The Best Small Towns in South Carolina for 2025: 14 Hidden Gems From the Mountains To the Coast

If you’re looking to relocate to a place that offers a slower pace of life, a safe environment, and many activities to keep you engaged, you can’t go wrong with one of the best small towns in South Carolina. The Palmetto State has a lot going for it. From the stunning Atlantic Coast and barrier islands to the lush interior landscape full of natural beauty, it’s no wonder this state is one of the most popular relocation destinations in the U.S. — the top state to move to in 2025. That great year-round weather and lower cost of living could be just what you need if you’re considering starting fresh. 

South Carolina Cities vs. the Best Small Towns in South Carolina

Larger cities in South Carolina may get a lot of attention — in fact, moving to Charleston made the top 10 list of relocation destinations for 2025, and living in Myrtle Beach and Greenville are also super popular these days. But there is definitely something to be said about choosing a small South Carolina town instead. Although larger cities have more housing options, they also generally come with higher costs of living, particularly in historic areas like some of the best Charleston neighborhoods. Crime is also typically higher in bigger metro areas in South Carolina, which is an unfortunate reality in most cities across the U.S. Opting for a safer small town in South Carolina could be the right choice for you for a variety of reasons:

• In smaller towns, you have more space to yourself and don’t have to deal with the congestion of urban cities.
• There are small towns all over South Carolina, so whether you want a small beach town to retire to or would like something with access to parks and nature for your kids, there’s something for everyone.
• Small towns generally offer a lower cost of living, so you can likely better afford the house or apartment of your dreams.
• The communities of small South Carolina towns are unmatched. The community pride runs deep here!

Planning a move to South Carolina? Start by getting a free moving quote from PODS.

Small Towns in South Carolina — FAQs

Q: What is the best small town in South Carolina to live in?
A: While there are a lot of fabulous small South Carolina towns, Clemson takes a top 10 spot on USA Today’s list of 2025’s Best Small Towns in the South. Any one of the charming, pretty towns in South Carolina could take the title of “best” — but it’s impossible to choose!

Q: What is the most quaint town in South Carolina?
A: When “quaint” and “charming” lead your list of essential attributes, choosing one favorite from the best towns to live in South Carolina isn’t easy. Our top choices include Travelers Rest, Georgetown, Newberry, and Beaufort — which also make this year’s World Atlas 2025 list of the cutest towns in South Carolina. 

Q: Where is the nicest place to live in South Carolina?
A: That depends on whether you’re a beach lover or more of a woods-and-trails enthusiast. If you want a small coastal town in South Carolina, consider Edisto Beach, where a slow pace attracts retirees and families looking for a peaceful vibe. If inland is more your style, Newberry is definitely one of the nicest places to live in South Carolina. HGTV agrees: This sweet destination was named one of the best small towns in America for 2025.

Q: What is the safest small town in South Carolina?
A: Tega Cay is consistently named among the safest places in South Carolina, according to NeighborhoodScout, with a crime rate of just 47 — which means it’s safer than almost half of all US cities. Statewide across South Carolina, there’s a 1 in 212 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 46 chance for property crime. 

Q: Is it cheaper to live in SC or FL?
A: Naturally, it depends on which cities we’re comparing, as each state has both expensive and affordable cities. Generally speaking, though, South Carolina is more affordable: The Palmetto State’s cost of living is almost 11 percent below the national average, and Florida’s is about 3 percent higher than the national average.

Best Small Towns in South Carolina

Before we get into our list of the best small towns in South Carolina, we wanted to clarify what we consider a small town. The U.S. Census designates small towns as those with populations under 5,000 people. However, we’ve decided to expand this to include towns and cities with a population of up to 50,000 to give the list a good mix of true-blue small towns while including other places worth your while if you're looking to get out of the big city.

If you don’t see your small town, let us know in the comments what makes it a great place to live in the Palmetto State! And without further adieu, here are our top 13 small South Carolina towns (in no particular order).

