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89.27% of Lexington residents speak only English, while 10.73% speak other languages. The non-English language spoken by the largest group is Asian and Pacific Island languages, which is spoken by 4.08% of the population.The poverty rate among those that worked full-time for the past 12 months was 3.45%. Among those working part-time, it was 12.52%, and for those that did not work, the poverty rate was 15.43%.

Lexington is a city located in Lexington County South Carolina. It is also the county seat of Lexington County. With a 2023 population of 25,571, it is the 21st largest city in South Carolina and the 1527th largest city in the United States.Lexington is currently growing at a rate of 2.78% annually and its population has increased by 8.56% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 23,554 in 2020. Spanning over 12 miles, Lexington has a population density of 2,160 people per square mile.Non citizens include legal permanent residents (green card holders), international students, temporary workers, humanitarian migrants, and illegal immigrants.

85.12% of Lexington residents were born in the United States, with 46.49% having been born in South Carolina. 4.76% of residents are not US citizens. Of those not born in the United States, the largest percentage are from Asia.The metro areas we chose are spread across the Palmetto State and can be excellent places to call home for couples or families. The Lowcountry and Upcountry areas provide many economic opportunities but offer different climates and outdoor activities.

The area’s primary employment industries are healthcare, logistics and manufacturing. The city also has a technology incubator and several business parks.

The university is a national leader in college athletics. Residents can also see many performance art productions on campus and explore the South Carolina Botanical Gardens.

Our ratings take into consideration the city size, crime rate, unemployment rate and cost of living. Community amenities such as outdoor activities, public transit and healthcare access also play a factor.Josh Patoka has been a personal finance writer since 2015. He uses his professional and personal experience to help families save money and pay off debt faster. In addition to Forbes, his bylines have also been featured on Credible, Fox Business, Wallet Hacks, and Well Kept Wallet.

Nicknamed the “Holy City” for its many church steeples dating back to the 1700s, this coastal city offers numerous walking tours and museums. There is also a vibrant nightlife for college students, young professionals and the like.

If you’re wondering where the best places to live in South Carolina are, this guide should make it easier to find your ideal place. We analyzed cities by pulling recent data on key lifestyle factors such as the area’s median home price, personal income per capita, and the unemployment and crime rate.

Admittedly, this is a tourist town with approximately 12 to 20 million visitors per year seeking to enjoy the various restaurants, boardwalk attractions and 60 miles of beachfront access. If the constant activity doesn’t bother you, the area has everything you need along with mild winters.

The city has several employment avenues ranging from advanced manufacturing, aviation, data centers, food processing and medical devices. Shaw Air Force Base is also an anchor of the community.

However, Hilton Head Island, which is just across the bridge, is a popular beach getaway and retirement community. Thankfully, the local area isn’t as commercialized and it’s easy to relax.

South Carolina is an appealing place to live in the southeast as you can stay near the beach in the Lowcountry or enjoy the tranquility of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Upcountry.

Charleston is also one of the best places to live in South Carolina near the beach. Some of its best beaches include Isle of Palms, Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island.You might be using an unsupported or outdated browser. To get the best possible experience please use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge to view this website.Living here lets you enjoy modern amenities like easy access to an international airport or the beach. At the same time, you can enjoy the enticing historical charm of the Carolina Lowcountry.If you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, a bike trail covers the entire town which passes through the iconic Falls Park on the Reedy in the downtown area. There are also several state parks in the area to enjoy the Blue Ridge Mountains and you’re only four hours from the beach.We compared the various South Carolina metropolitan areas using data from several platforms to measure variable criteria for home affordability, healthy employment and population growth.In addition to higher education, other employment sectors include Adidas America and the automotive industry. You’re also less than an hour away from Greenville for additional economic and leisure amenities.

Now let us turn to take a look at how Lexington does for violent crimes specifically, and then how it does for property crimes. This is important because the overall crime rate can be further illuminated by understanding if violent crime or property crimes (or both) are the major contributors to the general rate of crime in Lexington.

