Why Retirees Are Moving to South Carolina in Record Numbers

Retirement for many Americans means finally having the time to enjoy life, whether that’s relaxing on the beach, spending more time with family, or pursuing hobbies that previously had to compete with a 9-to-5 schedule. For a growing number of people, it also means packing up and relocating to a place that offers a better lifestyle. Not to mention South Carolina has a plethora of 55+ communities to choose from, so between Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Charleston, or Greenville, you're sure to find something that fits you. 

According to a recent study, more than 2.1 million Americans aged 65 and older moved in 2025. One state that stood out above the rest was South Carolina, which ranked #1 in the nation for net growth among retirement-age residents.

Many of those new residents relocated from states such as Florida, New York, California, and neighboring states looking for a warmer climate, lower taxes, and a high quality of life.

South Carolina Retirement Migration Trends

While South Carolina led the country in net retirement-age population growth, it did not have the highest total number of inbound moves.

Florida still saw the largest number of retirees relocating there overall. However, Florida also had the highest number of retirees leaving the state, with more than 44,000 residents aged 65 and older moving away in 2025.

Because fewer retirees are leaving South Carolina compared to the number moving in, the state experienced a net increase of 5,427 retirement-age residents in 2025, giving it the top ranking nationally.

For many retirees, South Carolina isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place they actually decide to stay.

South Carolina Cities Attracting the Most Retirees

According to rankings from Moving.net, several South Carolina cities are seeing strong demand from retirement-age movers.

Top South Carolina Cities for Retirement Moves

1. Myrtle Beach – 2,593 retirement-age moves (Rank #61 nationally)
2. Greenville – 1,538 moves (Rank #121)
3. Summerville – 1,501 moves (Rank #126)
4. Columbia – 1,430 moves (Rank #137)
5. Charleston – 1,217 moves (Rank #167)

Each of these areas offers something different, from coastal living and golf communities to walkable historic districts and growing suburban neighborhoods.

For many retirees searching online for “best places to retire in South Carolina” or “coastal retirement communities in SC,” these cities consistently appear near the top of the list.

Why South Carolina Is a Top Retirement Destination

According to insights from AARP, several key factors make South Carolina especially attractive for retirees.

1. Mild Climate and Year-Round Sunshine

South Carolina offers warm weather that retirees love, but often without the extreme summer heat seen in some other southern states. In short: plenty of sunshine, fewer months feeling like you’re walking through a sauna.

2. Outdoor Lifestyle and Recreation

From Atlantic Ocean beaches to lakes, rivers, golf courses, and parks, retirees have no shortage of activities. Popular activities include:

• Golf
• Boating
• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Walking trails
• Beach living

This makes the state especially appealing for people seeking an active retirement lifestyle.

3. Diverse Places to Live

One of the biggest advantages of retiring in South Carolina is the variety of locations available. Retirees can choose from:

• Coastal communities
• Historic cities
• Quiet small towns
• Lakefront properties
• Mountain areas in the Upstate

This diversity allows buyers to find a home that fits both their lifestyle and budget.

4. Lower Property Taxes and Cost of Living

While housing prices have increased in recent years, South Carolina still remains more affordable than many retirement hotspots around the country.

The state is particularly appealing because of:

• Relatively low property taxes
• Favorable tax treatment for retirees
• Lower overall cost of living compared to many coastal states

For retirees living on fixed income or retirement savings, these financial advantages can make a big difference.

5. Rich History, Culture, and Southern Charm

South Carolina has a deep and complex history, including significant Civil War sites and important landmarks related to American history. Historic districts, museums, and preserved architecture provide plenty to explore for residents who enjoy culture and heritage.

It also doesn’t hurt that the state is known for hospitality, something many retirees appreciate once they arrive.

FAQs About Retiring in South Carolina

Is South Carolina a good state to retire in?

Yes. South Carolina consistently ranks among the best states for retirement due to its warm climate, coastal lifestyle, lower taxes, outdoor recreation, and relatively affordable housing compared to many other coastal states. South Carolina offers both coastal and mountain regions, and a flourishing healthcare system in the major cities. 

Why are retirees leaving Florida and moving to South Carolina?

Many retirees are choosing South Carolina because it can offer a similar warm climate and coastal lifestyle with lower property taxes, less congestion, and often more affordable housing options. Florida is also home to more crime, and a faster paced lifestyle once you get outside of the 55+ community you live in. 

What are the most popular cities to retire in South Carolina?

Some of the most popular cities attracting retirees include Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, and Summerville due to their amenities, healthcare access, and lifestyle opportunities. The cities with the best healthcare are important for retirees, and Charleston is home to MUSC (ranked highest in SC), Greenville also has a great hospital rating, with the Columbia region coming in 3rd. 

Is South Carolina affordable for retirees?

Compared to many retirement destinations across the United States, South Carolina is considered relatively affordable. Lower property taxes and a lower cost of living help many retirees stretch their retirement savings further. Although, in the Charleston SC area, the most popular, the home prices are higher than the national average.