Moving from Houston to South Carolina? Things You Should Know About The Palmetto State!
“I can relate to how intimidating it may be to pack up your life and move across the country to a new state, but I’m here to tell you that it’s worth the adventure.
South Carolina will offer up new opportunities for work, education, and entertainment in ways that you can’t even imagine right now.
Whether you’re going to be a student at Clemson, a new hire at Boeing, a newlywed looking for your dream home in Charleston, or a retiree looking for a change of pace from the big city life in Columbia or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has something for you!” Aimee B.
If you’re thinking about moving to South Carolina, you’re in for a real treat! The Palmetto State is, by far, one of the most beautiful and welcoming places.
South Carolina has something for everyone, from the stunning beaches to the lush, green forests. And the people here are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet!
If you’re thinking of moving to South Carolina, you’ll want to read this first!
South Carolina is a great place to live, with plenty of things to do and plenty of friendly people. The weather is mild and welcoming most of the year, and the beaches are beautiful. There are also plenty of great restaurants and nightlife options.
South Carolina is also an excellent place for families due to its great schools (many good private schools) and affordable housing costs. The state also has some beautiful “real estate” for sale.
And it’s an ideal spot for retirees because SC offers several tax exemptions for seniors on income, property, sales, and educational expenses, among other things. It’s also a fine place to conduct business.
So what are you waiting for? Make a move to South Carolina today and start enjoying all that this wonderful state has to offer!
What Draws People to South Carolina?
Want to know why folks are moving to South Carolina? Some people are drawn to the Palmetto State because it is located adjacent to North Carolina and Georgia, both popular states for retirees. South Carolina has a lower population density than other Southern states, so it is also an appealing destination for those who need more space.
Other draws include the state’s low cost of living, relatively mild winters, and no state income tax. Those who seek to escape overcrowded or high-cost states often find that South Carolina provides an ideal lifestyle without breaking the bank.
South Carolina also has charming cities and towns, including Charleston, Beaufort, and Myrtle Beach. With the Atlantic Coast bordering the state on three sides and plenty of coastline along South Carolina’s central region, visitors to this state enjoy year-round access to beaches, rivers, and other outdoor activities.
South Carolina’s Four Seasons
Many new residents quickly discover that South Carolina has four seasons rather than hot and humid summers. Depending on the part of the state, the weather can range from short, mild winters to long warm ones.
For example, the mountains in North Carolina, near Asheville, experience heavy snowfall during the winter months when the temperatures are milder in South Carolina. The state’s coastal area, on the other hand, is known for having a more moderate climate all year round.
The average annual temperature in SC is 64.5 °F (18.1 °C). The average high temperature in the summer is around 91 °F (32.8 °C), and the average low temperature in the winter is about 33 °F (0.6 °C).
The average annual rainfall in South Carolina is around 54.7 inches.
South Carolina has some of the most pleasant and welcoming weather during the Spring and Fall months. The temperatures are mild, the humidity is low, and it’s perfect for spending time outdoors. There are several entertaining things to do in South Carolina during the Spring and Fall, such as going to festivals and taking walks in the park.
Hurricane Season
When hurricane season hits South Carolina, it’s essential to be prepared. Ensure you are readily equipped and know what to do if a storm hits.
The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1st to November 30th, and the season’s peak is usually in September. In South Carolina, we often see storms like Hurricane Florence, which can cause many damages.
If a storm hits, make sure you stay safe and follow these guidelines:
- Stay indoors if possible.
- If you have to leave your home, do so only if it’s safe to do so
- Avoid flooded areas
- Watch for downed power lines and trees.
- Never drive through water that’s over the road. If you’re trapped in your vehicle by high water, get to the highest possible point and call 911
- Stay away from any loose or downed power lines.
- Turn off electricity at your main breaker or fuse box when instructed to do so
If you need to evacuate, ensure all your essential documents and belongings. It would behoove you if you also had a plan for where you will go and how you will get there. Try to stay with family or friends who live in a safe area if possible.
Quality of Life in South Carolina
South Carolina is the setting for some of the best beaches in America, with Bennett’s Head State Park and Wild Dunes leading the way. South Carolina also boasts over 900 miles of rivers, streams, and lakes.