Importantly, when you compare Lexington to other communities of similar population, then Lexington crime rate (violent and property crimes combined) is quite a bit higher than average. Regardless of how Lexington does relative to all communities in America of all sizes, when NeighborhoodScout compared it to communities of similar population size, its crime rate per thousand residents stands out as higher than most. The crime rate in Lexington is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 26 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Lexington is 1 in 39. Based on FBI crime data, Lexington is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to South Carolina, Lexington has a crime rate that is higher than 58% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes. Methodology: Our nationwide meta-analysis overcomes the issues inherent in any crime database, including non-reporting and reporting errors. This is possible by associating the 9.4 million reported crimes in the U.S, including over 2 million geocoded point locations…. Read more about Scout’s Crime DataNeighborhoodScout® provides exclusive crime risk analytics for every neighborhood in America with up to 98% predictive accuracy. Crime risk indices are nationally comparable on a 1 – 100 scale, where 100 means safer than 100% of U.S. neighborhoods. Crime risk data are updated annually. Raw crime incidents are sourced from all 18,000+ local law enforcement agencies – municipal, county, transit, park, port, university, tribal and more, assigned to localities, then built into NeighborhoodScout’s proprietary predictive models to provide a comprehensive crime risk profile for every neighborhood and address-vicinity in the U.S. From our analysis, we discovered that violent crime in Lexington occurs at a rate higher than in most communities of all population sizes in America. The chance that a person will become a victim of a violent crime in Lexington; such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape or murder; is 1 in 378. This equates to a rate of 3 per one thousand inhabitants.While both Carolinas have various beaches, North Carolina is better known for its stunning mountain ranges and forest scapes. With Highlands, Asheville, Bryson City, Boone, and Blowing Rock all right within the state, North Carolina is great for people who prefer rock climbing over sunbathing. South Carolina, on the other hand, is home to Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, and many other beloved beach-vacation destinations.

In terms of crime, both South Carolina and North Carolina sit above the national average. However, this is primarily due to excessive property crime, which includes theft and burglary. Violent crimes, on the other hand, remain low in both states.North Carolina and South Carolina are well-matched in terms of affordability. While North Carolina’s population density is nearly double that of its southern neighbor, the median annual household income for both states sits roughly around $60k. This is slightly below the national average and makes both states highly affordable. However, with home prices middling close to $181k, South Carolina’s housing market is marginally cheaper than North Carolina’s. Both South and North Carolina have their distinct advantages when it comes to the overall quality of life. South Carolina is perfect for those who are looking to retire or who want to start a family away from the city. Its stunning beaches, great tax exemptions, and generally go-with-the-flow nature make it the ideal state to find a little peace of mind. However, North Carolina is generally safer and has better school systems, employment opportunities, and cityscapes. These advantages make this state the better option for business professionals and anyone who prefers security and stability over a leisurely lifestyle. And, with beautiful mountain views, residents of North Carolina are equipped with everything they need to lead a quality, well-fulfilled life. These states have fabulous education systems! However, because North Carolina has nearly double South Carolina’s population density, it tends to have a larger abundance of both schools and students. This past year, the University of North Carolina alone had 244,492 students enrolled, easily surpassing the University of South Carolina. Additionally, North Carolina’s high school graduation rate is slightly higher than South Carolina’s, making it the better choice for education.Classic southern charm is abundant in both of these south-bound states. However, South Carolina and North Carolina have very different atmospheres. With its easy-going nature and small-town attitude, South Carolina is better suited for those who prefer a slow-paced lifestyle. Its communities offer a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of North Carolina, whose large population often makes living a bit more upbeat. While this is great for the young professionals who flock to the state for its business opportunities, South Carolina is ultimately the better option for a slow-and-sweet lifestyle.

South Carolina has some of the most stunning cities in the southeast. Areas like Charleston, Greenville, and Clemson are high-traffic tourist destinations with abundant historic architecture, beautiful scenery, and exquisite food. However, there simply aren’t enough of these incredible cities to go around. North Carolina is much geographically larger than South Carolina, giving the northern state a major advantage for city living. Its urban footprint includes staples like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Greensboro – all of which are larger and more densely populated than their southern neighbors.