Residents of Landrum — one of the best small towns in South Carolina — get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

1. Landrum, SC

• Average rent (all home sizes): $2,000
• Average home value: $331,700
• Great for: Cost of living, families, schools, jobs, housing, outdoor activities

In the northern part of South Carolina, the beautiful small town of Landrum sits very close to the North Carolina border. This quaint town is right in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, making it one of the most picturesque areas in the state. This historic town was incorporated in 1883 and boasts a vibrant downtown district full of local eateries and plenty of stores to browse.

You’ll love how close the Chestnut Ridge Heritage Preserve is when you want to explore all the beauty of this region of South Carolina along its many hiking trails. When you’re ready to enjoy delicious local cuisine, stop in The Hare and Hound or the Southside Smokehouse.

2. Beaufort, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,825
• Average home value: $409,900
• Great for: Families, public schools, young professionals, nightlife, diversity, retirees

Beaufort is a small coastal gem on Port Royal Island that offers residents a variety of ways to enjoy the slower pace of life in one of the best small towns in South Carolina. You’ll always be close to the water, so this would be a great place to live if you want to retire and take up fishing or boating. Young families also thrive here, attracted by the good public schools (rated a solid B by Niche) and lots of things to do.

The Fort Frederick Heritage Preserve and Fort Fremont History Center are great excuses to get outdoors and explore the interesting lore of this area of South Carolina. Going to the beach is easy to do here, of course, but make sure you head over to the Port Royal Boardwalk and Observation Tower, as well, to get a bird’s-eye view of a gorgeous sunset.

3. Georgetown, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,550
• Average home value: $249,900
• Great for: Diversity, cost of living, nightlife, commutes

Georgetown is a wonderful small town with a lot of history. In the third oldest town in the state — definitely one of the best small towns in South Carolina — you’ll find historic buildings and charming old houses lovingly cared for by their owners. Just take a walk along the oak-lined streets and visit the bustling downtown full of local boutiques and restaurants, and you’ll begin to realize why residents believe this is one of the most beautiful places in the Lowcountry.

You’ll love frequenting the Georgetown Landing Marina once you’re a resident, where you can enjoy fresh seafood from the Corner Tavern.

Edisto Beach is close enough to Charleston for easy access — but far enough for a slow, easy lifestyle.

4. Edisto Beach, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom: N/A
• Average home value: $749,400
• Great for: Outdoor activities, safety, nightlife, commutes, retirees, beach life

Although close to Charleston, Edisto Beach is far enough away to be a great small-town community. This quiet seaside community relishes its slower pace of life, making it a lovely place for retirees and those looking to start a family. Walking the beaches is something practically everyone in this community enjoys, but you can also try surfing, fishing, boating, and turtle watching!

Spending time at Edisto Beach State Park is a must, but you’re also sure to like visiting the Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area and enjoying cultural activities like art walks and concert series. And if you like seafood, you can’t go wrong with the local treats at Whaley’s seafood restaurant and bar or Pressley’s at the Marina.

5. Newberry, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $675
• Average home value: $165,000
• Great for: Cost of living, diversity, families, public schools, commutes

The quaint South Carolina town of Newberry offers residents beautiful natural scenery and a delightful climate, among other desirable characteristics. Families are flocking to this area because of the quality of the schools (a not-too-shabby B rating from Niche) and the host of family-friendly activities like the Pork in the Park BBQ festival, Juneteenth celebrations, and Newberry Oktoberfest.

Newberry is also just a short drive away from the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, stunning areas to explore and learn more about the local flora and fauna of South Carolina — not to mention some top-notch hiking on all kinds of trails with views of gorgeous waterfalls, like Yellow Branch Falls.

6. Aiken, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,325
• Average home value: $267,000
• Great for: Diversity, families, schools, cost of living, housing, jobs, commutes, retirees 

In the far western part of South Carolina, you’ll find the charming small town of Aiken. Although this is a slightly larger small town, (with a 2025 population estimate of around 33,500) we still think this place deserves a mention. If you’re looking to settle down in an area with a manageable cost of living but a high quality of life, Aiken could be your place. Retirees love the slower pace, the safe community feeling, and the many golf courses in the vicinity.  

