Best Cities in South Carolina for Veterans 2025: Cost of Living & Quality of Life
South Carolina's best cities for veterans ranked by cost of living, veteran population, amenities, and quality of life. Housing costs and city comparisons.
Best Cities in South Carolina for Veterans 2025
Bottom Line Up Front
Myrtle Beach ranks #1 for South Carolina veterans in 2025 according to Veterans United Home Loans—it's affordable (median home $300,000), has 28,000 veterans (8% of population), excellent quality of life with beaches and recreation, and proximity to Myrtle Beach VA Clinic. Charleston takes #2, offering world-class quality of life, strong economy, Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center on-site, and Joint Base Charleston employment—though housing is expensive at $410,000+ median.
For affordability, Columbia offers the best value: median home $220,000 (50% cheaper than Charleston), direct access to Dorn VA Medical Center, Fort Jackson civilian jobs, and South Carolina's capital city amenities. Greenville ranks #4 for veterans seeking Upstate mountain scenery, strong job market, and 7% below-national-average cost of living.
South Carolina's challenge is rapidly rising housing costs in desirable areas—Charleston jumped from $242,000 median (2020) to $410,000+ (2025). However, South Carolina offers massive tax advantages: zero state tax on military retirement (saves $2,000-$4,500/year) and full property tax exemption for 100% disabled veterans (saves $1,500-$4,000/year), substantially offsetting housing costs.
Overall, South Carolina cities excel for quality of life (warm climate, beaches, low crime in suburbs), veteran employment (1.7% unemployment—7th lowest nationally), and military community (large active-duty presence at Joint Base Charleston, Fort Jackson, Shaw AFB). Best for veterans prioritizing southern lifestyle, moderate cost of living, and excellent tax benefits.
Ranking Methodology
Cities Ranked By:
- Cost of living (housing, utilities, groceries): 30%
- Veteran population & community: 20%
- Proximity to VA healthcare: 15%
- Job opportunities: 20%
- Quality of life (crime, schools, amenities, climate): 15%
Top 10 Cities Ranked
#1: Myrtle Beach
Why It's #1:
Myrtle Beach earned the distinction of best city for veterans to live in 2025 according to Veterans United Home Loans, scoring highest among 300+ metro areas nationally. The city combines affordable housing ($300,000 median—significantly below Charleston and Hilton Head), 28,000+ veteran residents (8% of population—one of the highest concentrations in America), beach lifestyle, and South Carolina's veteran-friendly tax policies (zero military retirement tax, full property exemption for 100% disabled veterans).
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $300,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,650/month
- 35% below Charleston, 38% below Hilton Head
- Affordable by coastal standards
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 98/100 (2% below national average)
- Housing: 85/100 (15% below national average)
- Groceries: 100/100 (at national average)
- Utilities: $145/month
- Transportation: $85/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 28,000+ (8% of residents—highest concentration in SC)
- Major VA facility: Myrtle Beach VA Clinic (3381 Phillis Boulevard)
- VFW/AL posts: 6 posts in Horry County
- Military installations nearby: None (nearest is Joint Base Charleston—2 hours)
- Strong veteran support organizations: Veterans Welcome Home Resource Center (built 25 tiny homes for homeless veterans)
VA Healthcare Access:
- Myrtle Beach VA Clinic: In city (primary care, mental health, lab, pharmacy)
- Charleston VA Medical Center: 90 minutes (for specialty care and surgery)
- Community Care network: Excellent (Tidelands Health, Grand Strand Medical Center, Conway Medical Center)
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.8% (slightly higher than state average due to seasonal economy)
- Major employers: Coastal Carolina University, Tidelands Health, Grand Strand Medical Center, hospitality/tourism (thousands of jobs), retail, Horry County Schools
- Average salary: $48,000 (lower than Charleston/Columbia due to service economy)
- Veteran hiring: Good—hospitality, healthcare, and education sectors actively recruit veterans
Quality of Life:
- Climate: Mild winters (50°F), hot summers (85°F), 215 sunny days/year, hurricane risk (coastal)
- Crime rate: Moderate (higher in tourist areas; safer in suburban communities like Carolina Forest, Murrells Inlet, Surfside Beach)
- Schools: Horry County Schools rated 6/10 (average); private schools available
- Recreation: 60+ miles of beaches, golf (over 100 courses), fishing, boating, Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, entertainment
- Lifestyle: Beach town atmosphere, tourism-driven economy, retiree-friendly
Pros:
- Named best city for veterans 2025 (Veterans United)
- Affordable coastal living (much cheaper than Charleston or Hilton Head)
- 28,000+ veterans—largest veteran community in SC (8% of population)
- Beach lifestyle: 60+ miles of coastline, warm climate, outdoor recreation
- Zero military retirement tax (saves $2,000-$4,500/year)