Neither North Carolina nor South Carolina charges social security, inheritance, or estate taxes. Additionally, residents in both states will appreciate property taxes well below the national average. However, this is where the similarities end. While South Carolina’s income tax is higher than North Carolina’s, the state is more tax-friendly to retirees and pension holders. Additionally, South Carolina allows better terms for homestead exemptions than its northern neighbor, making it the better option for tax purposes.

Both of the Carolinas boast weather that is warm, mild, and comfortable. However, because South Carolina sits closer to the equator, summers tend to be hotter, and winters more tolerable. North Carolina’s higher elevation makes it a little colder, windier, and more prone to snowy winters.Let’s face it we aren’t Silicon Valley or the Upper East Side of Manhattan. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t money in South Carolina. And with the lower cost of living here than in other areas, it can be easier to gain and maintain wealth. Especially in areas of the Lowcountry near the Charleston beaches. There are some gorgeous homes there with high price tags. And the rich, well they tend to hang out with other wealthy individuals. The Oxford Dictionary defines wealth as “an abundance of valuable possessions or money”. I typically think of wealth as the type of money that spans generations. Regardless the wealthiest towns in South Carolina are those with the highest median household income and home values. Our friends over at Suburbs101.com compiled a list of the 9 Wealthiest Towns in South Carolina. Some of these I’d classify more as suburbs but you still get the point.

Below you will find a list of the wealthiest towns and suburbs as reported by Suburbs101.com. The information presented in this article is based on data from the US Census American Community Survey and the rankings are based on median household income. You can read their full study here.

If you’re looking for a charming country town, Chester is an excellent option. Located an hour south of Charlotte, North Carolina, Chester has a population of over 5,000 residents and offers easy access to a major airport, sports teams, and arts and culture. The median housing cost for Chester is $81,700, making it an affordable option compared to other nearby housing markets.Finding an affordable home in South Carolina is possible with the help of an experienced realtor. UpNest, owned by Realtor.com, offers a team of professionals who can assist in your search for the perfect home. Located 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is a coastal town with a population of nearly 10,000 across 7.5 square miles. This lesser-known area offers beachcombing, fishing, and is a popular retirement destination. The median home cost of $280,800 is higher than most in South Carolina but still lower than the national average of $291,700. Whether you want to live in a particular region or are still exploring, there are several affordable towns and cities in this state. Here are the seven best options for people who want to live in South Carolina while Whether you are drawn to the mountains, the coast, or the countryside, South Carolina has several affordable towns and cities that will suit your needs. Here are seven of the best options for people looking to live in the state while keeping their budget in check.

Cheraw, located in northern South Carolina, is a short drive from Cheraw State Park and Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge. This town is built along the Pee Dee River, perfect for nature enthusiasts who love hiking, boating, or spending time outdoors. Dubbed “The Prettiest Town in Dixie,” Cheraw has a population of 5,000 across 6 square miles. One can find historic homes within budget, with a median home cost of $130,400. There are multiple schools available, making it a family-friendly town.For those who don’t want to reside in a college town, Gaffney might be a suitable option as it’s located 30 minutes from Spartanburg. It’s known for being one of the most economical places to live in South Carolina with a median home price of $77,100, which is less than both the state average of $163,200 and Spartanburg’s median home cost of $163,200. Gaffney is picturesque, attracting visitors with its local arts festivals and community events.

The average cost of living in South Carolina is $1,864 per month for an individual, with an average monthly salary of $3,713, which is considered enough to cover most expenses. South Carolina is the 32nd most expensive state to live in, making it a more affordable coastal option compared to California, Florida, or North Carolina. However, some cities like Charleston and Columbia, the capital, are more expensive than others. Consider nearby towns and suburbs to find affordable housing. South Carolina is predominantly rural, with most commutes from nearby towns taking place on highways and country roads.South Carolina is considered an affordable state to live in for several reasons, including a stable population, lack of major cities driving up costs, and being among the top 10 states with the lowest taxes in the nation. Property, gas, and income taxes are all below the national average, keeping the overall cost of living low while increasing residents’ take-home pay.

A suburb of Greenville, Parker is a great place for those who want to be close to the Georgia and North Carolina borders and enjoy weekend trips into the mountains. Greenville is the sixth-largest city in the state and is home to companies like Michelin and Duke Energy, providing residents with plenty of job opportunities. The median sale price for a home in Greenville in November 2022 was $303,240, but in Parker, it was only $101,300, making it an affordable option for those looking for a suburban lifestyle.

