10 Pros and Cons of Living in South Carolina

Known for its sandy beaches, golf courses, historic landmarks, and welcoming culture, South Carolina also known as the Palmetto State, has something for everyone. Find yourself wandering down the streets of colorful buildings in downtown Charleston or enjoy roaming with monkeys at the famous Morgan Island. Whether you’re checking out apartments for rent in North Augusta, or wondering what’s it like living in Greenville, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top ten pros and cons of living in South Carolina to help you decide if South Carolina is a good place to live.

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Quick Facts about South Carolina

Population
5,118,425

Median home sale price
$388,100

Average rent in South Carolina
$1,503

Largest cities in South Carolina
Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston

Pros of living in South Carolina

1. The state has beautiful landscapes

The Palmetto State is a nature lover’s paradise. The state has beautiful, diverse landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwest corner to the beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.

The state is home to more than 30 state parks and multiple national forests ready to explore. There are also several botanical gardens in South Carolina, including the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and Charleston Tea Garden.

2. Seafood is abundant in South Carolina

If you love seafood, you’ll feel right at home in South Carolina, as it’s known for its fresh seafood. The state’s long coastline and rivers allow fishers to catch various seafood, including shrimp, oysters, and crabs.

Living in Myrtle Beach, you’ll be well accustomed to the various seafood restaurants there. Check out seafood icons such as the Hot Fish Club and try the Lobster Pot Pie. If you want to create your dish, Southern Carolina also has several seafood markets where you can buy fresh fish to prepare at home.

3. The weather is gorgeous

South Carolina has a subtropical climate, so you’ll enjoy warm weather all year round. The average temperature in the state is 61 degrees Fahrenheit perfect for any occasion. The state experiences all four seasons, but winters are relatively mild and short. Spring and fall are the best times in South Carolina, as the weather is perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the 345 ft. hanging Liberty Bridge in Greenville Falls Park.

4. Water activities will keep you occupied 

Living in coastal cities like Myrtle Beach allows you to enjoy various water sports all year. With187 miles of coastline, the state offers plenty of easy access to swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, and so much more.  

Many state parks have other lakes where you can also go fishing, canoeing, or boating. South Carolina is the perfect place to call home if you love the water.

5. South Carolina has a rich history

You’ll love living in South Carolina if you’re a history buff. The state was one of the 13 original colonies in the US and played a significant role in the Civil War. Charleston, the state’s capital, is known for its well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in South Carolina include Fort Sumter and the Aiken-Rhett House.

Cons of living in South Carolina

Along with the pros, there are several cons of living in South Carolina that should be considered including extreme weather and pests. More on this below.

1. Significant income and sales taxes

South Carolina’s income and sale taxes are relatively high, especially compared to its neighbors. The state sales tax is 6%, while its bordering states like North Carolina have 4.75% and Georgia at 4%. Utilities, transportation, and healthcare are also relatively expensive in South Carolina, so if you are on a fixed income, consider checking out the most affordable Charleston suburbs. And if you’re deciding which city to call home, using tools like a cost of living calculator will help you make an informed decision and help you budget your expenses.

2. South Carolina is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms

South Carolina is located in the southeastern United States, making it one of the most vulnerable states to be impacted by hurricanes and tropical storms. Floods, strong winds, and tornadoes are a few of the common disasters that follow. If you want to live in South Carolina, take the necessary steps to prepare your house for a hurricane or a tropical storm.

3. You’ll need to keep an eye out for alligators 

Alligators are common in South Carolina, especially in the coastal marshes. The state has an estimated population of 100,000 alligators. These giant reptiles can damage property, invade yards and kill pets, making them a concern among locals and visitors. Be cautious at Lake Marion, which is located between Columbia and Charleston, and is one of South Carolina’s most alligator-infested lakes. 

4. You will have to deal with bugs

Since the climate is warm, South Carolina is home to many types of bugs, including mosquitoes, fire ants, termites, and cockroaches. These pests carry diseases and make life difficult for residents. Mosquitoes are more problematic in the summer and can become a nuisance.

Termites can damage homes and other structures, making them a significant concern for homeowners. If you’re moving to South Carolina, be prepared to deal with these pesky bugs by using bug spray, mosquito nets, and hiring an exterminator. And if you’re looking for a home, schedule a pest and termite inspection. 

5. The summers are hot and humid

While the weather in South Carolina is generally mild, the summers can get hot and humid. Temperatures in the summer months exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on where you live, the weather in the summer can make outdoor activities challenging to enjoy. If your new home doesn’t have AC, you may want to consider ways to heatproof your home. 

Methodology: The population data is from the United States Census Bureau and the median home sale price and average rent is from the Redfin Data Center.

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