- 100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption ($1,440/year savings on median home)
- Excellent healthcare access (Myrtle Beach VA Clinic + Tidelands Health)
- Lower property taxes (0.48% effective rate—among lowest in SC)
Cons:
- Tourist crowds (summers are packed; traffic congestion)
- Hurricane risk (coastal location; evacuations during hurricane season)
- Lower average salaries (service economy)
- Schools are average (6/10 rating)
- Limited high-tech or defense jobs (hospitality/healthcare dominated)
- 90 min to Charleston VA Medical Center for specialty care
Best For: Retired veterans seeking affordable coastal living, veterans who prioritize beach lifestyle and recreation, veterans with remote jobs or retirement income (not dependent on local job market), veterans age 50+ seeking warm climate and golf
#2: Charleston
Why It's #2:
Charleston combines world-class quality of life, strong economy, excellent veteran support, and on-site VA medical center. It ranked #1 for veterans by Navy Federal Credit Union (2020 and 2022) and consistently ranks among America's top cities nationally. Charleston offers the best of everything—cultural amenities, beaches, history, strong job market—but you'll pay a premium. Median home prices exceed $410,000 (70% higher than state average).
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $410,000
- Rent (2BR): $2,000/month
- 86% above state average ($220,000)
- Housing costs rising 8-10%/year
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 112/100 (12% above national average)
- Housing: 140/100 (40% above national average)
- Groceries: 102/100
- Utilities: $160/month
- Transportation: $95/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 35,000+ in metro area (5.5%)
- Military installations: Joint Base Charleston (Air Force Base + Naval Weapons Station)
- VFW/AL posts: 12+ posts in Charleston County
- Strong military culture: Active duty + retirees + civilian contractors create robust military community
VA Healthcare Access:
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center: In city (109 Bee Street)
- Services: Full medical center with surgery, inpatient care, specialty care, mental health, spinal cord injury unit
- Quality: 4 stars (above average)
- Wait times: Primary care 12-18 days; specialty care 25-40 days
- Charleston Vet Center: North Charleston (5603A Rivers Avenue)
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.2%
- Major employers: Joint Base Charleston (15,000+ military + civilians), Boeing (7,000+ employees), Ralph H. Johnson VAMC (3,000+ employees), MUSC (17,000+ employees), BAE Systems, Bosch, Volvo, Google (data center), hospitality/tourism, Port of Charleston
- Average salary: $62,000
- Veteran hiring: Excellent—Joint Base Charleston, Boeing (SkillBridge partner), BAE Systems, federal contractors actively recruit veterans
Quality of Life:
- Climate: Mild winters (55°F), hot/humid summers (85°F), 209 sunny days/year, hurricane risk
- Crime rate: Low in suburbs (Mount Pleasant, Summerville, West Ashley, James Island); higher downtown and North Charleston
- Schools: Charleston County Schools rated 7/10 (good); Mount Pleasant schools 9/10 (excellent)
- Recreation: Historic downtown, beaches (Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island), harbor tours, Fort Sumter, Magnolia Plantation, world-class restaurants, arts and culture
- Lifestyle: Southern charm, walkable downtown, coastal living, strong cultural scene
Pros:
- #1 for veterans (Navy Federal 2020, 2022)
- World-class quality of life—consistently ranked top U.S. city
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center on-site (4 stars, full services)
- Joint Base Charleston: 15,000+ military/civilian jobs
- Boeing: 7,000+ jobs, SkillBridge partner, actively recruits veterans
- Strong economy: Aerospace, defense, healthcare, tech, port operations
- Beaches, history, culture, dining (James Beard Award restaurants)
- Zero military retirement tax (saves $2,000-$4,500/year)
- 100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption ($2,091/year savings on median home)
- Excellent schools in suburbs (Mount Pleasant 9/10)
Cons:
- Expensive: $410,000 median home (86% above state average)
- Rapidly rising costs: Housing up 8-10%/year
- Hurricane risk (coastal; evacuations required)
- Tourist crowds (especially spring and summer)
- Traffic congestion (bridges are bottlenecks)
- Hot/humid summers (heat index 95-100°F)
Best For: Veterans working at Joint Base Charleston or Boeing, high-earning veterans who value quality of life, veteran families prioritizing top schools (Mount Pleasant), veterans who want world-class city amenities + beach lifestyle, veterans with VA healthcare needs (on-site medical center)
#3: Columbia
Why It's #3:
Columbia offers the best overall value for South Carolina veterans: affordable housing ($220,000 median—50% cheaper than Charleston), direct access to Dorn VA Medical Center, Fort Jackson civilian employment (3,500 jobs), and South Carolina's capital city amenities. It's the state's most affordable major city while still offering strong job market, universities (USC, Benedict, Allen), and central location (2 hours to Charleston or Greenville).
