Relocation Guide: Moving to Greenville, SC

1. Overview: Why Move to Greenville?

Greenville, SC, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast. Known for its vibrant downtown, scenic natural beauty, and thriving economy, Greenville blends Southern charm with modern innovation. Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or lifestyle, this city offers something for everyone.

2. Neighborhoods & Housing

Greenville has a mix of urban, suburban, and rural options:

Downtown Greenville:

• Walkable, vibrant, and full of restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.

• Popular with young professionals and empty nesters.

• Expect condos, lofts, and historic homes.

North Main & Augusta Road:

• Established neighborhoods with historic charm and tree-lined streets.

• Great schools, parks, and family-friendly.

• Higher-end homes and price points.

Greer, Simpsonville, Mauldin, and Travelers Rest:

• Suburban towns around Greenville.

• Offer larger homes, lower cost of living, and strong school districts.

• Ideal for families and commuters.

New Developments:

• Many master-planned communities like Verdae, Hollingsworth Park, and The Cliffs (luxury).

3. Cost of Living

• Housing: More affordable than major metro areas, though prices have risen in recent years.

• Utilities & Taxes: South Carolina has relatively low property taxes. No Social Security tax for retirees.

• Transportation: Minimal public transit; most residents rely on cars.

4. Job Market

Greenville has a diverse and growing economy:

• Major Industries: Advanced manufacturing, automotive (BMW), healthcare, tech, and logistics.

• Top Employers: BMW, Michelin, Prisma Health, GE, Fluor Corporation.

• Startups & Tech: Greenville’s tech scene is growing with new incubators and co-working spaces.

5. Schools & Education

Public Schools:

• Greenville County School District is the largest in SC with many highly rated schools.

Private & Charter Schools:

• Christ Church Episcopal, Shannon Forest, Legacy Charter, and more.

Higher Education:

• Furman University, Bob Jones University, Greenville Tech, Clemson (nearby).

6. Healthcare

• Major Providers: Prisma Health, Bon Secours St. Francis.

• Access to specialists, family care, and regional hospitals.

7. Recreation & Lifestyle

• Downtown: Falls Park on the Reedy, Swamp Rabbit Trail, Peace Center for the Arts.

• Outdoors: Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, boating on Lake Hartwell, camping, golf.

• Food Scene: Farm-to-table restaurants, breweries, rooftop bars.

• Events: Fall for Greenville, Artisphere, euphoria food & wine festival.

8. Transportation

• Car: Most residents commute by car.

• Air Travel: Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP).

• Public Transit: Greenlink buses (limited routes and coverage).

• Cycling/Walking: Expanding infrastructure via the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail.

9. Utilities & Services

• Electric/Gas: Duke Energy, Piedmont Natural Gas.

• Water: Greenville Water.

• Internet: Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, etc.

• Waste & Recycling: City of Greenville or county services, depending on location.

10. Registration & Logistics

• DMV: You must transfer your driver’s license and register your vehicle within 45 days.

• Voter Registration: Register online or at the DMV when changing your license.

• City Services: Visit greenvillesc.gov for trash pickup, permitting, and local updates.

11. Tips for Newcomers

• Visit farmers markets to meet locals.

• Join local Facebook groups or attend Chamber events.

• Take a walking tour of downtown or bike the Swamp Rabbit Trail.