2025 Best Suburbs to Live in the Greenville Area

Thinking about moving to Greenville, SC? You’re not alone. In 2025, more families, professionals, and retirees are making the move to Upstate South Carolina. They’re drawn by the strong job market, great schools, low cost of living, and charming Southern lifestyle.

But if you want space, peace, and a real sense of community, without giving up easy access to downtown Greenville, then suburb life might be the way to go.

Below are some of the best places to live near Greenville, SC in 2025. These suburbs offer a mix of affordability, good schools, and great quality of life.

Five Forks

Five Forks is one of the most popular suburbs near Greenville, and for good reason. Located about 25 minutes southeast of downtown, it’s known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, new construction homes, and top-rated schools like Oakview Elementary and Riverside High.

You’ll find lots of parks, new shopping centers, and wide sidewalks—perfect for evening strolls or bike rides. It’s a master-planned area, so everything feels well thought-out.

Tip: This is a great spot if you’re looking for newer homes, excellent schools, and room to grow.

Pendleton

If you’re after small-town charm, Pendleton is worth a look. It’s about 45 minutes southwest of Greenville, near Anderson and Clemson. Pendleton has a beautiful historic downtown, tree-lined streets, and a relaxed pace of life.

You’ll find farmers markets, local restaurants, and a real sense of community here. Home prices tend to be lower than in Greenville, making it a great value.

Tip: Ideal for those who want a quiet lifestyle without being too far from big-city conveniences.

Central

Located just east of Clemson, Central is a college town with a casual, friendly vibe. It’s home to Southern Wesleyan University and a younger population, including students and first-time homebuyers.

Central offers affordable housing, parks, and green spaces. You won’t find a lot of traffic here, and the community is tight-knit.

Tip: Great for young couples or buyers looking for a budget-friendly start near schools and nature.

Clemson

Clemson

Clemson isn’t just a college town—it’s a destination. With the university at the heart of it, there’s always something going on: football games, concerts, and community events.

It’s walkable, lively, and located near Lake Hartwell, which means weekends can easily turn into lake days. It’s about 45–50 minutes from Greenville, so the commute is longer, but the vibe is hard to beat.

Tip: Expect a mix of students, families, and retirees. Some areas are more rental-heavy, especially near campus.

Taylors

Taylors sits just northeast of Greenville and gives you the best of both worlds: suburban convenience with a hint of country feel. It’s only 15–20 minutes from downtown, making commuting a breeze.

The area has grown in recent years, with new coffee shops, parks, and shopping centers. Schools are solid, and many neighborhoods are well-established.

Tip: A great option if you’re priced out of downtown Greenville but still want to stay close.

Wade Hampton

Wade Hampton is one of the most convenient places to live near Greenville. It borders the city and gives you quick access to work, shopping, and dining. Homes here are usually in mature neighborhoods with big yards and tree-lined streets.

It’s not flashy, but it’s affordable and practical—a smart choice for many first-time buyers and families.

Tip: One of the more budget-friendly suburbs near Greenville, without sacrificing location.

Greer

Greer

Greer is booming in 2025. With a revitalized downtown, local restaurants, and a growing job market (thanks to companies like BMW), it’s becoming a top pick for homebuyers.

You’ll find everything from historic homes to brand-new neighborhoods. Greer sits between Greenville and Spartanburg, making it great for dual-commute households.

Tip: This suburb has long-term value. It’s still affordable but growing fast.

Tips for Picking the Right Suburb

Choosing where to live isn’t just about the house; it’s about your lifestyle. Here are a few things to think about:

• Commute time: Do you want to be 15 minutes from downtown or is 45 minutes okay?

• Schools: If you have kids, check district ratings and visit local campuses.

• Community feel: Do you want quiet and space or a lively, walkable area?

Bonus tip: Visit neighborhoods in person. Drive around on a weekend. Talk to the neighbors. And always have your finances ready—homes in popular suburbs go quickly.

Working with a local real estate team like Livian Estates Team can help you narrow down what fits your budget and lifestyle.

FAQs

What’s the most affordable suburb near Greenville?
Wade Hampton and Central often have lower home prices than places like Five Forks or Greer.

Which suburb has the best schools?
Five Forks consistently ranks high for school quality, especially in the Greenville County School District.

How long is the commute from these suburbs to downtown Greenville?
It ranges from 15 minutes (Taylors, Wade Hampton) to 45–50 minutes (Pendleton, Clemson).

Whether you're relocating for work or just looking for a fresh start, these suburbs near Greenville, SC, offer some of the best places to live in the region.
Take a tour, ask questions, and find the one that feels right for you.