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $220,000 (Richland County)
- Rent (2BR): $1,350/month
- 46% below Charleston
- Most affordable major city
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 93/100 (7% below national average)
- Housing: 78/100 (22% below national average)
- Groceries: 98/100
- Utilities: $140/month
- Transportation: $80/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 18,000+ in metro area (4%)
- Military installations: Fort Jackson (Army's premier Basic Combat Training center)
- VFW/AL posts: 15+ posts in Richland/Lexington counties
- Fort Jackson impact: 50% of all Army recruits train at Fort Jackson; strong military presence
VA Healthcare Access:
- William Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center: In city (6439 Garners Ferry Road)
- Services: Full medical center with surgery, inpatient care, specialty care, mental health, rehabilitation
- Quality: 3 stars (average)
- Wait times: Primary care 15-22 days; specialty care 30-45 days
- Columbia Vet Center: Downtown (1513 Pickens Street)
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.5%
- Major employers: Fort Jackson (3,500 civilians, $2.2B economic impact), Dorn VA Medical Center (3,000+ employees), State of South Carolina (largest employer—15,000+ jobs in capital), Prisma Health (10,000+ employees), BlueCross BlueShield of SC, Colonial Life, Amazon (fulfillment center), University of South Carolina (28,000+ students, 6,000+ employees)
- Average salary: $54,000
- Veteran hiring: Excellent—Fort Jackson civilian jobs, state government hiring preference (must interview one veteran per position), Dorn VAMC
Quality of Life:
- Climate: Mild winters (50°F), hot/humid summers (90°F), 216 sunny days/year
- Crime rate: Moderate (varies by neighborhood; safer suburbs in Lexington, Irmo, Northeast Columbia)
- Schools: Richland County schools 5-7/10 (variable); Lexington County schools 7-9/10 (good to excellent)
- Recreation: Congaree National Park, Riverbanks Zoo, Lake Murray, USC athletics, minor league baseball (Columbia Fireflies), State Museum, vibrant downtown
- Lifestyle: College town atmosphere, state capital, central location
Pros:
- Most affordable major city: $220,000 median home (46% below Charleston)
- Dorn VA Medical Center on-site (full services)
- Fort Jackson: 3,500 civilian jobs with veteran preference
- State government jobs: 15,000+ positions with mandatory veteran hiring preference
- University of South Carolina: 1,500+ student veterans, GI Bill approved, Yellow Ribbon
- Central location: 2 hours to Charleston, Greenville, or Charlotte
- Zero military retirement tax (saves $2,000-$4,500/year)
- 100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption ($1,628/year savings on median home)
- Low cost of living (7% below national average)
Cons:
- Higher crime in some neighborhoods (research carefully)
- Hot/humid summers (90°F+ with high humidity)
- Schools variable (Richland County 5-7/10; better in Lexington suburbs)
- Less walkable than Charleston (car-dependent)
- Limited cultural amenities compared to Charleston or Greenville
- VA wait times longer than Charleston (specialty care 30-45 days)
Best For: Veterans seeking affordability + major city amenities, Fort Jackson employees or those seeking federal civilian jobs, veterans using GI Bill at USC, state government employees, veterans prioritizing low cost of living, families seeking suburban living (Lexington, Irmo)
#4: Greenville
Why It's #4:
Greenville is South Carolina's hidden gem—7% below national cost of living, thriving job market (Michelin, BMW, Lockheed Martin), beautiful Upstate mountain scenery, and excellent quality of life. It's consistently ranked among America's best small cities. Greenville lacks the beach appeal of Charleston or Myrtle Beach, but offers lower costs, strong economy, and proximity to Blue Ridge Mountains.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $285,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,525/month
- 30% below Charleston
- Affordable for its quality
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 93/100 (7% below national average)
- Housing: 73/100 (27% below national average)
- Groceries: 98/100
- Utilities: $135/month
- Transportation: $85/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 12,000+ in metro area (3.5%)
- Military installations: None nearby (Shaw AFB is 2 hours)
- VFW/AL posts: 10+ posts in Greenville County
- Smaller military community compared to Charleston/Columbia, but growing
VA Healthcare Access:
- Greenville VA Clinic: In city (41 Park Creek Drive)
- Services: Primary care, mental health, lab, pharmacy, telehealth
- Columbia VA Medical Center: 90 minutes (for specialty care)
- Charleston VA Medical Center: 3 hours
