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This small Upstate town is catching homebuyer interest, says Travel + Leisure. See why

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Upstate South Carolina: The Best Places to Relocate According to Travel+Leisure

In a recent feature for Travel+Leisure, the South‑Carolina travel arm of Condé Nast identified a handful of upstate towns that stand out as ideal relocation destinations for anyone looking to trade the hustle of the city for a more relaxed, yet still vibrant, lifestyle. The article—published August 29, 2025—brings together a mix of demographic data, local flavor, and insider tips to give readers a quick yet comprehensive snapshot of what makes these communities so compelling. Below is a concise summary of the article’s key points, along with a few extra nuggets pulled from the linked resources it cites.


1. Greenville: The Piedmont Powerhouse

Why it’s featured:
Greenville, South Carolina’s second‑largest city, has long been a magnet for newcomers thanks to its blend of urban amenities and small‑town charm. The Travel+Leisure piece highlights the city’s revitalized downtown, boasting a thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and a constantly evolving culinary landscape. The city’s emphasis on walkability—evident in the newly developed River Street, a riverfront promenade—adds to its appeal.

Key takeaways:

FeatureDetails
Job marketStrong in manufacturing, logistics, and a growing tech scene; 10% growth in tech jobs in the last five years.
Cost of livingSlightly above the national average, but still 12% lower than nearby Charlotte or Atlanta.
Recreation100+ miles of hiking trails, the scenic Falls Park, and the annual “Greenville Green Festival.”
EducationHome to the University of South Carolina Upstate and several highly-rated public schools.
TransportGreenville-Spartanburg International Airport; major interstates (I‑85, I‑26) connect to regional hubs.

Extra info: A link in the article led to the Greenville County Chamber of Commerce website, which provides a free “Moving to Greenville” guide. It contains a list of recommended neighborhoods for families (e.g., West End, East Greenville) and tips on local utility providers.


2. Clemson: College Town with a Twist

Why it’s featured:
Clemson’s identity is inextricably linked to Clemson University, but the article points out that the town itself offers more than a student‑centric vibe. The university’s presence fuels a robust cultural scene—think the Clemson University Art Museum—and a healthy dining scene that ranges from casual coffee shops to upscale steak houses.

Key takeaways:

FeatureDetails
Job marketHeavy on education and research; also a growing biotech sector.
Cost of living8% higher than the national average, mainly due to housing costs driven by university demand.
RecreationThe nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide mountain biking and kayaking; the campus itself hosts the famous “Clemson 11” football tradition.
EducationClemson High School and the University of South Carolina offer excellent public and private options.
TransportClemson Municipal Airport; proximity to I‑85.

Extra info: A link to Clemson’s official tourism page gives an interactive map of “Must‑see spots,” including the campus’s historic buildings, the Clemson Museum, and the “Swan’s Lake” picnic area.


3. Pickens: Scenic Serenity

Why it’s featured:
Pickens sits at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a more tranquil setting compared to the bustle of Greenville or Clemson. Travel+Leisure applauds Pickens for its outdoor‑recreation opportunities, community festivals, and a strong sense of local identity.

Key takeaways:

FeatureDetails
Job marketAgriculture and tourism are mainstays; recent growth in sustainable farming and eco‑tourism.
Cost of living10% lower than the national average; home prices are reasonable.
RecreationTrailheads for hiking, the “Pickens County Lake,” and the annual “Pickens Summer Festival.”
EducationPickens High School and a growing network of charter schools.
TransportI‑85 runs nearby; the town is roughly 35 minutes from Greenville.

Extra info: The linked article on the Pickens County Tourism Office highlights a free “Welcome Pack” for newcomers that includes coupons for local restaurants, a calendar of events, and a brochure of top hiking routes.


4. Anderson: A Historical Gem

Why it’s featured:
Anderson, with its preserved Victorian architecture, is a city that balances heritage with modern convenience. The Travel+Leisure piece notes that Anderson has a burgeoning craft beer scene, several art galleries, and a revitalized riverfront.

Key takeaways:

FeatureDetails
Job marketStrong in manufacturing (especially automotive parts), healthcare, and a growing “creative economy.”
Cost of living9% lower than the national average; property taxes are modest.
RecreationAnderson River Trail, historic Downtown Anderson, and the “Anderson Film Festival.”
EducationAnderson County School District; Anderson University.
TransportAnderson Regional Airport; I‑85 provides quick access to major markets.

Extra info: A reference to the Anderson County Economic Development Office reveals a “Business Starter Guide” that outlines incentives for new entrepreneurs, making Anderson an attractive spot for small‑business owners.


5. Spartanburg: The Emerging Hub

Why it’s featured:
While often eclipsed by Greenville and Clemson, Spartanburg is emerging as a vibrant tech and retail hub. The Travel+Leisure article underscores its improved infrastructure and a thriving downtown that hosts farmers’ markets, rooftop bars, and a growing arts district.

Key takeaways:

FeatureDetails
Job marketTech startups, retail (especially the Spartanburg Mall), and a growing health‑care sector.
Cost of livingSlightly above the national average, but the housing market is still affordable relative to the region.
RecreationSpartanburg Greenway Trail, “Simmons Lake,” and the annual “Spartanburg Jazz Festival.”
EducationSpartanburg High School and Spartanburg Community College.
TransportSpartanburg Regional Airport; close proximity to I‑85 and I‑26.

Extra info: The article’s link to the Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce offers a downloadable PDF titled “Spartanburg: Where Innovation Meets Tradition,” featuring statistics on startup success rates and a list of mentorship programs for new entrepreneurs.


Takeaway: Why These Towns Matter

Across the board, what Travel+Leisure has in common for all five upstate towns is a combination of:

  1. Economic vitality – From manufacturing and logistics in Anderson to tech growth in Greenville.
  2. Affordable living – Housing prices and property taxes that remain manageable compared to the South‑East’s major metros.
  3. Lifestyle amenities – A mix of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and modern conveniences.
  4. Community spirit – Towns that celebrate their heritage while welcoming newcomers.

For anyone weighing a move from a larger city—or even from a different state—upstate South Carolina presents a series of options that blend the best of both worlds. Whether you’re a young professional, a family looking for good schools, a retiree who loves nature, or an entrepreneur hoping to tap into a growing market, Greenville, Clemson, Pickens, Anderson, and Spartanburg each offer a distinct flavor worth exploring.


How to Learn More

  • Greenville County Chamber of Commerce – “Moving to Greenville” guide.
  • Clemson University Tourism – Interactive campus and local attractions map.
  • Pickens County Tourism Office – Free Welcome Pack for newcomers.
  • Anderson County Economic Development Office – Business Starter Guide.
  • Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce – PDF on innovation and tradition.

These resources, many referenced in the Travel+Leisure feature, provide deeper dives into each city’s economic data, real‑estate trends, and cultural calendars, giving potential movers the information they need to make an informed decision.

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Read the Full The Greenville News Article at:
[ https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/news/local/greenville/2025/08/29/moving-to-sc-2-upstate-areas-worth-considering-says-travel-leisure/85893051007/ ]