Where I Would Move to in Greenville If I Were Moving Today — and Why?

If you’re thinking about moving to Greenville, South Carolina, the first question you’ll face is: Where should I live?

Greenville is one of the fastest-growing areas in the Southeast, and it’s attracting people from across the country for its thriving economy, four-season climate, outdoor lifestyle, and vibrant downtown. But the neighborhoods and suburbs each have their own vibe—and choosing the right one comes down to your stage of life, lifestyle goals, and what you value most.

I’ve helped over 100 families relocate to the Upstate in the last year alone—and after walking countless clients through the decision-making process, I know the areas that consistently deliver. If I were personally moving to Greenville today, here are the three places at the top of my list, and why each one might be the right fit for you.

Eastside Greenville: Schools, Convenience & Established Neighborhoods

If top-rated schools and convenience were my priorities, I’d put Eastside Greenville at the top of my list.

This community sits directly east of downtown between Wade Hampton Blvd and I-385, stretching toward Pelham Road, Hudson Road, Brushy Creek, Batesville, and Roper Mountain Road. It’s part of the 29615 and 29650 zip codes and offers quick access to downtown Greenville (15–20 minutes), GSP Airport (under 10 minutes), and major business parks.

Why People Love It

  • Top-Rated Schools: Zoned for Pelham Road Elementary, Greenville Middle, Eastside High, Wade Hampton High, and Riverside High—some of the most sought-after schools in the Upstate.

  • Mature Neighborhoods: Unlike newer suburbs, the Eastside has tree-lined streets, larger or more private lots, and neighborhoods with true character.

  • Lifestyle Convenience: Harris Teeter, Lowes Foods, and Sprouts are all nearby, plus fitness centers and healthcare access without the noise of constant new construction.

Market Snapshot

  • 465 homes hit the market in the past 90 days

  • Average sales price: $455,000

  • Neighborhoods to watch: Carisbrooke, Foxcroft, Pelham Springs, Thornblade, and Botany Woods.

👉 If you’re a retiree looking for proximity to medical care and a walkable community—or a family prioritizing school zones—the Eastside checks a lot of boxes.

Simpsonville & Five Forks: The Suburban Sweet Spot

For families or professionals who want a suburban lifestyle with plenty of options at all price points, Simpsonville is tough to beat.

Spanning the 29680 and 29681 zip codes, Simpsonville is Greenville’s most comprehensive suburb with a population nearing 100,000. It’s only 25–30 minutes from downtown Greenville and the airport, with easy interstate access.

Two Halves of Simpsonville

  • 29680 (West of I-385): Suburban and family-friendly with major corridors like W. Georgia Rd, Standing Springs, and Fairview Rd. Offers a mix of starter homes and established neighborhoods with average sales around $396K. Top schools include Woodmont High.

  • 29681 & Five Forks (East of I-385): Closer to downtown Simpsonville, restaurants like Farm Fresh Fast and Warehouse at Vaughn’s, plus higher-end communities near Woodruff Road. Five Forks in particular has strong appeal for those seeking upscale neighborhoods and convenience. Average price here runs around $474K.

Why People Love It

  • Diverse Housing: Everything from $300K starter homes to $1M+ estates.

  • Family Amenities: Southside Park, shopping on Fairview Road, and highly rated schools.

  • Favorite Neighborhoods: Long Creek Plantation, Waterton, Chestnut Ridge, Lost River, Asheton Springs, and Holly Tree Plantation.

👉 Simpsonville balances affordability with lifestyle—it works for first-time buyers, families needing space, or retirees who want convenience without being far from Greenville.

Travelers Rest: Scenic, Small-Town Charm

If you want mountain-town vibes with community and scenery, Travelers Rest (known locally as TR) is the perfect fit.

Located just 20 minutes northwest of downtown Greenville in the 29690 and 29609 zip codes, TR has grown rapidly while keeping its small-town feel. It sits along the Swamp Rabbit Trail and offers quick access to Paris Mountain, Table Rock, Caesars Head, and even Western North Carolina.

Why People Love It

  • Outdoor Lifestyle: Biking and walking the Swamp Rabbit Trail, hiking nearby state parks, and proximity to Lake Keowee and Lake Jocassee.

  • Vibrant Downtown: Farmhouse Tacos, Tandem Creperie, Topsoil, Swamp Rabbit Brewery, and a seasonal farmers market at Trailblazer Park.

  • Proximity: Only 30 minutes to GSP Airport, 40 minutes to Asheville, and a quick drive to Furman University.

Market Snapshot

  • 425 homes hit the market in the past 90 days

  • Average sales price: $503,000

  • Neighborhoods to watch: Pinestone, Tubbs Mountain Estates, Marion Meadows, and The Cliffs communities (Mountain Park & Valley).

👉 For those seeking slower-paced living with a strong sense of community, Travelers Rest is hard to beat.

Here’s the truth: there’s no single “best” place to live in Greenville—it comes down to fit.

  • If schools and convenience matter most → Look at the Eastside.

  • If you want suburban variety and family amenities → Check out Simpsonville & Five Forks.

  • If you crave scenic beauty and small-town charm → Travelers Rest is your place.

I’ve guided dozens of families into each of these communities, and every one of them offers a high quality of life. It just depends on what your next chapter looks like.

READ: Buyers Regret Moving To THESE Greenville Suburbs

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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