- Community Care: Excellent (Prisma Health Upstate, Bon Secours St. Francis—strong networks)
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.3%
- Major employers: Michelin (8,000+ SC employees), BMW (Spartanburg—30 min, 11,000+ employees), GE Power (1,500+), Lockheed Martin, Greenville Health System (12,000+ employees), Fluor, Hubbell, TD Bank operations center, Amazon fulfillment
- Average salary: $58,000
- Veteran hiring: Good—manufacturing, healthcare, tech sectors value veteran skills
Quality of Life:
- Climate: Mild winters (45°F), hot summers (85°F), 218 sunny days/year, four distinct seasons
- Crime rate: Low (Greenville is one of SC's safest cities)
- Schools: Greenville County Schools rated 7-8/10 (good to very good)
- Recreation: Downtown Greenville (Falls Park, Main Street), Blue Ridge Mountains (45 min), hiking, waterfalls, Swamp Rabbit Trail (biking), cultural events, restaurants
- Lifestyle: Small city charm, arts and culture, mountain access
Pros:
- 7% below national cost of living (housing 27% below national average)
- $285,000 median home (30% cheaper than Charleston)
- Strong economy: Michelin, BMW, Lockheed, GE, healthcare, tech
- Beautiful downtown (Falls Park, Main Street)—ranked top downtown in America
- Blue Ridge Mountains 45 min (hiking, waterfalls, outdoor recreation)
- Safe (one of SC's lowest crime rates)
- Good schools (7-8/10)
- Zero military retirement tax (saves $2,000-$4,500/year)
- 100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption ($1,853/year savings)
- Four seasons (mild winters, fall colors)
Cons:
- No beach (2.5 hours to Charleston coast)
- No military installations nearby (limits federal civilian jobs)
- VA care: Clinic only (specialty care requires 90-min drive to Columbia)
- Smaller veteran community (3.5% vs. 8% in Myrtle Beach)
- Hot/humid summers (though cooler than Lowcountry)
Best For: Veterans seeking affordability + strong economy, veterans in manufacturing/tech/healthcare careers, outdoor enthusiasts (mountains, hiking, waterfalls), families prioritizing safety and good schools, veterans who prefer four seasons over beach lifestyle
#5: Summerville
Why It's #5:
Summerville (Charleston suburb) offers the best of both worlds: proximity to Charleston and Joint Base Charleston (20-30 min), safer neighborhoods, better schools, and lower housing costs ($320,000 median—22% below Charleston). It's known as "Flowertown in the Pines" and offers family-friendly suburban living with easy access to Charleston jobs and beaches.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $320,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,650/month
- 22% below Charleston city
- Affordable Charleston-area suburb
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 102/100 (2% above national average)
- Housing: 115/100 (15% above national average, but below Charleston)
- Utilities: $155/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 4,500+ (5%)
- Military installations: Joint Base Charleston 20-30 min
- VFW/AL posts: 3 posts in Summerville/Dorchester County
- Strong military community (many Joint Base Charleston families live in Summerville)
VA Healthcare Access:
- Charleston VA Medical Center: 25-30 minutes
- Charleston Vet Center: 20 minutes
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.1%
- Major employers: Same as Charleston (Joint Base Charleston, Boeing, MUSC—all within 30 min commute), Summerville Medical Center, Dorchester County Schools, retail
- Average salary: $60,000
- Veteran hiring: Excellent (Joint Base Charleston proximity)
Quality of Life:
- Climate: Same as Charleston (mild winters, hot summers)
- Crime rate: Low (safer than Charleston city)
- Schools: Dorchester County School District 2 rated 8/10 (very good)—better than Charleston County average
- Recreation: Azalea Park, historic downtown, 25 min to Charleston beaches
Pros:
- 22% cheaper than Charleston ($320,000 vs. $410,000)
- 20-30 min to Joint Base Charleston (easy commute)
- 25 min to Charleston VA Medical Center
- Safer than Charleston city (family-friendly)
- Better schools (8/10 vs. Charleston County 7/10)
- Small-town feel with Charleston access
- Zero military retirement tax
- 100% disabled vets: full property tax exemption
Cons:
- Commute to Charleston/Joint Base (20-30 min)
- Limited walkability (car-dependent)
- Fewer amenities than Charleston city
- Still expensive compared to Columbia/Upstate
Best For: Veteran families working at Joint Base Charleston, veterans prioritizing schools and safety, veterans who want Charleston access without city living, families with children
#6: Mount Pleasant
Why It's #6:
