The Hottest Smaller Suburbs Around Greenville, SC

It’s July in Greenville, SC — and it’s not just the weather that’s heating up. The suburbs around Greenville are some of the hottest housing markets in the Upstate right now.

If you’re thinking about moving to Greenville but want more breathing room, lower housing costs, or that “small town with access to everything” lifestyle, you’ll want to keep an eye on these four booming suburbs: Piedmont, Fountain Inn, Inman, and Woodruff.

Each of these areas offers its own character, conveniences, and price points. Let’s dive in.

Piedmont, SC: Small-Town Roots with Big Growth Ahead

Located southwest of Greenville, Piedmont offers quiet living about 20–30 minutes from downtown Greenville.

Why People Love Piedmont

  • Affordable new construction – One of the hottest Upstate markets for builders.

  • Great schools – Zoned for Woodmont High (Greenville County) or the highly regarded Wren School District (Anderson County).

  • Convenient access – Quick routes to I-85, GSP Airport, Simpsonville, Easley, and Atlanta.

Until recently, Piedmont was a sleepy mill town. But with the Piedmont Area Plan, change is underway. The historic Mercantile building is being revitalized with restaurants, coffee shops, and a taproom. Plans are also in place to extend the Swamp Rabbit Trail into Piedmont, making the area far more walkable.

Real Estate in Piedmont

  • Average sales price (last 6 months): $352K (~340 properties sold).

  • Home styles: Mill homes, mid-20th century houses ($275K–$400K), farmland, and plenty of new builds.

  • Notable communities:

    • Riverwood Farms (Meritage Homes) – Over 100 homesites, pool, pickleball courts, and a playground.

    • Woodglen (DRB Homes) – Just around the corner.

    • Rivers Edge (Trust Homes) – Another rising option.

👉 Piedmont is ideal if you want affordability, new construction options, and future walkability upgrades — while staying close to both Greenville and Anderson.

Fountain Inn, SC: Community Charm with Modern Growth

Head south of Simpsonville and you’ll find Fountain Inn, one of the fastest-growing small towns in the Upstate.

Why People Love Fountain Inn

  • Small-town vibe – A quaint downtown with restaurants, shops, and community events.

  • Entertainment & dining – Favorites like The Mill at Fountain Inn (brewery, food hall, outdoor stage) and The Farehouse.

  • Family-friendly perks – Splash pad for kids and plenty of green space.

  • Great access – Only 10–15 minutes to Simpsonville’s Fairview Road, 20 minutes to Greenville’s Woodruff Road, 30 minutes to downtown Greenville.

Real Estate in Fountain Inn

  • Average sales price (last 6 months): $315K (~400 properties sold).

  • Communities to know:

    • Durbin Meadows (DR Horton) – Clubhouse, pool, pickleball courts, pond.

    • Cedar Gap

    • Southgrove (Trust Homes) – Popular with relocating families.

    • Mulberry Estates (DR Horton) – Conveniently near Bobby’s BBQ, a local staple.

👉 Fountain Inn is perfect for buyers who want small-town charm, affordability, and easy access to Simpsonville and Greenville.

Inman, SC: Gateway to Spartanburg Growth

Located northeast of Greenville and northwest of Spartanburg, Inman is gaining serious attention.

Why People Love Inman

  • Proximity to Spartanburg – Only 15 minutes north of downtown Spartanburg, which is undergoing hundreds of millions in revitalization.

  • Easy travel – Near I-26 and I-85 with GSP Airport just 20 minutes away.

  • Outdoor lifestyle – Future home of the Saluda Grade Trail, a 32-mile rail trail (with long-term plans to extend 100+ miles) connecting Inman to Zirconia, NC.

Real Estate in Inman

  • Average sales price (last 6 months): $355K (~200 properties sold).

  • Home styles: Farmland, older homes, and tons of new construction starts.

  • Communities to watch:

    • Cottages at Lake Emory (Mungo Homes) – Several of my clients have purchased here.

    • Hawthorne Ridge

    • Innova Estates – Sleek, modern designs.

    • Lake Bowen – For buyers seeking lake living.

👉 Inman is an excellent choice for buyers looking to get in early on Spartanburg County’s growth while staying under Greenville prices.

Woodruff, SC: Affordable Growth with Big Industry Backing

About 15 years ago, Woodruff was a quiet, two-horse town. But with BMW’s expansion and growth along Woodruff Road, this area has been transformed.

Why People Love Woodruff

  • Strong job growth – Proximity to BMW and related suppliers.

  • Small-town charm – A cute downtown surrounded by pastureland and estates.

  • Convenience – Access to Highways 101 & 221, plus I-26 to Spartanburg.

Real Estate in Woodruff

  • Average sales price (last 6 months): $299K (~350 properties sold).

  • Communities to know:

    • Lakestone (DR Horton)

    • Hunters Ridge (DR Horton)

    • Rutledge Estates (Dream Finders Homes)

    • PineBrook (DRB Homes) – Newer homes with larger lots.

👉 Woodruff offers one of the most affordable entry points into the Upstate, with strong long-term upside thanks to industrial expansion and proximity to both Greenville and Spartanburg.

Which Suburb is Right for You?

If you’re looking for affordability, small-town living, and access to Greenville’s amenities, these four suburbs are among the best bets in 2025:

  • Piedmont – Best for affordability + future walkability upgrades.

  • Fountain Inn – Best for small-town charm + proximity to Simpsonville/Greenville.

  • Inman – Best for proximity to Spartanburg + trail lovers.

  • Woodruff – Best for affordability + job growth near BMW.

READ: The Suburbs of Greenville That You’ll Actually Love

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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