




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:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Job market | Strong in manufacturing, logistics, and a growing tech scene; 10% growth in tech jobs in the last five years. |
Cost of living | Slightly above the national average, but still 12% lower than nearby Charlotte or Atlanta. |
Recreation | 100+ miles of hiking trails, the scenic Falls Park, and the annual “Greenville Green Festival.” |
Education | Home to the University of South Carolina Upstate and several highly-rated public schools. |
Transport | Greenville-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:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Job market | Heavy on education and research; also a growing biotech sector. |
Cost of living | 8% higher than the national average, mainly due to housing costs driven by university demand. |
Recreation | The nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide mountain biking and kayaking; the campus itself hosts the famous “Clemson 11” football tradition. |
Education | Clemson High School and the University of South Carolina offer excellent public and private options. |
Transport | Clemson 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:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Job market | Agriculture and tourism are mainstays; recent growth in sustainable farming and eco‑tourism. |
Cost of living | 10% lower than the national average; home prices are reasonable. |
Recreation | Trailheads for hiking, the “Pickens County Lake,” and the annual “Pickens Summer Festival.” |
Education | Pickens High School and a growing network of charter schools. |
Transport | I‑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:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Job market | Strong in manufacturing (especially automotive parts), healthcare, and a growing “creative economy.” |
Cost of living | 9% lower than the national average; property taxes are modest. |
Recreation | Anderson River Trail, historic Downtown Anderson, and the “Anderson Film Festival.” |
Education | Anderson County School District; Anderson University. |
Transport | Anderson 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:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Job market | Tech startups, retail (especially the Spartanburg Mall), and a growing health‑care sector. |
Cost of living | Slightly above the national average, but the housing market is still affordable relative to the region. |
Recreation | Spartanburg Greenway Trail, “Simmons Lake,” and the annual “Spartanburg Jazz Festival.” |
Education | Spartanburg High School and Spartanburg Community College. |
Transport | Spartanburg 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:
- Economic vitality – From manufacturing and logistics in Anderson to tech growth in Greenville.
- Affordable living – Housing prices and property taxes that remain manageable compared to the South‑East’s major metros.
- Lifestyle amenities – A mix of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and modern conveniences.
- 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/ ]