Mount Pleasant (Charleston suburb) is Charleston's wealthiest suburb with the best schools in the state (9/10), beautiful waterfront, and highest quality of life. However, it's expensive—median home $545,000 (33% higher than Charleston city). Best for high-earning veterans who prioritize top schools and safe neighborhoods.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $545,000
- Rent (2BR): $2,350/month
- 33% above Charleston city
- Most expensive city on this list
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 125/100 (25% above national average)
- Housing: 165/100 (65% above national average)
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 4,000+ (4%)
- Military installations: Joint Base Charleston 15-20 min (across bridges)
VA Healthcare Access:
- Charleston VA Medical Center: 20 minutes
Employment:
- Same as Charleston (Joint Base Charleston, Boeing, MUSC—all within 20-30 min)
- Average salary: $75,000 (highest on this list)
Quality of Life:
- Crime rate: Very low (safest Charleston-area community)
- Schools: 9/10 (best in South Carolina)
- Recreation: Waterfront parks, beaches, Patriots Point Naval Museum
- Lifestyle: Upscale suburban, family-friendly
Pros:
- Best schools in South Carolina (9/10)
- Safest Charleston-area community
- Beautiful waterfront (Charleston Harbor, Intracoastal Waterway)
- 15-20 min to Joint Base Charleston
- 20 min to Charleston VA Medical Center
- High quality of life
Cons:
- Very expensive: $545,000 median home (33% above Charleston)
- High cost of living (25% above national average)
- Tourist traffic (bridges to beaches)
Best For: High-earning veterans, veteran families prioritizing top schools, veterans working at Joint Base Charleston or Boeing
#7: Rock Hill
Why It's #7:
Rock Hill (York County, near Charlotte NC border) offers affordable living ($310,000 median), proximity to Charlotte job market (30 min), and brand-new Rock Hill VA Clinic (opened July 2024). It's ideal for veterans seeking small-city affordability with big-city access.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $310,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,450/month
- 25% below Charleston
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 95/100 (5% below national average)
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 3,500+ (4%)
- VFW/AL posts: 4 posts in York County
VA Healthcare Access:
- Rock Hill VA Clinic: In city (new 26,000 sq ft facility opened July 2024)
- Columbia VA Medical Center: 60 minutes (for specialty care)
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.6%
- Major employers: Piedmont Medical Center, Spirit Communications, 3D Systems, Baxter, Rock Hill Schools, Charlotte job market (30 min)
- Average salary: $51,000
Quality of Life:
- Crime rate: Moderate
- Schools: 6-7/10 (average)
- Recreation: Lake Wylie, Winthrop University, Charlotte 30 min
Pros:
- Affordable: $310,000 median home
- Brand-new Rock Hill VA Clinic (2024)
- Charlotte 30 min (major job market)
- Lake Wylie recreation
Cons:
- Schools average (6-7/10)
- Limited local job market (Charlotte-dependent)
- No major military installations
Best For: Veterans seeking affordability near Charlotte, veterans working in Charlotte, veterans who want small-city living with big-city access
#8: Hilton Head Island
Why It's #8:
Hilton Head is South Carolina's premier retirement destination—beautiful island, golf, beaches, upscale amenities—but extremely expensive ($480,000 median home). Best for affluent retirees who prioritize resort lifestyle over affordability.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $480,000
- Rent (2BR): $2,100/month
- 17% above Charleston
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 118/100 (18% above national average)
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 2,500+ (6%)
- Military installations: Parris Island MCRD 30 min, Beaufort MCAS 20 min
VA Healthcare Access:
- Beaufort VA Clinic: 20 minutes
- Charleston VA Medical Center: 90 minutes
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.0%
- Major employers: Hospitality/tourism, golf courses, healthcare, retail
- Average salary: $52,000 (service economy)
Quality of Life:
- Crime rate: Very low (safe)
- Schools: 7/10 (good)
- Recreation: 24+ golf courses, 12 miles of beaches, upscale dining, arts
- Lifestyle: Resort island, retiree-focused
Pros:
- Beautiful island setting
- Excellent golf (24+ courses)
- Safe (very low crime)
- Upscale amenities
Cons:
- Very expensive: $480,000 median home
- Limited job market (tourism-focused)
- 90 min to Charleston VA Medical Center
Best For: Affluent retired veterans, veterans prioritizing golf and resort lifestyle, veterans with remote income
#9: Spartanburg
Why It's #9:
Spartanburg (Upstate, near Greenville) offers affordability ($200,000 median), proximity to BMW plant (major employer), and small-city living. It's one of South Carolina's most affordable cities.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $200,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,200/month
