Situated in the southeastern United States, South Carolina emerges as an appealing choice for retirees seeking a blend of coastal beauty, southern charm, and cultural richness.

Boasting a diverse landscape that includes pristine beaches, historic cities, and lush low-country marshlands, the Palmetto State offers retirees a wide range of experiences to suit different tastes and interests. With its mild climate, affordable cost of living, and renowned healthcare facilities, South Carolina provides retirees with a welcoming and relaxed environment to enjoy their golden years.

Is South Carolina a good place to live for retirees?

If you’re shopping around for a place to retire, you can’t go wrong with South Carolina. The warm climate, low cost of living, and abundance of attractions make it ideal for retirees.

Is South Carolina tax-friendly for seniors?

South Carolina is very tax-friendly to seniors. If you’re comparing North Carolina and South Carolina, South Carolina has better tax benefits for seniors for a comparable climate and locales.

South Carolina does not tax your Social Security benefits, and withdrawals from private retirement accounts are only partially taxed. There’s also no inheritance or estate tax, another thing to keep in mind if you’re looking to pass down assets to children or grandchildren.

Do seniors in South Carolina pay property taxes over 65?

In addition to the income tax benefits, South Carolina retirees can claim an exemption on the first $50,000 of value on their home, reducing their local property taxes.

What benefits do seniors get in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s Department on Aging has a number of programs for seniors, including resources for those with Alzheimer’s, help with chronic disease management, legal assistance, and emergency planning for those living in coastal areas at high risk for hurricanes and other extreme weather events.

Where is the best place to retire in South Carolina?

If you’re considering a move, first take a look at the best places to retire in South Carolina to see how it stacks up.

Fountain Inn

CITY POPULATION: 10,416

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 9.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 5.7% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $275,810

MEDIAN RENT: $1,810

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

If you’re looking for a town with more of a rural feel, Fountain Inn is worth considering. The area often ranks on lists of the cheapest place to live in South Carolina, but you’ll also have plenty to do, including a museum, performing arts center, and parks.

Beaufort

CITY POPULATION: 13,607

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 14.8%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.5% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $381,604

MEDIAN RENT: $2,300

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

A thriving 65+ population makes Beaufort one of the best retirement communities in South Carolina. The city not only has plenty of beautiful outdoor areas, thanks to its coastal location, but you’ll also get historic attractions and arts and culture.

Bluffton

CITY POPULATION: 27,716

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 20.7%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.2% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $489,543

MEDIAN RENT: $2,375

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Rich history and coastal living make Bluffton one of the top 10 retirement communities in South Carolina. Its small-town charm and access to amenities helped put it on Southern Living’s list of the best places to retire in South Carolina 2020.

Greenville

CITY POPULATION: 70,720 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 13.4% COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 5.4% below the national average MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $295,094 MEDIAN RENT: $1,739 TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

As one of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina, Greenville offers access to the suburban lifestyle at a much lower cost. You can find a little bit of everything in Greenville, from picturesque outdoor areas and festivals to restaurants and healthcare.

Charleston

CITY POPULATION: 150,227

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 16.2%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 4.9% above the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $531,165

MEDIAN RENT: $2,700

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

When you ask if South Carolina is a good place to live, many residents will cite Charleston as an example. Although Charleston can be a bit touristy, retiring in Charleston is great if you love history, culture, and access to every amenity you could want.

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Hilton Head Island

CITY POPULATION: 37,661

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 39.2%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.4% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $736,443

MEDIAN RENT: $2,995

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

If you want to take advantage of the break on South Carolina income tax for retirees but you have a little more money to spend, consider Hilton Head Island. This well-known, picturesque beach town is a popular retirement destination, with a much higher than average 65+ population.

Myrtle Beach

CITY POPULATION: 35,682

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 22.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.9% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $299,291

MEDIAN RENT: $1,800

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Beach-bound retirees should take a look at Myrtle Beach, which has long been one of the best places to retire in the South. The low cost of living puts it toward the top of the list when it comes to beach life.

Spartanburg

CITY POPULATION: 38,732

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 17.5%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 9.9% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $210,584

MEDIAN RENT: $1,395

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

If you prefer the mountains to the beach, Spartanburg should top your list of good places to live in South Carolina. You’ll get plenty of outdoor activities, breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a bustling downtown area packed with restaurants and shopping.

Columbia

CITY POPULATION: 136,632

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 11.3%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 3.6% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $220,612

MEDIAN RENT: $1,457

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

If access to healthcare is your top concern, Columbia is one of the best areas to live in South Carolina. Columbia offers top-class healthcare at Lexington Medical Center, multiple 65+ communities, and all the shopping and dining options you could want.

Greenwood

CITY POPULATION: 22,545

SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 15.4%

COST OF LIVING FOR RETIREES: 6.1% below the national average

MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $171,593

MEDIAN RENT: $895

TAX RATING FOR RETIREES: Tax Friendly

Greenwood is one of the best towns to retire in South Carolina due to its scenic lake views. You’ll get small-town living without sacrificing access to dining, healthcare, and shopping.

Bottom Line

Does South Carolina tax retirement income? No, and that makes it a great option for retirement. As you consider various areas, keep in mind the cost of living and weigh that against the benefits of living in that area. As you’re considering where you’ll spend your retirement, a Certified Financial Planner can work with you to ensure you have enough money set aside to enjoy it.

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