Best Places to Retire in South Carolina - Upstate Has Some Gems

WorldAtlas just named its top 10 towns in South Carolina for retiring comfortably, in a list published June 29, 2025. They looked at factors like home prices, healthcare access, and overall livability. From that list, three towns in Upstate South Carolina stand out: Anderson, Seneca, and Gaffney. If you’re thinking about moving here—or retiring nearby—here’s what makes each of them worth a closer look.

1. Anderson

Anderson, known as the “Electric City,” earned its name back in 1895 when it lit the first electric street lamps in the region. It still stands out with lower-than-average electricity rates thanks to its historic hydro plant. The town features a sizable regional hospital (AnMed Health), which adds peace of mind for retirees. The downtown area is walkable, with a splash pad, local coffee shops, and regular community events. Homes here remain affordable too—the median listing price hovers around $270,000.

2. Seneca

Seneca sits near Lake Keowee and Lake Hartwell, making it a popular spot for folks who love water activities. The town offers scenic views, boat ramps, fishing areas, and gentle trails around the lakes. Along its historic downtown, you’ll find antique shops, friendly cafés, and the local farmers market. Home prices are reasonable, and healthcare options are available in nearby cities like Clemson and Anderson. It’s a comfortable balance of lakeside living and small-town charm.

3. Gaffney

Known as the “Peach Capital of South Carolina,” Gaffney celebrates its fruit heritage every year with a big peach festival. It’s a small city with a classic Main Street feel and historic buildings to explore. Gaffney offers easy access to interstate I‑85, making travel to Greenville or Charlotte simple. It’s very affordable—home prices and everyday costs tend to be lower than nearby larger cities. Locals appreciate the relaxed pace of life and close-knit community.

Why These Upstate Towns Stand Out

Each of these spots comes from WorldAtlas’s effort to highlight affordable, retiree-friendly places in South Carolina. What they share:

• Reasonable housing prices in the low-to-mid $200,000s range

• Access to good medical services, with nearby hospitals and clinics

• Local amenities like parks, walking trails, community centers, and lakes

• A slower pace of life—no big-city crowds, but still modern conveniences

Adding Greenville to the List?

While Greenville didn’t appear in that specific article, other sources often point to it as a top retirement destination in the Upstate. With downtown riverside life, vibrant arts, and a growing restaurant scene, Greenville offers a lively but manageable city atmosphere—even if it’s a bit more costly. That makes it popular for those who want a mix of small-town friendliness and city energy.

Choosing the Right Fit for You

Wondering which town might suit your lifestyle? Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Pace & Size: Gaffney is the smallest and quietest. Anderson feels mid-sized and active. Greenville is the most lively but still not overwhelming.

• Outdoor Life: Seneca offers lake living. Greenville offers parks and trails. Anderson has community events and amenities.

• Budget: Gaffney and Anderson stretch your retirement dollars further. Greenville may cost more, but offers more services and social venues.

Ready to Explore?

• Visit in person: Drive through town, walk Main Street, stop at a local café or farmers market.

• Check housing online: Compare home prices in each area.

• Talk to locals: Ask what they like best—and what they’d change.

• Reach out to local agents: They can share details on schools, zoning, taxes, and nearby services.

Upstate South Carolina offers a range of ways to retire comfortably. Anderson, Seneca, and Gaffney each bring something different to the table, whether you're chasing lakeside peace, small-town ease, or affordability. Add Greenville to your list if you want more city energy.

Check out the original WorldAtlas article “10 Best Towns In South Carolina To Retire Comfortably” to see the full list—including towns across SC. Then, pick a weekend and go explore—one of these neighborhoods could be your next happy place.