- Most affordable on this list (tied with Columbia)
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 88/100 (12% below national average)
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 3,000+ (4%)
- VFW/AL posts: 5 posts
- Spartanburg VA Clinic: In city
VA Healthcare Access:
- Spartanburg VA Clinic: In city
- Columbia VA Medical Center: 90 minutes
Employment:
- Unemployment: 2.7%
- Major employers: BMW (Greer—20 min, 11,000+ employees), Spartanburg Regional Healthcare, Michelin, Denny's Corp (HQ)
- Average salary: $50,000
Quality of Life:
- Crime rate: Moderate (higher in downtown; safer in suburbs)
- Schools: 6-7/10 (average)
- Recreation: Croft State Park, downtown revitalization
Pros:
- Very affordable: $200,000 median home
- Spartanburg VA Clinic in city
- BMW 20 min (major employer)
- 12% below national cost of living
Cons:
- Higher crime (downtown areas)
- Schools average (6-7/10)
- Less appealing than Greenville (30 min north)
Best For: Veterans seeking maximum affordability, BMW employees, veterans prioritizing low cost over amenities
#10: Florence
Why It's #10:
Florence (Pee Dee region) offers extreme affordability ($185,000 median—lowest on this list), Florence VA Clinic access, and McLeod Health employment. However, it's remote, has limited job market, and below-average schools.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $185,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,100/month
- Lowest cost on this list
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 85/100 (15% below national average)
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 2,500+ (5%)
- Florence VA Clinic: In city
- Florence National Cemetery: In city
VA Healthcare Access:
- Florence VA Clinic: In city
- Columbia VA Medical Center: 90 minutes
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.2%
- Major employers: McLeod Health (5,000+ employees), Honda Motor Company, Roche Carolina, Florence School District
- Average salary: $46,000
Quality of Life:
- Crime rate: Moderate to high (higher than state average)
- Schools: 5-6/10 (below average)
- Recreation: Florence Motor Speedway, Lake City
Pros:
- Most affordable: $185,000 median home
- Florence VA Clinic in city
- Florence National Cemetery in city
- 15% below national cost of living
Cons:
- Remote location (limited big-city access)
- Higher crime (above state average)
- Poor schools (5-6/10)
- Limited job market
Best For: Veterans seeking extreme affordability, veterans prioritizing low cost above all else, veterans with remote income
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| City | Median Home Price | Rent (2BR) | Overall Cost of Living | Vet Population | VA Facility Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Myrtle Beach | $300,000 | $1,650 | 98/100 (2% below avg) | 28,000 (8%) | Clinic in city |
| Charleston | $410,000 | $2,000 | 112/100 (12% above avg) | 35,000+ (5.5%) | Medical Center in city |
| Columbia | $220,000 | $1,350 | 93/100 (7% below avg) | 18,000+ (4%) | Medical Center in city |
| Greenville | $285,000 | $1,525 | 93/100 (7% below avg) | 12,000+ (3.5%) | Clinic in city |
| Summerville | $320,000 | $1,650 | 102/100 (2% above avg) | 4,500+ (5%) | 25 min to Med Center |
| Mount Pleasant | $545,000 | $2,350 | 125/100 (25% above avg) | 4,000+ (4%) | 20 min to Med Center |
| Rock Hill | $310,000 | $1,450 | 95/100 (5% below avg) | 3,500+ (4%) | Clinic in city (2024) |
| Hilton Head | $480,000 | $2,100 | 118/100 (18% above avg) | 2,500+ (6%) | 20 min to clinic |
| Spartanburg | $200,000 | $1,200 | 88/100 (12% below avg) | 3,000+ (4%) | Clinic in city |
| Florence | $185,000 | $1,100 | 85/100 (15% below avg) | 2,500+ (5%) | Clinic in city |
Tax Benefits Impact on Cost of Living
While housing costs are rising in South Carolina's desirable cities, veteran tax benefits substantially offset costs:
Military Retirees (all ratings):
- Zero state tax on military retirement (effective 2022): Saves $2,000-$4,500/year
- Example: O-5 retiree with $60,000 pension saves $3,990/year vs. pre-2022 SC (at 7% rate)
100% Disabled Veterans:
- Full property tax exemption on home + up to 5 acres: Saves $1,400-$4,000/year depending on location
- Vehicle exemption (2 vehicles): Saves $1,000 one-time (sales tax) + $80-$120/year (registration)
Combined Benefits (100% Disabled Military Retiree):
- Charleston ($410,000 home, $50,000 retirement): $5,000+/year total savings
- Columbia ($220,000 home, $50,000 retirement): $4,500+/year total savings
- Myrtle Beach ($300,000 home, $50,000 retirement): $4,400+/year total savings
Over 20 years, these tax savings total $80,000-$100,000—substantially offsetting higher housing costs in Charleston or coastal areas.