It’s not all about water, though; the state has plenty of mountains too! There are enough hikes to last you a lifetime between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains. And no Southern experience would be complete without sweet tea!
People from South Carolina are welcoming and have a lot of southern hospitality. They are very family-oriented. Most people are God-fearing and very family-oriented. The two biggest cities in South Carolina are Columbia and Charleston.
The school systems are suitable for the most part, particularly the state’s larger metropolitan areas. However, there are some places where you may want to avoid sending your child to an underperforming school system.
According to Ben Guarino of the Washington Post, there is also a lot of red tape with public schools; new teachers often complain about getting bogged down in unnecessary tasks. For this reason, many families prefer homeschooling or private education instead.
Finding Employment in South Carolina
The job market in South Carolina is doing well. Many companies are looking to expand their businesses into the state, and there are many opportunities for people looking for work. The unemployment rate is 3.7% (Nov 2021), below the national average at 4.2% (Nov 2021), and there are a lot of jobs in a variety of industries.
The job market in South Carolina is a bit more stable than the job market in Houston. Several industries are growing in the Palmetto State, such as information technology, healthcare, and manufacturing.
The top employers in South Carolina are BMW, Boeing, and Michelin. They have a lower crime rate than Houston and provide more job opportunities. Newcomers often find employment with local companies quickly, as many employers want to hire people from the outside.
The tourism industry is an incredible aspect of the South Carolina economy. Many jobs are available in the tourism industry, and the pay and benefits are usually good. The work can be demanding, but it’s also gratifying.
Some of the most popular jobs in the tourism industry are restaurants and hotels. There are also a great many jobs available in the transportation industry, and those jobs can be very lucrative. If you’re interested in careers in the tourism industry, South Carolina is a great place to start your journey.
How Is The Economy Doing?
The Palmetto State’s economy is doing well. It continues to be one of the US states with an unemployment rate below the national average. The living expense rate in South Carolina ranges from 2% to 10% below the national average.
Don’t forget to factor this info into your salary negotiation!
The state budget is on solid footing. South Carolina has an excellent credit rating, which means the state rarely gets charged high-interest rates when it borrows money for capital improvements or building projects.
The current tax environment in the Palmetto State also provides businesses with major economic development incentives as corporate income tax rates are as low as 5%.
The Community: Locals and Newcomers
Much of the state’s population growth occurs in and around major metropolitan areas such as Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. The foreign-born population has also been increasing.
Many immigrants come from Eastern Europe and Asia to fill open jobs in the business services sector and construction and manufacturing industries.
The state expects its immigrant population to continue to grow in the coming decades. According to one study, the foreign-born population in South Carolina is expected to increase by 192% between 2015 and 2035. That would mean that the foreign-born community in South Carolina could be more extensive than it is today by 2035.
The sense of community in South Carolina is quite strong. People are friendly and welcoming, and there are a lot of opportunities to get involved in the community. There are several popular festivals and events throughout the year, and it’s easy to find people who share your interests.
Because of this vital sense of community, there’s a significant amount of emphasis placed on family values. Many people in South Carolina have ties to families that go back hundreds of years, and it’s common for families to spend time together every day. Sundays are typically reserved for church and family activities.
The Great Outdoors
Kayaking
One of the best outdoor activities that you can do in South Carolina is to go kayaking. You can kayak on lakes, rivers, and even on the ocean! You will need to know whether you want to rent a kayak or buy one, but either way, it’s a fantastic experience. Not only is it great for exercise, but you also get some beautiful views of nature.
Golfing
You can also play golf in South Carolina! There are many golf courses throughout the state where you can play on 18 holes with friends or family. It’s a great activity to enjoy some time out in nature while getting some exercise at the same time!
Hiking
South Carolina hiking activities differ from one another in many different ways. Some of the activities include car camping, canoe camping, and backpacking.
- Car Camping: To go on a Car Camping trip is to stay at a campground and enjoy the nature and serenity of mother earth just outside your tent’s door. Most people usually drive into a campsite, but if the best camping experience is what you’re looking for, then you might try getting there by boat! This way, you’ll get the serenity of nature out in the open fresh air without having to deal with bugs.
