SC has 2 of the 25 best cities to live in the Southeast, national marketer says. Here’s why

Columbia was one of two South Carolina cities to make Livability.com’s 25 best places to live in the Southeast.

The other was perennial favorite of practically every list there is: Charleston.

Columbia ranked No. 24; Charleston 16. The top spot went to John’s Creek, Georgia, an Atlanta suburb.

Livability said of Columbia: “While it is often overshadowed by other cities in the state, Columbia, SC is a charming city offering residents a vibrant and active lifestyle without compromising on crucial must-haves like safety and healthcare.”

The website swooned about downtown Columbia’s revitalization and an up-and-coming arts and culture scene.

“Coupled with its proximity to both beaches and mountains and affordable cost of living, can you really go wrong here,” the website said.

Of course the website mentioned the hot and humid summers, but noted nearby trails and waterfalls and the city’s location, midway from the mountains and the beach.

The website listed activities such as live performances, art film showings and public art collections as well as family fun at Columbia Children’s Theatre or Richland Library.

“The city is even home to two professional ballet companies and a professional theatre company,” the website said.

Charming Charleston was the theme of the write-up about South Carolina’s first city.

“The city is an exciting combination of history, hospitality and culture,” the website said. “Mild winters, beautiful landscapes, great golf and an unmatched culinary scene all further contribute to the good life in Charleston.”

The website noted career opportunities in Charleston, something not usually mentioned in all the lists Charleston has been on, including named best small city by Conde Nast so often it is on the hall of fame list.

Livability cited job opportunities in fields such as life sciences, defense and logistics.

“Charleston has become known as “Silicon Harbor” because of all of the tech companies expanding and setting up shop here, and this beach town is a haven for entrepreneurs,” the website states.

Mentioned were Boeing and Mercedes-Benz Vans.

Boeing South Carolina, located on the grounds of the joint-use Charleston Air Force Base and Charleston International Airport, is the final assembly and delivery point for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Boeing opened the plant in July 2011. It is also home to Boeing Research & Technology, IT Center of Excellence, Propulsion Systems, Interiors Responsibility Center, and Engineering Design Center. About 7,500 people are employed there.

Mercedes-Benz Vans, located in Ladson, assembles Sprinter vans The $500 million plant opened in 2018 and employs 1,600.