Climate Comparison
All South Carolina cities share similar climate characteristics:
Lowcountry (Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Beaufort):
- Winters: Mild (50-55°F)
- Summers: Hot/humid (85-90°F, heat index 95-100°F)
- Sunny days: 205-215/year
- Hurricane risk: High (coastal; evacuations required)
Midlands (Columbia):
- Winters: Mild (45-50°F)
- Summers: Very hot/humid (90-95°F, heat index 100-105°F)
- Sunny days: 215-220/year
- Hurricane risk: Low (inland)
Upstate (Greenville, Spartanburg):
- Winters: Cooler (40-45°F, occasional snow)
- Summers: Hot (85-90°F, less humid than Lowcountry)
- Sunny days: 215-220/year
- Hurricane risk: Very low (inland, mountainous)
- Four distinct seasons (fall colors, spring blooms)
Who Should Move Where?
Choose Myrtle Beach if:
- You're a retired veteran seeking affordable coastal living
- You prioritize beach lifestyle, golf, warm climate
- You're part of the 28,000-strong veteran community (8% of population)
- You're age 50+ and prioritizing recreation over career growth
Choose Charleston if:
- You work at Joint Base Charleston or Boeing
- You prioritize world-class quality of life and cultural amenities
- You can afford $410,000+ housing
- You need frequent VA medical care (on-site medical center)
- You're a high-earning veteran or dual-income household
Choose Columbia if:
- You prioritize affordability ($220,000 median—cheapest major city)
- You work at Fort Jackson or state government
- You're using GI Bill at University of South Carolina
- You need VA medical care (on-site medical center)
- You want central location (2 hours to Charleston or Greenville)
Choose Greenville if:
- You work in manufacturing (Michelin, BMW, GE)
- You prefer mountains over beaches
- You prioritize safety, good schools, and affordability
- You want four seasons (fall colors, mild winters)
- You value small-city charm with strong economy
Choose Summerville/Mount Pleasant if:
- You work at Joint Base Charleston but want suburban family living
- You prioritize top schools (Mount Pleasant: 9/10; Summerville: 8/10)
- You want Charleston access without city living
- You have children and prioritize safety
Choose Rock Hill if:
- You work in Charlotte NC (30 min commute)
- You want small-city affordability near big-city jobs
- You prioritize new VA clinic access (opened 2024)
Choose Hilton Head if:
- You're an affluent retired veteran
- You prioritize golf (24+ courses) and resort lifestyle
- You can afford $480,000+ housing
- You value island living and upscale amenities
Choose Spartanburg/Florence if:
- You prioritize extreme affordability ($185,000-$200,000 median)
- You're on fixed income (retirement/disability only)
- You have remote income and don't depend on local job market
- You're willing to sacrifice amenities for low cost
Additional Considerations
Best Cities for Families
- Mount Pleasant (9/10 schools, safest)
- Summerville (8/10 schools, affordable Charleston suburb)
- Greenville (7-8/10 schools, safe, affordable)
- Lexington (Columbia suburb—8/10 schools)
Best Cities for Jobs
- Charleston (Joint Base Charleston, Boeing, MUSC, strong economy)
- Columbia (Fort Jackson, state government, USC, Prisma Health)
- Greenville (Michelin, BMW, GE, Lockheed Martin)
Best Cities for Retirees
- Myrtle Beach (affordable coastal, 28,000 veterans, recreation)
- Hilton Head (upscale resort, golf, safe—expensive)
- Summerville (quiet suburban, proximity to Charleston)
- Columbia (affordable, VA medical center on-site)
Best Cities for VA Healthcare Access
- Charleston (Ralph H. Johnson VAMC—4 stars, full services)
- Columbia (Dorn VAMC—3 stars, full services)
- Myrtle Beach (VA Clinic—primary care + mental health)
Best Overall Value
- Columbia ($220,000 median, VA medical center, Fort Jackson jobs, low cost of living)
- Myrtle Beach ($300,000 median, beach lifestyle, 28,000 veterans, VA clinic)
- Greenville ($285,000 median, strong economy, safe, good schools)
Resources
Real Estate & Housing:
- Military relocation resources: militarybyowner.com, ahrn.com
- VA Home Loan information: benefits.va.gov/homeloans
Moving & Relocation:
- South Carolina Welcome Centers: discoversouthcarolina.com
- Chamber of Commerce contacts: Charleston (843-577-2510), Columbia (803-733-1110), Greenville (864-242-1050)
Veteran Services:
- SC Department of Veterans' Affairs: (803) 960-8327 | scdva.sc.gov
- County Veterans Affairs Offices: Find your county at scdva.sc.gov/county-veterans-affairs-offices
- Ralph H. Johnson VAMC (Charleston): (843) 577-5011
- William Jennings Bryan Dorn VAMC (Columbia): (803) 776-4000
Employment:
- SC Works (veteran services): scworks.org/jobseeker/jobseeker-programs/veteran-services
- Operation Palmetto Employment: scdva.sc.gov/employment
- USAJobs (federal civilian jobs): usajobs.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the best city in South Carolina for veterans overall?
