South Carolina may evoke visions of beachside cities like Charleston and Myrtle Beach, but there’s more to the state’s nature. The Blue Ridge Mountains and national forests grace the northern portion of the state, offering some of the state’s most underrated spots. So if you’ve been looking for a hidden gem, look no further than South Carolina’s mountain towns.
At Rent., we’ve gathered a list of the best mountain towns in South Carolina to live in. Whether you’re drawn by their small-town charm or simply want to live near the mountains, South Carolina has a town for you. Let’s check out the list.
1. Anderson
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,146
Population: 27,220
Houses for rent in Anderson, SC
Apartments for rent in Anderson, SC
Homes for sale in Anderson, SC
Anderson is located in the Piedmont Plateau, south of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city offers a serene living environment halfway between the bustling cities of Atlanta and Charlotte. This town is great for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous parks and trails that cater to hikers, bikers, and nature lovers, like Rocky River Nature Park and Lake Hartwell.
The nearby mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for year-round activities, including hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Anderson’s community of about 27,220 residents enjoys a mix of local eateries, quaint shops, and cultural attractions like the Anderson County Museum, making it a charming place to call home.
2. Greenville
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,732
Population: 65,370
Houses for rent in Greenville, SC
Apartments for rent in Greenville, SC
Homes for sale in Greenville, SC
Greenville is a gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a vibrant city that strikes a perfect balance between urban living and mountain town charm. The surrounding mountains, like Paris Mountain State Park, provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and scenic drives. Home to Falls Park on the Reedy, there are plenty of outdoor attractions in and around the city.
With a population of 65,370, it’s a bustling hub that offers a rich array of cultural experiences, from live music at the Peace Center Concert Hall and art galleries to festivals and farmers’ markets. Greenville’s downtown is renowned for its Main Street, where residents and visitors alike can enjoy fine dining, shopping, and entertainment. You can also explore the charming Overbrook Historic District with plenty of historic homes.
3. Pickens
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,038
Population: 2,900
Houses for rent in Pickens, SC
Apartments for rent in Pickens, SC
Located in the shadow of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Pickens is a small town with a big heart. Its close-knit community of 2,900 residents enjoys the tranquility of mountain living with the convenience of being just a short drive from Greenville. Pickens is a paradise for those who love the outdoors, offering easy access to trails, parks, and natural attractions.
For example, you can hike through Table Rock State Park, Glassy Mountain Heritage Preserve, and the Nine Times Preserve, bike at Town Creek Bike Park, explore the Hagood Mill Historic Site, The town’s historic downtown area, with its charming shops, museums like Pickens County Museum of Art & History, and local eateries, reflects the rich heritage and friendly spirit of this South Carolina mountain town.
4. Seneca
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,544
Population: 9,050
Apartments for rent in Seneca, SC
Seneca is located on the shores of Lake Keowee, one of the best lakes to live on in South Carolina, near the Blue Ridge Mountains. This town offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With a population of 9,050, it provides a small-town atmosphere with the benefits of mountain living.
Seneca’s residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and fishing, due to its proximity to several lakes and parks. The town’s downtown area has a collection of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, offering a slice of Southern charm and hospitality. Make sure to check out museums like the Lunney Museum and Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum or visit the Seneca Historic District where you’ll find the Historic Ballenger House.
5. Spartanburg
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,369
Population: 37,180
Houses for rent in Spartanburg, SC
Apartments for rent in Spartanburg, SC
Homes for rent in Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg is located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a city that blends cultural richness with natural beauty. Home to 37,180 people, Spartanburg is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic sites, and beautiful parks. For example, you can explore places like Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, the Edwin M. Griffin Nature Preserve, and the Hampton Heights Historic District.
Just outside of town, you’ll find Glendale Shoals Preserve & Waterfalls, a 13-acre preserve with falls, a historic mill, and a bridge dating back to 1928. Spartanburg is also close to Croft State Park, which has lakes, hiking trails, and horseback riding areas.
6. Travelers Rest
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,768
Population: 7,270
Houses for rent in Travelers Rest, SC
Apartments for rent in Travelers Rest, SC
Homes for sale in Travelers Rest, SC
Travelers Rest, aptly named for its welcoming atmosphere, is a great South Carolina mountain town for those seeking the beauty and adventure of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This town, with a population of 7,270, is known for its friendly community, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreational activities.
Travelers Rest is a favorite among cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers, thanks to its proximity to Paris Mountain State Park where you’ll find miles of biking and hiking trails, kayaking areas, and campsites. The city also has a vibrant downtown area, which features local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
7. Walhalla
Mountain range: Blue Ridge Mountains
Average rent price: $1,127
Population: 4,630
Houses for rent in Walhalla, SC
Apartments for rent in Walhalla, SC
Homes for sale in Walhalla, SC
Walhalla is a quaint town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures. With a population of 4,630, it offers a close-knit community feel with the benefits of mountain living. Residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring the nearby trails like Yellow Branch Falls Trail and Chauga Narrows, waterfalls like Yellow Branch Falls and Riley Moore Falls, and parks like Oconee State Park.
Walhalla’s historic downtown provides a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage, with a variety of shops and restaurants that cater to all tastes. Make sure to explore places like the Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina, the Oconee History Museum, and the Walhalla Performing Arts Center. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a charming mountain town in South Carolina.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the mountain towns in South Carolina. Towns must have average rental data to be included on the list. Average rental data from Rent.com during September 2024. Population data is sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