- Canoe Camping: If you are not comfortable sleeping in a cramped space or you want something different than car camping, then Canoe Camping might be for you! The same rules apply to car camping, but you are bringing your canoe instead of driving to the place. This is an exciting and photo-opportunistic way to see what mother nature has to offer if you’re looking for something different than traditional camping.
- Backpacking: Backpacking is hiking with all your supplies on your back. This was pointed out for South Carolina because of how diverse and different each state’s hiking experience can be. All three occasions will provide you with a nature escape, and the serenity mother nature offers if you are willing to look.
The Beaches
South Carolina is the site of some of the most breathtaking beaches in the United States. Visit Charleston to see amazing beaches right off King Street or head down to Hilton Head Island to surf, sun, and take in the Southern coastal charm.
There are many outdoor-based activities that you can do in South Carolina ranging from fishing to river rafting. You could also go biking or rock climbing. Whatever adventure you’re looking for, chances are there’s a spot just waiting to host you in South Carolina.
What Is Crime Like in South Carolina?
The crime rate in South Carolina is lower than the national average. In fact, in 2017, the crime rate was 2,607 per 100,000 people, while the national average was 4,043 per 100,000 people.
There are several reasons for this: South Carolina has a smaller population than the national average, and the state has invested in law enforcement and crime prevention programs.
The criminal justice system in South Carolina can be much different than it is in Texas, and therefore you will need to be familiar with the laws.
Finding Healthcare
South Carolina has several healthcare services, including the Palmetto Family Planning Association. This association focuses on the reproductive health of the state’s citizens.
The association provides different healthcare services to empower individuals in their lives and preserve reproductive health.
Services include sexually transmitted infections, HIV counseling, testing and transmission counseling, pregnancy counseling, abortion care and counseling by ultrasound, treatment for substance abuse, and mental health counseling.
They also have a full-service Mobile Medical Unit that conducts outreach in rural communities without providers.
- South Carolina has a high number of doctors per capita.
- Rural areas have access to more medical care than many other states.
- South Carolina is ranked the third best state for health coverage in the United States.
- There are low-cost options like Medicaid and Medicare available to residents who need healthcare costs.
- Hospitals in SC provide quality services at reasonable prices, making them accessible to all residents, including those without insurance or financial resources.
- Residents can also take advantage of walk-in clinics that offer affordable rates and convenient hours.
- Residents don’t pay out-of-pocket expenses when they visit an emergency room or hospital emergency department unless Medicaid or Medicare insures them.
- There are many hospitals in South Carolina. The Palmetto State has the third-highest number of hospital beds per capita across the country.
- Residents spend less time waiting to be seen by a doctor than anywhere else in the country.
- 81.5% of physicians are accepting new patients, which makes getting an appointment relatively easy
Education in South Carolina
The school system in South Carolina is unique. It is composed of many public schools and charter schools. One of the benefits of attending a public school in South Carolina is that students can earn both a high-school diploma and an associate degree at the same time. In addition, all public schools in South Carolina are tuition-free.
There are also several charter schools in South Carolina, privately owned and operated schools. Charter schools are tuition-free and open to all students, regardless of their race, religion, or academic ability.
Private schools in South Carolina are very different than public schools. Private schools can be either secular or sectarian. Secular private schools do not require students to adhere to any religion.
On the other hand, Sectarian private schools need all students to adhere to the specific religious beliefs of the school.
Private school tuition rates vary depending on location and school quality. To learn more about private school prices in South Carolina, contact the private school you’re interested in attending for more information.
Featured below is a brief list of some of the top-ranked private schools in the state:
- Bob Jones Academy, Greenville SC
- Union Christian Day School, Union SC
- Charleston Collegiate School, Charleston SC
- Christ Church Episcopal, Greenville SC
Finding The Best City for You in South Carolina!
There are many different cities to choose from in South Carolina when moving there. Some of the most popular choices include Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville. Each city has its own unique set of attractions and amenities that make it a great place to live.
Charleston is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and diverse culture. Columbia is the state capital and is home to various businesses and cultural attractions. Greenville is known for its vibrant arts scene and thriving economy.
Whatever your interests are, there is sure to be a city in South Carolina that is perfect for you!