Yes, it is recommended to have flood insurance in South Carolina, as the state is prone to coastal and river flooding, and floods are not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. It is important to consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your property and assets from potential damage.A small town located 30 minutes from Myrtle Beach, Conway is the perfect option for those who want to live near the coast but away from the tourists and crowds. Compared to the median home price in Myrtle Beach ($241,877), Conway is a more affordable option, with a median home price of $209,800. The town is also home to Coastal Carolina University and offers plenty of outdoor activities and connections to nature.

The South Carolina real estate market has seen a surge in prices over the past few years, with the median home price in June 2022 reaching $291,591, a 26.7% increase from the previous year. This rise in prices has made it challenging for many residents to find affordable housing in the state. However, there are still plenty of options available for those looking to live in South Carolina while keeping their budget in check.

For those who enjoy the coastal lifestyle, the eastern part of the state is home to popular tourist destinations like Charleston and Myrtle Beach, offering visitors the chance to soak up the sun and experience the unique culture of the region. Meanwhile, the northern part of the state offers access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a great option for those who need to commute to Charlotte. Golf enthusiasts may want to consider the western part of the state, close to Augusta, Georgia and the Atlanta airport.

This charming town is tucked away in a natural harbor on an island of the same name and was the site of a naval battle during the Civil War. Another claim to fame: Forrest Gump filmed its hurricane scene at one of the docks. Those wanting to live here must dig deep into their pockets; it is the most expensive place in the state to live.Historical Mount Pleasant, a suburb of Charleston, doubled in population two decades ago to become the fourth largest municipality in South Carolina. Besides its low crime rate, mild climate and great public school system, residents here experience an idyllic lifestyle. This town has an upscale flair, with the median home price north of $400,000.

With its historical downtown paired with modern amenities, Fort Mill also makes the list of the 10 best cities to raise a family in South Carolina. This quiet suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, is home to a number of major employers like Black and Decker and Daimler Trucks North America, and its median home price hovers around $290,000. Pack your bags because Fort Mill is one of the fastest growing communities in the state and its schools perform well above the national average. South Carolina may be on the smaller size compared to some of the larger states out west. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in gracious hospitality, mesmerizing history and genuine charm. In 2019, Charleston captured Southern Living’s prestigious title of the South’s Best City for the third straight year. Even those who don’t live in South Carolina find it captivating; the state rings up $22 billion annually in tourism. So it’s not surprising that the state has plenty to offer to new residents, including a number of communities that rank well when it comes to safety. Let’s take a look the top 10 safest cities in the Palmetto State. Less than 10 miles from Greenville, Mauldin offers two well-kept neighborhoods: Sunset Heights and the Grove. Not only is Mauldin one of the state’s safest cities, but it is also one of the most affordable with a median home priced of around $150,000. Residents raising school-age children will be impressed to know that the high school graduation rates are at 90 percent, and the student to teacher ratio is 21:1.Tega Cay, whose name means “beautiful peninsula” in Polynesian, is a waterfront community on Lake Wylie at the border with North Carolina. Many who work in Charlotte, North Carolina, find this gem to the south to be a quiet haven — and only a 20-mile commute. While Tega Cay is becoming more of a tourist destination, many people have put down roots in this affluent town. The median home price is upwards of $345,000 and is appreciating at a hearty clip of 13 percent.

Aiken ranks No. 2 on the top 10 places in South Carolina to raise a family. That may be because it is an authentic equestrian community that’s drenched in history. In the mid-1800s, the sleepy little town was founded around a stop of a new railroad from Charleston to the Savannah River.The quaint town of Hanahan rests about 20 miles northwest of Charleston. Hanahan’s system of safe recreation and park areas enhance the quality of life of its residents. If you want to step back in time, the historic house from the 18th century indigo plantation Otranto is a good place to start.

