SC had biggest net gains in retirees in US for 2025, data shows. These 5 cities got the most

Retirement for many Americans means spending the rest of their lives enjoying what they love to do most, whether that’s sunbathing on a beach or relaxing with their family.

It also often means it’s time to relocate.

According to a study from Hire A Helper, a moving service marketplace, over 2.1 million Americans aged 65 and older decided to move in 2025.

And South Carolina seemed the most appealing to many of those movers. In 2025, SC ranked No. 1 nationally for net retirement-age growth, driven by strong inbound migration from Florida, New York, California and neighboring states.

What was SC’s net growth?

Many older individuals living in SC felt no need to leave the state. SC had a net-growth of 5,427 residents aged 65 years and older in 2025.

While SC had the highest net growth of any other state, it didn’t lead the country in terms of total inbound moves. Florida had the highest total inbound moves by retirement-age individuals, followed by Texas, California, Arizona, North Carolina, and finally, South Carolina.

Here’s the ranking and their numbers:

Florida had more than triple the number of retirement-age moves than SC, so how come Florida didn’t lead the nation in terms of total net-growth?

It’s because Florida also had the highest number of retirement-age individuals moving elsewhere. Over 44,000 Floridians 65 years or older left the state in 2025.

SC cities with the most retirees

Hire A Helper ranks the nation’s top 200 cities in terms of older adult moves, five of which were in SC.

• 1. Myrtle Beach had 2593 retirement-age moves - rank 61
• 2. Greenville had 1538 retirement-age moves - rank 121
• 3. Summerville had 1501 retirement-age moves - rank 126
• 4. Columbia had 1430 retirement-age moves - rank 137
• 5. Charleston had 1217 retirement-age moves - rank 167

Why is SC a top retirement-age destination?

SC is a premium location for retirement-age individuals and offers plenty of benefits, according to the AARP, a national nonprofit for older Americans. However, there are five main reasons why the state looks so appealing:

• 1. Climate: It’s not as hot compared to Florida, and the summers won’t be as unbearably warm.
• 2. Outdoor recreation: With plenty of beaches to choose from, retirees can go kayaking, fishing or just hang out. SC is also famous for its golf.
• 3. Diverse landscapes: There are a few main cities like Myrtle Beach, Charleston and Columbia, but there are also plenty of charming smaller towns to choose from. Retirees can live near the ocean, lakes or even mountains.
• 4. Lowcountry living: Housing costs have gone up over the years, but compared to other states, SC is still much more affordable. With some of the lowest property taxes in the nation, retirees can more effectively save their money.
• 5. History and culture: SC has some of the darkest histories in the country, regarding the Civil War and the past treatment of African Americans. For history buffs, the state provides an opportunity to learn of this history through historic sites, military parks and museums.