A: Myrtle Beach ranked #1 nationally by Veterans United (2025) for its combination of affordability ($300,000 median), 28,000 veteran community (8% of population), beach lifestyle, and VA clinic access. Charleston ranks #2 for quality of life, on-site VA medical center, and Joint Base Charleston jobs (but expensive at $410,000 median). Columbia offers the best value at $220,000 median with VA medical center and Fort Jackson jobs.
Q: Where is housing most affordable?
A: Florence ($185,000 median) is cheapest, followed by Spartanburg ($200,000) and Columbia ($220,000). However, consider job market and quality of life—Columbia offers the best balance of affordability + major city amenities + VA medical center access.
Q: Which city has the best VA healthcare access?
A: Charleston and Columbia both have full VA medical centers on-site. Charleston's Ralph H. Johnson VAMC is rated 4 stars (above average); Columbia's Dorn VAMC is rated 3 stars (average). Both provide full services including surgery, inpatient care, and specialty care.
Q: Where are the most veteran jobs?
A: Charleston (Joint Base Charleston, Boeing, federal contractors), Columbia (Fort Jackson, state government, Dorn VAMC), and Greenville (Michelin, BMW, GE, Lockheed Martin) offer the most veteran employment opportunities.
Q: Which city is best for families with children?
A: Mount Pleasant has the best schools (9/10) but is expensive ($545,000 median). Summerville offers excellent schools (8/10) at lower cost ($320,000). Greenville balances good schools (7-8/10), safety, and affordability ($285,000).
Q: Should I live on the coast or inland?
A: Coast (Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head): Beach lifestyle, warm winters, but expensive housing, hurricane risk, and tourist crowds. Inland (Columbia, Greenville, Spartanburg): More affordable, less humidity, no hurricane risk, but no beach access. Choose based on priorities: lifestyle (coast) vs. affordability (inland).
Q: How much do veteran tax benefits save me?
A: Military retirees: $2,000-$4,500/year (zero state tax on military retirement). 100% disabled veterans: $1,400-$4,000/year (full property tax exemption). Combined: $4,000-$8,000/year in total tax savings. Over 20 years: $80,000-$160,000 saved.
Q: Are South Carolina cities safe?
A: Safety varies. Safest: Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Hilton Head, Greenville suburbs. Moderate: Charleston (varies by neighborhood), Columbia (Lexington suburbs safer than downtown), Myrtle Beach (tourist areas). Higher crime: Florence, downtown Spartanburg, North Charleston. Research specific neighborhoods carefully.
Q: What's the cost of living difference between Charleston and Columbia?
A: Housing: Charleston $410,000 vs. Columbia $220,000 (86% higher in Charleston). Overall cost of living: Charleston 12% above national average vs. Columbia 7% below (19-point difference). Columbia is 46% cheaper overall. However, Charleston offers better job market, higher salaries, and on-site VA medical center.
Q: Which city is best for retired veterans?
A: Myrtle Beach (#1 for retirees)—affordable coastal living, 28,000 veteran community, recreation. Hilton Head (affluent retirees)—upscale resort, golf, safe (expensive). Columbia (budget-conscious retirees)—affordable, VA medical center on-site, low cost of living.
Last updated: 2025. Housing costs and rankings change frequently. Verify current home prices and cost of living data before moving.