employees

South Carolina has a diverse job market with different types of companies flourishing their business. In this section, we have compiled the data of the biggest companies in South Carolina about their location and company size.

Company	City	Employees
Boeing	North Charleston	18,000
Michelin	Greenville	15,000
BMW	Greer	11,000
GE Aviation	Greenville	10,000
Volvo Cars	Ridgeville	4,500
Mercedes-Benz Vans	North Charleston	3,000
Lockheed Martin	Greenville	2,500
Husqvarna	Anderson	2,500
Capgemini	Charleston	2,500
ZF Group	Gray Court	2,500

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Best things to do in South Carolina

Each state has wonderful places with history and beauty that you can explore. In South Carolina, you can do the following things-

Visit Sumter Fort which is a national monument. At this place, the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

Visit Myrtle Beach which is known for its sandy beaches, water parks, amusement parks, and more.

Explore Charleston for its beautiful architecture, horse-drawn carriage, and more.

Visit Congaree National Park and enjoy the beauty of hardwood forests and swampy wetlands.

Explore marine life at the South Carolina Aquarium.

Visit Boeing South Carolina where you can tour the factory and learn how Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft is assembled.

Schools in South Carolina

Finding a perfect educational institution for your child is one major challenge during the move. In this section of our South Carolina state guide, we have compiled a list of the best elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, colleges and universities.

Elementary Schools in South Carolina
East Link Academy, Spartanburg
E.L. Wright Middle, Columbia
Tigerville Elementary, Taylors
Buist Academy, Charleston
Lake Murray Elementary School, Lexington

Middle Schools in South Carolina
Sterling School, Greenville
Augusta Circle Elementary School, Greenville
Tigerville Elementary School, Taylors
Green Charter School, Greenville
Buist Academy, Charleston

High Schools in South Carolina
Academic Magnet High School, Charleston
Southside High School, Greenville
Fort Mill High School , Fort Mill
Wando High School, Mount Pleasant
J. L. Mann High School, Greenville

Colleges and Universities in South Carolina
University of South Carolina, Columbia
Clemson University, Clemson
College of Charleston, Charleston
Furman University, Greenville
Wofford College, Spartanburg

Type of insurance required in South Carolina

Auto Insurance-

In South Carolina, all drivers must have liability insurance which covers the cost of injury and property damage in the event of an accident. The minimum liability coverage required is as follows-

$25,000 bodily injury per person

$50,000 bodily injury per accident

$25,000 property damage per accident

You might need to buy uninsured motorist coverage that will protect you and your passengers if you are hit by a car with no insurance.

Other types of Insurance required-

Homeowners Insurance

Renters Insurance

Condo insurance

Car insurance

Life insurance

Health insurance

Business Insurance

Additional tips-

While choosing insurance coverage, consider your requirements and budget. You can compare quotes from different insurance providers.

The South Carolina Department of Insurance provides all types of information related to insurance in South Carolina. For any details, visit their website.

Always read the policy carefully and ask your insurance provider as many questions as you want.

Keep your insurance policy updated, for any change in personal information connect with your insurance provider and update the details.

If you are in need to file a claim, don’t wait, do it as early as possible.

Review your coverage regularly as your requirements can change from time to time.

Taxes in South Carolina

Taxes are considered one of the major factors while evaluating the cost of living. So, before moving to South Carolina you must know about the different types of taxes in the state-

Income Tax- Individual income tax in South Carolina is between 0% to 6.5%. The top rates apply to the taxable income of $200,000 for single filers and $400,000 for married couples.

Sales Tax- The general sales tax rate in South Carolina is 6% and it can go as high as 7.75%. Sales tax is applied to most goods and services that are either rented or purchased.

Property Tax- In South Carolina, property taxes are assessed and collected by the local governments. The tax rates can vary according to the county and municipality, but they are typically around 1% of the property value.

Vehicle Registration Fees- The registration fees for the vehicle in South Carolina are determined by the weight and age of the vehicle.

Several taxes in addition to these taxes that you might have to pay in South Carolina are-

Excise taxes- These taxes are applied on certain goods and services like tobacco, alcohol and fuel.

Payroll taxes- These taxes are deducted from your paycheck to fund social, security, unemployment insurance and Medicare.

Please note that this is just a general overview of the different types of taxes you may pay in South Carolina. For more specific information, please consult the South Carolina Department of Revenue website.

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FAQs

1. What are the best small towns in South Carolina?

Ans: South Carolina has 12 must-visit small towns in the Palmetto State, each offering unique experiences and a welcoming community:

Beaufort: Known for its historic architecture and scenic riverfront.

Bluffton: Offers a blend of old Southern values with modern luxury.

Summerville: Famous for its flowering azaleas and vibrant spring festivals.

Aiken: A haven for horse enthusiasts and history buffs.

Camden: Steeped in colonial history, offering a glimpse into the past.

