Why More Americans Are Moving to South Carolina in 2025

People are packing up and heading south. South Carolina now ranks as the top state to move to in 2025, according to new data from MoveBuddha. It's the second year in a row the state has taken the lead. So, what’s pulling people in?

The numbers say a lot. For every 100 people planning to leave South Carolina, 218 are looking to move in. That’s the highest ratio in the country. Tennessee and North Carolina came in second and third, but not close.

The Most Popular Cities to Move to in SC

Three South Carolina cities, Myrtle Beach, Greenville, and Charleston, also made the top ten list for most searched U.S. cities. Myrtle Beach ranked first. Greenville was third. Charleston tied for eighth. This isn’t just a one-time spike. It’s a steady climb that reflects where Americans want to live.

Let’s look at why.

Myrtle Beach tops the list with 255 inbound searches per 100 outbound. People are clearly drawn to its coast. With 60 miles of beaches, dozens of golf courses, and a growing mix of restaurants and attractions, Myrtle Beach is more than a vacation spot. It’s becoming a permanent home for many. Could you see yourself living near the ocean and walking the boardwalk in the evenings?

Then there’s Greenville. It has 229 inbound searches per 100 outbound—more than cities like Raleigh or Ocala. Greenville has changed fast. Once known for textiles, it’s now home to big players like BMW, Michelin, and GE. Jobs are growing. Downtown has been rebuilt. You get walkable streets, public parks, restaurants, and live music on the weekends. Does that mix of job opportunities and small-town ease sound like a fit for your life?

Charleston stands out for different reasons. With 168 inbound searches per 100 outbound, it’s still one of the most desirable cities on the East Coast. It combines historic charm with modern industries. The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) drives much of the city’s healthcare and research work. If you’re in medicine, tech, or education, Charleston has options. And the city’s appeal doesn’t stop at work. The food scene, coastal views, and historic homes offer a quality of life few places match.

Zooming out, the entire Southeast is trending. Warmer weather, lower taxes, and affordable housing are big draws. People are tired of high costs in places like California and New York. Moving south gives them more for their money. Does your current location still meet your needs, or is change overdue?

Here’s the full list of top states people are moving to in 2025:

1. South Carolina – 218 inbound per 100 outbound

2. Tennessee – 173

3. North Carolina – 161

4. Alabama – 156

5. Delaware – 151

6. Maine – 147

7. West Virginia – 147

8. Arkansas – 144

9. Idaho – 140

10. Mississippi – 138

All of them have something in common: smaller cities, slower pace, and lower costs.

But South Carolina stands apart. It’s not just the beach towns. It’s the job growth in places like Greenville. It’s the mix of history and opportunity in Charleston. It’s the fact that you can find something that fits; whether you want mountains, beaches, or city life.

Thinking about relocating this year? Ask yourself what matters most. Is it the weather? The price of housing? A better job? More space? South Carolina checks a lot of boxes. And thousands of others are already making the move. Is it your turn?

Check out the best places to live in South Carolina.

Why Move to Greenville, South Carolina