Which of these South Carolina cities is your favorite?
One website compiled a list of the best places to live in South Carolina, and a few of them are close to the CSRA. It is a beautiful state that has so much to offer! Whether it’s mountains, cities, or gorgeous coastline, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
You have the historical aspect and south charm with cities like Charleston. And the beaches at Myrtle, Hilton Head, Fripp, and more. Then you have city life with countless opportunities for work, entertainment, great food and more.
For those of us who have lived in the south, you can’t forget that true souther hospitality. You’ll find a lot of it throughout the Palmetto State for sure.
The question is, where are the best places to live in South Carolina?
Rent.com has compiled a list, and included a few places right here near the CSRA! Scroll down the see our prized cities that made the list, plus the other cities that have so much to offer!
And also, check out the best chili in South Carolina too!
Aiken
Aiken is home to the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame.
- Population: 30,869
- Average age: N/A
- Median household income: $56,199
- Average commute time: 23.2 minutes
- Walk score: 20
- Studio average rent: N/A
- One-bedroom rent: $825
- Two-bedroom rent: $849
Aiken is a beautiful equestrian town, and home to world-class stables and equine training. It was named the “South’s Best Small Town” by Southern Living, and for good reason. In Aiken you’ll find history and cultural activities, plus great food and wonderful locally owned business too.
It’s great for young people with affordable living, but also great for retirees as well.
North Augusta
- Population: 23,845
- Average age: N/A
- Median household income: $59,931
- Average commute time: 22.7 minutes
- Walk score: 33
- Studio average rent: N/A
- One-bedroom rent: $1,089
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,665
North Augusta is a beautiful town right across the Savannah River from Augusta. It has one of the highest-rated school systems in the state and excellent healthcare is easily accessible. There are so many beautiful sights and landscapes, and being right on the river means there are a lot of events and fun for everyone. And you can’t forget the North Augusta Greeneway enjoyed by many locals and visitors for walking, running and biking.
Columbia
- Population: 133,734
- Average age: 37.2
- Median household income: $47,286
- Average commute time: 19.2 minutes
- Walk score: 35
- Studio average rent: $1,083
- One-bedroom rent: $961
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,095
It’s the state’s capital, but still offers affordable living with a small-town feel. You have the University of South Carolina, which means football is a big part of the town. Plus, there are great events to celebrate art, culture and history. Not to mention great food and entertainment. And you also have Lake Murray and Congaree National Park to enjoy the great outdoors!
Greenville
- Population: 63,844
- Average age: 41.4
- Median household income: $56,609
- Average commute time: 21.8 minutes
- Walk score: 39
- Studio average rent: $1,219
- One-bedroom rent: $1,146
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,384
A little farther away from the CSRA, you have Greenville, South Carolina. This is one of the state’s fastest-growing cities. It offers many economic opportunities, and gorgeous scenery with a milder climate. You have many great culinary options, plus world-class shopping and farmers markets to enjoy. The cost to live here is higher than a lot of cities in South Carolina, but most of that is due to the economic opportunities, healthy lifestyles and great school systems.