If you’re an outdoor person, you’ll be thrilled by how close you are to Hitchcock Woods for hiking, biking, and bird-watching opportunities. Aiken also enjoys a rich arts scene, is a haven for equestrian enthusiasts (whether it’s racing, polo, or trail riding!), and has some terrific restaurants including The Alley Taproom, Malia’s Restaurant, and The Polo Grounds Cafe.

Sullivan’s Island ranks high on the list of quaint beach towns in South Carolina.

7. Sullivan’s Island, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Average home value: $4.2M
• Great for: Families, public schools, jobs, commutes, nightlife, safety, retirees, beach life 

If you’re looking for a small town close to Charleston, Sullivan’s Island may be your destination — but it’s pricey. With the average home going for a cool $4.2 million, this gorgeous beachfront community is among the most expensive in the Charleston area — and tops many lists of the best small towns in South Carolina. The island perfectly mixes laid-back beach vibes and coastal old-world charm and elegance. And because it’s an island, no matter where you choose to live, you’ll have access to some of the best beaches in South Carolina — not to mention some stunning views of sunsets. 

You’ll enjoy plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water, whether sailing, fishing, or swimming. This island has all kinds of historical attractions for buffs, as well, including Fort Moultrie and the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. Stop by Poe’s Tavern (named after Edgar Allen Poe) or Dunleavy’s Pub for a fantastic meal.

8. Walhalla, SC

• Average rent (all home sizes): $1,375
• Average home value: $226,200
• Great for: Schools, families, cost of living, outdoor activities, housing, safety, diversity

Another amazing small town in South Carolina, Walhalla, sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town’s name was taken from Valhalla, the Norse kingdom of the gods. The German settlers thought they found a little slice of heaven here in South Carolina, and their influence is still apparent in the historic buildings as well as the town’s annual Oktoberfest. 

Chances to get out in the great outdoors abound in Walhalla. You can expect to enjoy all kinds of water activities on Lake Keowee, like kayaking, fishing, and bird watching. And not too far away, Buzzard Roost Heritage Preserve and Blue Hole Falls offer some gorgeous views and wildlife.

9. Hartsville, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,025
• Average home value: $167,000
• Great for: Diversity, families, public schools, cost of living, housing, retirees

Located north of Florence, you’ll find Hartsville, one of the best small towns in South Carolina. This town is full of historic sites that reflect its past as a former plantation and center of industry in the late 19th century. The downtown area is walkable and offers little shops that encourage people to stop in. Residents of Hartsville are welcoming and friendly and enjoy the strong sense of community in their small town.

The Kalmia Gardens are a must-see, as is the cypress swamp that the Black Creek flows through. And as a resident, you’ll also have easy access to Lake Prestwood, which offers ample opportunities to get out on the water.

Travelers Rest is a favorite among small towns in South Carolina, known for charming Southern hospitality and a laidback vibe.
(Source: Gillis McAllister via Facebook)

10. Travelers Rest, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $875
• Average home value: $345,600
• Great for: Schools, outdoor activities, commutes, families

If you want to move to a small South Carolina town offering laid-back Southern living, you can’t go wrong with Travelers Rest. True to its name, Travelers Rest has long been a place where weary travelers could get some much-needed rest while they traversed from the mountains to the coast and back again. And it’s no surprise that even today, the town offers visitors and residents unmatched hospitality and strives to make everyone feel welcome.

The town is surrounded by pristine natural beauty, including easy access to multiple state parks (Caesars Head, Jones Gap, and Table Rock, to name a few), as well as the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which connects Travelers Rest with Greenville. You’ll also love the cute shops, breweries (like The Community Tap), and restaurants (including the famous Whistle Stop at the American Cafe) this town offers.

