When people think about retirement in the Southeast, places like Florida or coastal Carolina towns usually come to mind. But in 2025, more retirees than ever are choosing Greenville, South Carolina — and it’s easy to see why.
In fact, about one in every two people relocating to Greenville today is over the age of 50. That’s not just a statistic I’ve seen in national reports — it’s what I see on the ground every day as I help clients buy and sell homes here in the Upstate.
So why are retirees skipping Florida’s beaches or Asheville’s mountains for Greenville? The answer comes down to a mix of cost of living, healthcare, lifestyle, and real estate opportunities. Let’s break it down.
Why Retirees Are Choosing Greenville Over Other Cities
Florida vs. Greenville
Many of my clients originally moved to Florida for retirement — only to discover it wasn’t what they wanted long term. Florida’s “two seasons” (hot and not-as-hot) don’t appeal to everyone. Neither do the hurricanes, rising insurance costs, and strict HOAs that can add thousands per year to the cost of living.
Greenville, on the other hand, offers four distinct but mild seasons without the hurricane risk. You’ll still enjoy warm summers and plenty of sunshine — but also crisp fall leaves and comfortable spring blooms.
Northeast & Midwest vs. Greenville
For retirees from Illinois, New York, or New England, Greenville offers a welcome escape from bitter winters and restrictive state taxes. The lifestyle shift is dramatic: shorter winters, friendlier tax laws, and a community that feels both Southern and cosmopolitan.
Affordability Matters
Greenville’s cost of living sits about 8% below the national average, making it more affordable than Charleston, Asheville, or Florida’s coastal towns. Your retirement dollars simply go further here.
Tax Benefits
South Carolina is widely considered a retirement-friendly state:
No tax on Social Security
Low property taxes (especially compared to the Northeast)
Homestead Exemption: If you’re over 65 and have lived in your home for at least one year, you’ll see hundreds shaved off your annual property tax bill
Healthcare Access
Healthcare is top of mind for retirees — and Greenville delivers. With Prisma Health and Bon Secours headquartered here, plus Spartanburg Regional and AnMed Health nearby, the Upstate offers high-quality care without needing to drive to Atlanta or Charlotte. A new Novant Health hospital is also under construction, further expanding the options.
Lifestyle Balance
Greenville strikes that rare balance of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Food + Wine named Greenville one of the best culinary destinations in the South, and the Michelin Guide recently recognized the city for its emerging restaurant scene. Combine that with the Swamp Rabbit Trail, thriving arts, and plenty of golf and lake access — and you’ve got a retirement lifestyle that’s hard to beat.
Greenville Real Estate Market Snapshot for Retirees (2025)
The average home price in Greenville County is just over $390,000, while the median sales price is about $330,000. Compare that to Charlotte (roughly $430,000+) or Asheville (around $525,000), and Greenville looks like a bargain.
Luxury Market Trends
If you’re looking in the luxury tier, 2025 has been one of the most favorable markets in years. Inventory is sitting at nearly 10 months of supply, and homes are selling for about 96% of list price — giving buyers more leverage than they’ve had in a long time.
Balanced Market
Overall, Greenville’s market is approaching balance, with 4–5 months of inventory. That’s a stark contrast to the bidding wars of 2021–22.
Mortgage Rates
Rates are hovering in the mid-6% range, but many retirees either downsize with equity or purchase in cash — minimizing the impact.
Lifestyle-Driven Choices
The biggest trend among retirees? Choosing low-maintenance lifestyles:
Condos/townhomes downtown
New construction with HOA-covered lawn care
True 55+ active adult communities like Del Webb (new Greenville location opening soon!)
Where Retirees Are Actually Moving in Greenville
Here are the most popular retirement destinations around Greenville in 2025:
1. Downtown Greenville (Condos & Townhomes)
Perfect for a “lock-and-leave” lifestyle. Walk or golf-cart to restaurants, theaters, and the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Prices typically start in the $600s.
2. Simpsonville & Five Forks
Classic suburban living with new construction communities, pools, pickleball courts, and clubhouses. Retirees here love the balance of convenience and community. Homes range from the low $300s to the $600s+.
3. Travelers Rest
Small-town charm just 20 minutes north of downtown Greenville. Popular with outdoor enthusiasts thanks to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Homes start in the mid-$300s, with newer builds in the $500s+.
4. Greenville’s Eastside
An established area with some of the best access to healthcare, shopping, and GSP Airport. Home to luxury neighborhoods like Hartness and Thornblade. Prices typically range from $400s to $800s+.
5. Lake Keowee
Luxury retirement living with boating, golf, and resort-style amenities. Communities like The Reserve at Lake Keowee, The Cliffs, and Keowee Key offer everything from social clubs to marinas. Prices start in the $500s, with waterfront estates topping $1M+.
Why Greenville May Be the Right Choice for Your Retirement
At the end of the day, Greenville is about balance. Retirees come here because they want:
✅ Affordable cost of living
✅ Access to world-class healthcare
✅ Four mild seasons
✅ A mix of small-town feel and big-city amenities
✅ Real estate options for every lifestyle
I’ve helped more than 100 families relocate to the Upstate in the past year alone, many of them over 50. Time and again, they tell me Greenville is the perfect blend of affordability, lifestyle, and community.
If you’re considering your next chapter, Greenville may just be the place to start it.
READ: Locals Spill the Truth About Greenville, SC
Thinking About Moving to Greenville, SC?
I’ve helped many families relocate to Greenville, guiding them through the process and helping them find the right fit for their needs.
Contact us for real estate inquiries:
📱 Call or text: 864-688-9738
📧 Email: [email protected]
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