For those of us nearing retirement age, the thought of finally having the time to relax and enjoy all of life’s little pleasures is absolutely exhilarating. And what better place to do that than in the beautiful state of South Carolina? From its stunning beaches and breathtaking mountains to its fascinating retirement communities, there’s always something new to discover in South Carolina. Let’s take a closer look at some of the pros and cons of retiring in this southern gem. Some people debate whether to retire in Florida or South Carolina. When looking at the pros and cons of retiring in South Carolina, it’s easy to see that this state has a lot to offer retirees.
Here are some of the top reasons why South Carolina is a great place to retire:
Incredible golf retirement communities
If you’re an avid golfer, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to picking a retirement community in South Carolina. The state is home to some of the most prestigious golf courses in the country, including Kiawah Island Golf Resort (ranked #1 in North America by Golf Digest) and Harbour Town Golf Links (site of the PGA Tour’s annual Heritage Classic). Golfers with an eye for the beautiful game will be hard-pressed to find a better place than Myrtle Beach. With over 70 courses in which they can play, there’s no shortage of opportunities when it comes time for you and your golf clubs!
Amazing State Parks and Historic sites
From the mountains of upstate South Carolina to the beaches of the Lowcountry, there’s no shortage of incredible state parks and historical sites to explore in this state. Notable highlights include Congaree National Park (home to the tallest tree in Eastern North America), Charleston’s Battery & White Point Gardens (a 22-acre park overlooking Charleston Harbor), and Falls Park on the Reedy (a 32-acre urban oasis in Greenville).
South Carolina Low Cost of Living
One of the most significant advantages of retiring in South Carolina is the low cost of living. According to How Stuff Works, “the average cost of living for a retired couple in South Carolina is about $37,000 a year,” which is significantly lower than many other states in the US. Additionally, retirees in South Carolina are not subject to state income taxes on Social Security benefits, pension income, or IRAs. Plus, the cost of living in South Carolina is nearly 10% below the national average. And if that’s not enough to convince you, just wait until you see all the amazing beaches!
Retirement Communities in South Carolina
From Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island to Hilton Head and Kiawah Island, there are plenty of incredible beachfront retirement communities to choose from in South Carolina. Not to mention all the state parks and historic sites! In fact, according to 55 Places, “South Carolina has more than 80 state parks and historic sites,” which makes it one of the best states for retirees who love spending time outdoors.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to retire, there is no shortage of options. From sunny Florida to scenic Arizona, there are a lot of great places to choose from. However, one state that often gets overlooked is South Carolina. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of retiring in South Carolina so you can decide if it’s the right place for you.
Weather
One of the biggest reasons why people retire to states like Florida or Arizona is because of the weather. And it’s true that the winters in South Carolina can be a bit cooler than in other parts of the country. However, the state still averages around 60 degrees during the winter months, which is plenty warm enough for most people. Plus, you get the added bonus of beautiful fall foliage and mild springs and summers.
Healthcare in South Carolina
Another important consideration for retirees is healthcare. And South Carolina has some great healthcare options. The state is home to top-notch hospitals like MUSC Health and Prisma Health, which are both ranked among the best in the country. In Myrtle Beach SC the Grand Strand Hospital was ranked the #7 heart hospital in the nation. Plus, there are plenty of retirement communities that offer on-site healthcare facilities. So you’ll be able to get the care you need without having to travel far from home.
House Prices
One thing that may not be so appealing about retiring to South Carolina is the cost of housing. The median home price in the state is around $300,000, which is slightly lower than the national average. However, there are still plenty of affordable options available, especially if you’re willing to live in a smaller town or city. And, with a little bit of searching, you should be able to find a place that fits your budget.
Taxes
South Carolina’s tax laws are favorable for retirees compared to those of other states. The state does not tax Social Security benefits, pensions, or retirement income from 401(k)s, IRAs, and other similar accounts. That means more of your hard-earned retirement savings will stay in your pocket where it belongs.
In addition, South Carolina offers a number of tax breaks for retirees who own their homes. For example, if you’re over the age of 65, you may qualify for a reduced property tax assessment. And if you’re a disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran, you may be eligible for a complete property tax exemption.
There are many reasons why people decide to retire in South Carolina. One of the most significant reasons is taxes. With so much to offer retirees, it’s no wonder that this state is consistently ranked as one of the best places to retire. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountains or magnificent botanical gardens, there’s something for everyone in South Carolina. So if you’re nearing retirement age, definitely consider making this beautiful southern state your home. You won’t be disappointed! Visit once and you’ll see why they call it the “Good Life.”
If you are thinking about moving to South Carolina for retirement, Give our team a call at 843-839-9870 We can help you avoid the pitfalls that are costly. talk soon!