Charleston, SC
Charleston, South Carolina, has a vibrant history. It was also the location of the first mint in the United States when European colonists settled it in 1680. The city also has several historic homes, including the Drayton House, where William Henry Drayton founded the state of South Carolina in 1767.
There are so many sights and experiences in the city, like visiting Charleston Harbor where you can watch dolphins and ships pass by.
There are different parts of Charleston, and you will find various places to stay that suit your needs.
Cost of Living in Charleston SC
The living expense rate in Charleston, SC, is relatively high. To afford a comfortable lifestyle in the city, you will need to make at least $75,000 annually.
This amount will allow you to live in a safe neighborhood, eat out occasionally, and take vacations. If you are not making this amount of money, you will likely need to live in a more affordable area outside of the city.
Median Income in Charleston SC
The median income of the city of Atlanta is $71,000. This is significantly higher than Houston’s median income of $53,500.
Average House Prices in Charleston SC
In Charleston, SC, the median listing home price was $425,000 in November 2021. Compared to Houston, TX, a similar-sized place will cost about $100k less or around $330,000.
Average Apartment Rentals in Charleston SC
The average rent for apartments in Charleston is about $1680. This is less than Houston, where the same-sized apartment will cost around $1800.
Education in Charleston SC
The school system in Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the best in the state. There are a variety of schools to choose from, including public, private, and charter schools.
The public schools in Charleston are some of the finest in the state. The government funds the schools, and they offer a variety of programs and services to their students.
If you’re looking for a private school, there are some great options in Charleston. The private schools in the city offer a variety of programs and services, and they’re known for their excellent academic programs.
Columbia, SC
Columbia, SC, is a beautiful city located right in the center of South Carolina. It is also the state capital. This city is steeped in history, culture, and beauty. Its major industries are finance, technology industry, education (University of South Carolina), government (state government), medicine (University Hospital System), and manufacturing (heavily armored vehicles).
Columbia has a downtown area with many points of interest for tourists to visit. Columbia is a great place to live because of its proximity to mountains and neighboring cities.
The Riverfront Park is a beautiful place to spend a day outdoors. It features a riverwalk, a playground, and plenty of open space where you can relax or play games.
The South Carolina State Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history or culture. It features exhibits on everything from Native American history to the Civil War.
Suppose you’re looking for something fun and exciting, head over to The Village at Sandhill. This shopping center features dozens of stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and a hotel.
Cost of Living in Columbia SC
A variety of factors can influence the cost of living in a given area, including the types of available goods and services. In Columbia, SC, the cost of living is high for most goods and services but low for others. One factor that affects the cost of living in Columbia, SC, is household size.
Median Income in Columbia SC
The median income of the city of Columbia is $56,725, still higher than Houston’s median income of $53,500.
Average House Prices in Columbia SC
The median listing home price in Columbia, SC, was $210,000 in November 2021.
Average Apartment Rentals in Columbia SC
The average rent for a standard apartment in Columbia is about $1,249, still lower than Houston’s $1,800 average.
Education in Columbia SC
In Columbia, SC, the schools are of excellent quality. They offer a wide range of great programs and courses that will suit the needs of any student. They also have a highly-rated math and science program.
Many great schools in Columbia, SC, can provide your child with a high-quality education. Some of the quality schools in the area include:
- The Summit Parkway School
- Hammond School
- Woodward Academy
- River Bluff High School
- St Andrew’s Middle School
- Irmo High School
Greenville, SC
Greenville, SC, is a place where the people are kind and welcoming to all sorts of cultures. There are many different things to do in Greenville, from taking your dog on a walk through the trails around town to going to a local brewery for some drinks with friends.
It’s also only an hour-and-a-half drive from Asheville, North Carolina, which has lots of hiking and outdoor adventure activities for you to take part in.
Visitors will be surprised at how much Columbia SC has to offer. There is a wide range of museums in the area, including the South Carolina State Museum and the Columbia Children’s Museum, which focuses on children from birth to seven years old. If you enjoy participating in sports activities, there are some friendly parks for hiking nearby.
Cost of Living in Greenville SC
The living costs in Greenville, SC, are relatively low compared to other major metropolitan areas in the United States. For example, groceries and household items can be purchased at various economy stores, including Walmart, Publix, Aldi, and Bi-Lo. Most Greenville, SC, restaurants offer affordable prices, with most meals costing less than $10.
