Why Greenville, South Carolina Is One of the Best Places to Retire in America

In recent years, Greenville, South Carolina has been featured by Forbes and HGTV as one of the best retirement destinations in the United States — and for good reason. With its charming downtown, low cost of living, vibrant community events, and top-rated healthcare system, Greenville has quickly become a favorite for retirees looking for a balance of affordability, activity, and Southern charm.

But what exactly makes Greenville stand out among other popular retirement spots? Let’s dive into why this small city continues to win hearts nationwide.

A City That Checks All the Boxes

When experts like Forbes and HGTV compile lists of top retirement destinations, they often look at several key factors:
affordability, lifestyle, healthcare, charm, and recreation. Greenville exceeds expectations in all these categories.

It’s not a beach town, and yes, South Carolina has income taxes — but Greenville more than makes up for that with a rich lifestyle, natural beauty, and an inclusive, active community that welcomes newcomers with open arms.

The Heart of Greenville: A Downtown You’ll Fall in Love With

Downtown Greenville is the city’s crown jewel.

At the center is Falls Park on the Reedy, where waterfalls flow right through the heart of downtown, surrounded by walking paths, gardens, and scenic bridges.

You’ll also find the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a beloved 20-mile greenway that winds through the city and beyond — perfect for walking, running, or biking.

With over 120 local restaurants, boutique shops, and countless events, downtown Greenville never feels stagnant. Year-round festivals like Artisphere and Fall for Greenville bring art, music, food, and fun to the community, giving residents endless opportunities to meet new people and build friendships.

Affordability That Helps You Live Better for Less

Greenville’s cost of living is below the national average, making it an excellent choice for retirees on a fixed income.

Here’s what makes the area especially attractive financially:

• Low property taxes – South Carolina’s effective tax rate is just 0.55%, one of the lowest in the country.

• Retirement-friendly tax policies – Social Security benefits aren’t taxed, and there are deductions for retirement income.

• Homestead exemption – For residents over 65, the first $50,000 of your home’s assessed value is exempt from property taxes.

• Property reassessment cap – Even if home prices rise, your property value can’t increase more than 15% during a reassessment period.

Add in affordable housing, groceries, and gas prices — and it’s easy to see why retirees find Greenville an affordable haven without compromising lifestyle quality.

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Top-Rated Healthcare You Can Count On

Healthcare is a major factor when choosing where to retire — and Greenville delivers exceptional options.

Two major systems serve the area:

• Prisma Health – The region’s largest provider, home to the Level I Trauma Center for adults and Level II for children, plus USC’s School of Medicine Greenville.

• Bon Secours St. Francis – A highly respected, faith-based hospital system recognized as the Best Hospital in the Upstate by U.S. News & World Report.

Both hospitals consistently earn “A” safety ratings and are among America’s Best 250 Hospitals according to Healthgrades.

For specialized care, world-class facilities like Emory (Atlanta), Duke (North Carolina), and MUSC (Charleston) are all within a few hours’ drive.

Families with children or grandchildren will also appreciate Shriner’s Hospital for Children, known for its expertise in pediatric orthopedic and neuromuscular care.

An Active, Enjoyable Lifestyle Year-Round

Retirement in Greenville isn’t about slowing down — it’s about living fully.

For those who love arts and culture, the Peace Center hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and performances all year long.
Nature lovers can explore Paris Mountain State Park or countless local hiking trails. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy several high-quality courses nearby.

Greenville’s mild weather with blue skies most of the year makes it easy to stay outdoors, stay active, and stay happy. Even in summer, Greenville’s higher elevation means less humidity than coastal cities like Charleston or Florida, and winters are pleasantly mild.

Perfectly Positioned for Travel and Adventure

Greenville is conveniently located near major Southeastern destinations.

Atlanta, Charlotte, Asheville, and Charleston are all within a few hours’ drive, making weekend getaways easy.

And with the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport ranked among the best small airports in the U.S., traveling to visit family or explore new destinations is simpler than ever, including an expanding list of direct and international flights.