SC has 2 of the best places to live in the South — one spot ranked 1st, Travel + Leisure says
South Carolina has been among the top go to states for a while now.
In recent years, South Carolina has ranked among the fastest-growing states — and in 2023 it ranked first, according to the latest U.S. Census data. The Palmetto State’s population grew by 1.7% to a total of 5,373,555 as of July 1. South Carolina was followed closely behind by Florida and Texas, both at 1.6% population growth. In fact, southern states have seen the most growth the last few years.
But while South Carolina and the South are on the rise overall, which spots are truly the best places to live?
Travel + Leisure recently tried to find out.
The popular travel publication spoke to several southern real estate experts to compile a list of the best places to live in the South. Their rankings were based on standards of living, access to recreational activities and housing opportunities.
Of the top 10 spots in the South, two places in South Carolina made the cut. Check them out below.
Charleston
The city of Charleston ranked first on the list and it’s not hard to understand why. The city is positively dripping with historic charm. Plus, it’s loaded with a vast array of top tier restaurants to eat at and things to do.
“Its proximity to the ocean and vibrant nightlife are magnificent,” Christine Quillin, an affiliate broker and partner with Parks Real Estate at Compass, said to Travel + Leisure. “It is truly suitable for young professionals and families looking to plant their roots.”
Zillow data shows that the average Charleston home value is currently about $567,000 — higher than the overall U.S. housing market average of around $360,000. However, you’re more likely to find better deals away from downtown Charleston.
It’s a “charming escape from busy city life and [has] an easy-going lifestyle,” John Darby, president and CEO of The Beach Company, told Travel + Leisure. The city is also seeing “newer communities such as Kiawah River attracting [both] locals and out-of-towners discovering the sea island lifestyle.”
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach came in at a respectable sixth place on the list.
Mostly known as a tourist town, Myrtle Beach made the ranking mainly because of it relatively lower home prices, Travel + Leisure writes.
According to Zillow, the average Myrtle Beach home value is currently about $308,000. Also, Redfin states that homes sold for a median price of $286,000 in April 2024.
“Given the city’s association with tourism, it’s no surprise that leisure is a top priority in the area,” Travel + Leisure writes. “Myrtle Beach has a number of golf courses, two beautiful state parks, and a seemingly endless number of places to swim, fish, sunbathe, and go boating — all of which can be equally enjoyed by retirees, families, and young professionals.”
10 best places to live in the South
Here is the full list of the 10 best places to live in the South in 2024.
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Lafayette, Louisiana
- Dallas, Texas
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Franklin, Tennessee
- Richmond, Virginia
- Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Huntsville, Alabama