Median Income in Greenville SC
The median income for Greenville SC is $58,000 higher than the average in Houston, TX, of $53,500. Greenville, South Carolina, has seen steady growth over the past decade, with an unemployment rate of almost half the national average of 5%.
Average House Prices in Greenville SC
The median price for a house in Greenville, SC, is $285,000 lower than the average home price in Houston, TX, of $330,000. New construction homes are available throughout the area, with many choices available to fit almost any budget.
Average Apartment Rentals in Greenville, SC
In Greenville, SC, the average cost of rent is $1,268, almost $150 lower than the national average of $1,124. One-bedroom apartment rentals start at $1,030 per month, while two bedrooms will be around $1,550 per month.
Education in Greenville SC
The schools in Greenville, SC, are excellent! They present a wide range of programs and courses that suit your needs and interests. The area also has a wide range of vocational training centers for learning a new trade.
In addition, if you are interested in furthering your education, the local universities include Furman University and Clemson University at Greenville. The best part is finding very affordable tuition at these educational institutions.
If you have school-aged children, you will find that the school system in Greenville, SC is top-notch. The town is very family-friendly and caters to different cultures and lifestyles. There are plenty of opportunities for your children to learn and grow with other like-minded individuals.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is definitely one of the most beautiful places to live for many reasons. One of the primary factors is that it has a great climate. The weather is mild most of the year, and there are only about two months of scorching weather.
The beaches are also beautiful, and there are plenty of things to do in the area. Some of the main attractions in Myrtle Beach are the Grand Dunes Golf Club, Barefoot Landing, Coastal Grand Mall, Carolina Opry Theater, and Broadway at the Beach.
Anyone moving to South Carolina will be able to enjoy many beautiful beaches and over 300 days of sunshine each year. The Myrtle Beach area also has some great neighborhoods to choose from, and the schools in the area are high quality.
Cost of Living in Myrtle Beach SC
The cost of living down in Myrtle Beach, SC, is very affordable compared to other states. The cost of living is almost 20% lower than the national average!
This means that you’ll be able to live comfortably on a budget while enjoying all that Myrtle Beach has to offer. The transportation costs in Myrtle Beach are also very affordable. There are some public transportation options, and you can also find car rentals for as low as $25 per day.
Median Income in Myrtle Beach, SC
The median income for Myrtle Beach SC is $62,000, which is around $7,500 higher than the average in Houston, TX, of $53,500. This means that your disposable money will go a long way towards supporting your lifestyle and hobbies without having to worry about going over budget each month.
Average House Prices in Myrtle Beach, SC
The median price of houses in Greenville, SC, is $279,000, still lower than Houston’s $330,000. You might sense a pattern by now! New construction homes in the area are available, and prices range from $229,000 to $1.5 million, depending on where you live.
Average Apartment Rentals in Myrtle Beach, SC
In Myrtle Beach, SC, apartment rentals average out at $1,415 per month. You can also expect to pay approx. $50 per month for utilities, including water, electricity, and trash service.
If you are moving from Houston, TX, or anywhere else in the country, then you’ll find that Myrtle Beach SC offers plenty of affordable choices for rent.
Education in Myrtle Beach, SC
The schools in Myrtle Beach are some of the best in South Carolina. Students in Myrtle Beach enjoy various extracurricular activities, including athletics, music, and arts.
One of the best things about the schools in Myrtle Beach is that they offer a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These courses can allow students get a head start on their college education.
Some of the best schools in Myrtle Beach include:
- Palmetto Academy of Learning and Success Charter.
- Ocean Bay Middle.
- Forestbrook Elementary.
- Lakewood Elementary.
- Ten Oaks Middle.
- Ocean Bay Elementary.
- St. James Elementary.
- Socastee Middle.
What Are You Waiting For? Give Us A Call Today!
If you’re looking for a BBB accredited reliable and affordable moving company to take you from Houston to South Carolina, look no further than Delta Moving Systems!
We offer a full-service range to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible, and our team of experienced movers will assuredly take care of everything for you.
Plus, we’re always here to help with any questions or concerns you may have along the way. So please don’t wait any longer – call us today and let us help you start your new life in the Palmetto State!
