Sunshine, Affordable Living, and Coastal Charm: Why South Carolina is a Top Relocation Destination

More Americans are moving to South Carolina for its cost-effective living, job opportunities, and scenic beauty / Susanne Neumann via Getty Images

Brittney Ross, 23, recently moved to Summerville, South Carolina, joining a growing wave of new residents flocking to the Palmetto State. Leaving behind Auburn, Alabama, she sought a fresh start near the beach with better career prospects and an affordable cost of living. While she quickly secured a position at an urgent care veterinary clinic—an improvement from her previous fast-food job—she also encountered the realities of South Carolina’s booming population: traffic congestion, longer commutes, and crowded shopping centers. Yet, despite these challenges, she remains happy with her choice.

South Carolina has become one of the most popular states for relocation in recent years, ranking second only to Idaho for in-migration between 2020 and 2024. According to U-Haul’s 2024 data on one-way moving rentals, the state surpassed Texas as the top relocation destination. Census Bureau figures show that South Carolina welcomed a net 68,000 domestic movers in 2024 alone, a significant number considering its population of just 5.5 million.

A Magnet for Job Seekers, Retirees, and Remote Workers

Major corporations such as BMW and Boeing continue to expand their presence in South Carolina, drawing in job seekers from across the country. Many new residents come from high-cost states like New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, and Washington, attracted by the promise of warmer weather, lower taxes, and more affordable housing. Retirees, who previously viewed Florida as their ultimate destination, are increasingly choosing South Carolina due to Florida’s rising insurance costs and hurricane risks. While South Carolina’s coastal areas are prone to flooding, the state has not experienced a major hurricane since 1989.

Real estate agents report a steady stream of inquiries from prospective movers. Mark Klim, a real estate agent in Summerville, describes the Charleston metro area as a hub for retirement communities, while fellow agent Jeff Gregg notes an influx of remote workers looking for a change of scenery without sacrificing career opportunities.

Finding the Right Home in a Rapidly Growing Market

Despite South Carolina’s reputation for affordability, home prices vary widely by region. Charleston, known for its historic charm and coastal appeal, sees homes ranging from $700,000 to $1 million in its core neighborhoods. However, more affordable options exist in surrounding suburbs, where homes typically list between $400,000 and $600,000. Statewide, the median home price stood at $350,000 in early 2024.

For those priced out of Charleston, Myrtle Beach and Greenville present viable alternatives. Myrtle Beach offers a coastal lifestyle with lower home prices, while Greenville, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, boasts a thriving downtown and growing job market.

Alex Stein, a 27-year-old remote social media worker, originally planned a short stay in Charleston but ultimately decided to make it her long-term home. After experiencing the city’s beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and mild climate, she abandoned her plans to move to Nashville. However, securing affordable housing proved challenging, requiring extensive online searches before she landed a long-term lease in Mount Pleasant, a Charleston suburb.

Luxury Housing Market Booms with High-Income Relocators

While many new residents seek affordability, South Carolina has also become a hotspot for luxury home buyers, particularly those relocating from states with expensive real estate markets. Summerville-based real estate agent Jeff Cook notes that what might be considered a modest transaction in New York—a $1.5 million home—translates to a high-end property in South Carolina, complete with expansive lots and upscale amenities.

The state’s appeal lies in its versatility: whether seeking a coastal retreat, a mountain getaway, or a suburban haven, South Carolina offers diverse living environments within a few hours’ drive of each other. This accessibility, combined with a strong job market, favorable cost of living, and natural beauty, cements South Carolina’s status as a top relocation destination in the U.S.