7 Best Towns In South Carolina For Retirees

When the palmetto moon clocks in and your working days clock out, South Carolina offers a backstage pass to a quieter retirement, one lit by seven small towns where porch swings creak louder than traffic and taxes tip their hats to seniors.

Here, Revolutionary War skirmish sites double as morning walking trails, a former Gullah ferry now hauls farmers-market peaches, and librarians still greet newcomers by name before handing over a fishing-license form.

Step off the interstate; the best retirement lanes in the Palmetto State start on two-lane roads.

Camden

As the oldest inland city in the state, Camden boasts a deep-rooted history, evident in landmarks like the National Steeplechase Museum and the Camden Archives and Museum. The town's commitment to preserving its heritage is further showcased in its Cultural District, which hosts various art galleries and public art installations. With a median home sale price of approximately $320,000 as of March 2025, Camden offers a range of housing options to suit retirees' preferences and budgets.

For those interested in outdoor activities, Goodale State Park provides opportunities for fishing, hiking, and birdwatching amidst its serene landscapes. Dining options in Camden cater to diverse tastes, with establishments like B. Colson's Steak, Seafood & Bourbon offering a fine dining experience. Healthcare needs are well-supported by MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center, a 119-bed facility offering comprehensive services, including emergency care and specialized treatments. For senior living, The Colonial at Old Camden and The Legacy of Camden provide assisted living and memory care services, ensuring that retirees have access to quality care in a community setting.

Gaffney

As the county seat of Cherokee County, Gaffney is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town's historic downtown district features preserved 19th-century architecture, providing a picturesque setting for residents and visitors alike. Gaffney is also known for its agricultural roots, particularly in peach cultivation, earning it the nickname "The Peach Capital of South Carolina." This agricultural heritage is celebrated annually during the Gaffney Peach Festival, which features local produce, crafts, and entertainment.

The Gaffney Visitors Center & Art Gallery, housed in a historic building, showcases local art and serves as a hub for community events. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Cowpens National Battlefield, a site of historical significance from the American Revolutionary War. The town's median home price is approximately $200,000, making it an affordable option for retirees seeking homeownership.

Healthcare needs are well-supported by Cherokee Medical Center, a 125-bed acute care facility offering a range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, and imaging. For senior living, communities such as Viva Senior Living at Gaffney provide assisted living and memory care services.

Seneca

Situated near Lake Keowee, Seneca provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. The historic Ram Cat Alley features local shops and dining options. Cultural sites include the Lunney Museum, showcasing early 20th-century architecture, and the Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum, highlighting African American heritage. Art enthusiasts can visit the Blue Ridge Arts Center for regional exhibitions. The median home price in Seneca is approximately $290,000, reflecting a 2.8% increase over the past year.

Healthcare services are provided by Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital, a 169-bed facility offering comprehensive care. Senior living options include The Residences at Park Place, offering assisted living and memory care, and Keowee Square, providing assisted living services. Oaks at Seneca also offers senior living accommodations.

Hartsville

Hartsville's centerpiece, Kalmia Gardens, spans 30 acres and features a diverse array of flora, including the mountain-laurel Kalmia latifolia, which thrives due to the garden's unique 60-foot bluff overlooking Black Creek. The gardens also house the historic Thomas Hart House, built in the 1820s, adding a touch of history to the natural beauty. The median home value in Hartsville stands at $230,000, reflecting a 3.5% increase over the past year.

For cultural enrichment, the Hartsville Museum offers exhibits that delve into the town's rich history, while the Black Creek Arts Council provides art classes and hosts exhibitions in its Jean & James Fort Gallery. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Byerly Park's recreational facilities or take a leisurely walk in Lawton Park. Healthcare needs are met by the Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, a 116-bed facility offering comprehensive services, including emergency care and specialized treatments. For senior living, The Legacy of Hartsville provides assisted living and memory care services, while The Retreat at Carolina Bay offers personalized care plans and luxurious accommodations.

Walterboro

Walterboro, known as the “Front Porch of the Lowcountry,” offers retirees a blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and modern amenities. The town's historic downtown district features preserved 19th-century architecture, providing a picturesque setting for residents and visitors alike. Walterboro is also home to the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary, a 600-acre preserve with boardwalks and trails, offering opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks. The median home value in Walterboro stands at $200,000, reflecting a 4.4% increase over the past year.

The Colleton Museum and Farmers Market offers exhibits on local history and a venue for local produce and crafts. The South Carolina Artisans Center showcases the work of the state's leading artists, while the Slave Relic Museum provides insights into African American history. Healthcare needs are met by the Colleton Medical Center, a full-service facility offering emergency care, advanced wound care, and rehabilitation services . For senior living, options include Magnolias of Walterboro, a family-owned assisted living facility.

Abbeville

Abbeville's centerpiece, the Abbeville Opera House, has been a cultural hub since 1908, hosting a variety of performances and events. The historic Trinity Episcopal Church, with its Gothic Revival architecture, adds to the town's rich historical tapestry. The median home value in Abbeville stands at $220,000, reflecting a 1.3% increase over the past year.

For cultural enrichment, the Abbeville County Historical Society offers exhibits that delve into the town's rich history. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Lake Russell and Lake Secession for fishing and boating activities. Healthcare needs are met by the Abbeville Area Medical Center, a 25-bed facility offering comprehensive services, including emergency care and specialized treatments. For senior living, options include Abbeville Nursing Home, providing nursing care services.

Newberry

Last but certainly not least, Newberry. The town's beating heart, the Newberry Opera House, has been a cultural hub since 1881, hosting a variety of performances and events. The historic Wells Japanese Garden, established in 1930, provides a serene setting with its koi pond and traditional teahouse. The median home value in Newberry stands at $200,000, reflecting a 0.6% decrease over the past year.

The Newberry County Historical Museum offers exhibits that delve into the town's rich history. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Lake Murray for fishing and boating activities. Healthcare needs are met by the Newberry County Memorial Hospital, a 90-bed facility offering comprehensive services, including emergency care and specialized treatments . For senior living, options include Springfield Place and J.F. Hawkins Nursing Home, providing independent living and skilled nursing care.

From Camden's steeplechase lore to Newberry's opera echoes, each of these seven towns threads Lowcountry charm with Upstate vistas, reliable hospitals, and mortgages kinder than coastal rent. Property taxes stay polite, festivals keep calendars full, and lakes, gardens, or battlefields sit minutes from front doors. Retiring here isn’t withdrawal—it’s a strategic redeployment to slower streets where history whispers, neighbors wave, and every porch swing earns compound interest in lasting peace.