Minutes away from Hilton Head Island, Bluffton is a true award winner. The town ranks among the top 10 places to raise a family in South Carolina, Huffington Post rated it No. 1 for its enchanting non-beach getaway destinations. This Lowcountry community is known for its scenic views of the May River. Residents spend most of their time outdoors because the weather is nearly perfect year-round. When you’re trying to decide where to settle down, it’s about taking into account your priorities and comparing them to what’s available in a particular area. For instance, are good schools and access to nature important to you? What about employment opportunities or low taxes? Aside from being a hub for various businesses, Tampa is widely recognized for its gorgeous waterfront area. The precinct boasts stunning parks, informative museums, and delicious eateries – perfect for an afternoon stroll or evening outing.

In addition to being home to Universal Studios and Walt Disney World, Orlando is a major center for trade and tourism. The economy of Orlando is also influenced by science, technology, and aviation.

Keep in mind that the cost of living can vary widely within a state, especially one as large as Florida. The cost of living in Key West will be more than Ocala, Florida.

In terms of climate, both states usually have a humid, subtropical climate with moderate winters and summers. Their best seasons to be outdoors are spring and autumn.What separates South Carolina from Florida is the rolling Piedmont and Upstate region. The foothills of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains bring in cooler temperatures and topography perfect for whitewater rafting, bouldering, hiking, and backpacking trails.Temperatures in South Carolina can get pretty hot, with average highs in July reaching 92F. However, the Upstate region is typically milder due to the Blue Ridge Mountains and elevation. The state also sees a fair amount of rain, ranging from 40 to 80 inches annually.

From Miami’s arts and culture to Orlando’s tourism and nightlife, to Tampa’s business-friendly climate, there is a city in Florida that is ideal for everyone.South Carolina spent $8,168 per student in 2019. It employed 53,689 teachers for 766,819 enrolled students. Around 43% met or surpassed reading standards, while 37% met or exceeded math standards. It had an 83% graduation rate in 2021.You may visit Disney World, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, or Universal Studios in Florida. The Everglades and many lovely beaches are available to nature enthusiasts. The state also has the Kennedy Space Center, where you can learn about space exploration, tour the facilities, and view rocket launches.Residents have multiple outdoor activities available in both states. The shared Atlantic coastline gives them some commonalities, but some differences exist.Your EZ Home Search Moving Guide to Jupiter, FL Did you know that despite its name, Jupiter, FL has no affiliation with the giant gas planet in our …Read More

Both states do have NASCAR races. Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, hosts the Daytona 500, while Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina, hosts the Bojangles’ Southern 500.South Carolina’s cities are smaller and less dense than Florida’s. Charleston is the state’s largest city, with a population of about 150,000 people in its urban center. It’s a popular tourist destination with its antique buildings and cobblestone streets. Charleston is also home to numerous colleges and universities, as well as Fort Sumter National Monument and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

Both states offer an excellent quality of life, so it really boils down to personal preference. Florida is the place for you if you’re looking for year-round warm weather. If you prefer a slower pace and charming Southern hospitality, South Carolina may be a better fit. No matter which state you choose, you’re sure to enjoy all that it has to offer! And if you’re still not sure, why not compare to Georgia?Regarding the average effective property tax rate, South Carolina beats Florida with 0.57%. The county sets the millage rate; municipalities may also charge a property tax. Look at the tax rates for the specific county and town you want to live in before making any decisions.

Florida has about 4x the number of residents than South Carolina, but both are experiencing robust population growth. Florida ranked no. 6 with a 21% growth rate, while South Carolina ranked no. 10 with a 17% growth rate.Homeowners can take advantage of a few different exemptions when it comes to their primary residences. The first $25,000 exemption applies to all taxes; another $50,000 applies solely to non-school-related taxes. But there are also more specific exemptions for widowers, senior citizens, disabled persons, and veterans.

The job market in Florida is strong. The unemployment rate in August 2022 was 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Florida’s major industries are healthcare, hospitality, construction, and professional services. Walt Disney World Resort, Publix Super Markets, Miami-Dade County Public Schools, The Home Depot, Broward County Schools, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (Healthcare) are some of Florida’s top employers.

When it comes to professional sports, it’s no contest as South Carolina doesn’t have any. In contrast, Florida has a total of nine professional teams playing in the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.