11. Clemson, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $850
• Average home value: $403,200
• Great for: Students, recent grads, families, nightlife, outdoor activities

While you may think of Clemson as just a university town, it is so much more than that! Although it is home to Clemson University, this small South Carolina town enjoys all kinds of cultural and business amenities that are usually only seen in much larger cities. With coffee shops, boutiques, larger national shopping chains, museums, historic buildings, outdoor facilities, restaurants, parks, gardens, and more, you’ll never need to worry about finding something to do!

Clemson is one of the best towns to live in South Carolina — a thriving area with a robust economy and an affordable housing market, so you have a good chance of finding a great job and place to call your own.

12. York, SC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,200
• Average home value: $357,300
• Great for: Schools, families, cost of living, diversity, jobs

York is located in the northeast part of the state, not far from Charlotte, NC. This area is full of natural beauty, and the town has made it a point to preserve much of its past. After all, Revolutionary War battles were fought in this area! 

Today, you’ll see many historic buildings and landmarks downtown, including Downtown York Clock and museums that keep the connection to the past alive. You can also find many opportunities to explore orchards, take in the area's natural beauty at the James Ross Wildlife Reservation, or dine on local favorites at restaurants like the Hoof & Barrel.

Sailing, kayaking, and canoeing are popular pastimes in Tega Cay, which is located right on the shores of Lake Wylie.

13. Tega Cay, SC

• Average rent (all home sizes): $2,275
• Average home value: $612,100
  
• Great for: Schools, families, cost of living, safety, diversity, jobs

Technically a suburb of Charlotte, NC, just 20 miles to the north, Tega Cay is nonetheless a must-include on our list of the best small towns in South Carolina. This scenic, family-friendly destination has been named the No. 1 best place to live in South Carolina by Niche for 2025 — and its honors don’t stop there: Tega Cay is also the best place to raise a family and has the best public schools in South Carolina, according to Niche. The town sits on the shores of Lake Wylie, with boating activities at the center of community life. Sailing, kayaking, and canoeing are big in Tega Cay, particularly for members of the Catawba Yacht Club, which hosts competitive races (Open to non-members, too!) regularly. 

Besides lake recreation, residents here enjoy almost 20 parks with a variety of amenities like playgrounds, ballfields, and miles of walking and biking trails. Trailhead Park, Windjammer Park, and the 62-acre Catawba Park are among the local faves. After all that fresh air residents head to the Tega Cay Tavern or, for special occasions, Epic Chophouse.

14. McClellanville, SC 

• Average rent (all home sizes): $2,500
• Average home value: $436,400
  
• Great for: Schools, families, cost of living, safety, diversity, jobs

For a private, peaceful small town vibe, look no further than McClellanville, a tiny fishing village about 30 minutes from Charleston. Only 600 residents live here — many of whom stay in stilt homes near the Intracoastal Waterway snaking through thick seagrass marshes out into the Atlantic Ocean. Despite its tiny size (and the enormous mosquitoes that swarm in the summer), McClellanville is known far and wide as one of the best small towns in South Carolina.

Most dining and entertainment options are in nearby towns — and in Charleston, of course. But in the quaint downtown McClellanville Historic District, residents frequent the beloved McClellanville Diner, a family owned eatery that serves up delicious Lowcountry favorites in a warm, homey environment. You can also get fresh seafood at T.W. Graham & Co., another cozy “mom and pop” favorite in this quaint little South Carolina town.

Make your move to one of the best small towns in South Carolina flexible: Let PODS do the heavy lifting. 

PODS Can Help You Move to a Small Town in South Carolina

When you’re ready to move to a small town in South Carolina, PODS makes the transition flexible. Simply have a PODS portable storage container delivered to your driveway, load it up at your convenience, and a PODS driver will pick it up and deliver it to your new South Carolina home. And if you need a little extra time between houses, you can take advantage of one month’s storage included in the cost of every move. PODS can also refer you to local packing and loading services to help with the heavy lifting. 

Get a free local moving quote online or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Editor’s note: Average and median rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.