Greenville: Surrounded by lush scenery and known for a thriving arts scene.

Georgetown: Features rich history and access to incredible coastal activities.

Walterboro: Offers an escape into nature with its Wildlife Sanctuary.

Cheraw: Known as the "Prettiest Town in Dixie."

Clemson: Vibrant with college-town spirit and cultural offerings.

McClellanville: A quiet fishing village with untouched natural beauty.

Edgefield: Rich in pottery and folk art traditions.

These towns offer a slow-paced lifestyle with a safe and engaging living environment.
2. What are the top 10 things you'll want to know about living in Greenville, SC?

Ans: Discover Greenville, SC: Top 10 Highlights for New Residents

Vibrant Cultural Scene: Greenville boasts a lively cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and live music venues.

Thriving Food Landscape: Greenville offers an impressive array of dining options, from traditional Southern comfort food to international cuisines and everything in between.

Outdoor Paradise: Nature enthusiasts will find Greenville particularly appealing. Some places are perfect for hiking, biking, and camping. The city also has beautifully maintained parks and trails like the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Strong Job Market: Greenville has a robust economy with thriving industries including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.

Excellent Education System: Greenville offers outstanding educational facilities, from primary schools to higher education. Institutions like Furman University contribute to the city’s educational environment.

Strong Community: The city hosts various community events throughout the year that foster a sense of belonging and community engagement.

Climate: Enjoy four distinct seasons where summers are warm and winters are relatively mild.

Affordable Living: Greenville offers a more affordable cost of living. Housing remains relatively reasonable, and residents benefit from lower property taxes.

Healthcare: Access to quality healthcare is easy with numerous hospitals and clinics throughout the city.

Strategic Location: Located conveniently between major cities like Charlotte and Atlanta, Greenville offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
3. What is it like retiring in South Carolina?

Ans: South Carolina offers a plethora of benefits that make it an ideal retirement haven. Here's a closer look at why you might consider this beautiful state for your retirement:

Mild Climate: The state boasts a temperate climate, that allows the elderly to enjoy the climate throughout the year.

Cost of Living: It offers an affordable cost of living with reasonable healthcare costs, low property taxes, and affordable housing options.

Recreational Activities: Whether it's golfing on premier courses, exploring state parks, or enjoying the coastal waters, there’s never a dull moment.

Community: The state is known for its friendly atmosphere, offering a strong sense of community that is welcoming to newcomers.
4. What are the 20 best places to retire in South Carolina in 2024?

Ans: The top 20 destinations in South Carolina that are ideal for retirees seeking a blissful escape:

Charleston

Myrtle Beach

Greenville

Hilton Head Island

Spartanburg

Beaufort

Columbia

Mount Pleasant

Summerville

Aiken

Anderson

Bluffton

North Augusta

Greenwood

Mauldin

Tega Cay

Clemson

Florence

Georgetown

Seneca
5. What is living in Kiawah Island, SC like?

Ans: Living in Kiawah Island, SC, offers the experience of residing in a serene, upscale retreat. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and luxurious amenities, this island near Charleston provides a perfect blend of relaxation and opulence. It has high-end golf courses, sophisticated villas, and a vibrant cultural scene. The island's appeal is enhanced by its commitment to preserving natural beauty while offering plenty of recreational opportunities, making it a highly sought-after location for those looking to enjoy a laid-back yet rich lifestyle.
6. What are 10 things you should know about living in Columbia, SC?

Ans: Top 10 Things to Know Before You Move to Columbia, SC

Vibrant Cultural Scene: Columbia is a cultural epicenter, featuring numerous art galleries, theaters, and museums like the Columbia Museum of Art and the South Carolina State Museum.

Education: Home to the University of South Carolina, Columbia offers top-notch educational resources, contributing to a young and vibrant atmosphere.

History: The city’s history stretches back to the Civil War and beyond, with historic sites that include the South Carolina State House and the Hampton-Preston Mansion.

Festivals and Events: Columbia hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous South Carolina State Fair and the Columbia Food and Wine Festival.

Climate: Enjoy a classic Southern climate with hot summers and mild winters, perfect for outdoor activities nearly all year round.

Job Market: With a thriving economy, Columbia is home to several multinational corporations and a booming job market, particularly in sectors like technology, healthcare, and education.

Cost of Living: Compared to other major U.S. Cities, Columbia offers a lower cost of living, from housing to everyday expenses.

Natural Beauty: The city boasts beautiful parks, rivers, and green spaces such as Finlay Park and the Three Rivers Greenway, ideal for nature lovers.

Community: Columbia is known for its welcoming and diverse community, providing a warm environment for newcomers.

Food scene: From traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors, the food scene in Columbia is an adventure in itself.

If you’re attracted by its rich heritage or the lively feel of its streets, Columbia, SC offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that makes it a wonderful place to live. Whether you’re planning a move or simply exploring, Columbia welcomes you to discover its charms.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.

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