Retiring in Columbia

A Comprehensive Guide to Retiring in Columbia, SC

Columbia, South Carolina is the capital and central metropolis in the Palmetto State. Its eclectic community includes college students, working professionals and retirees alike. Home prices in Columbia are lower than the state average, so it’s easy to find a wonderful place to live without breaking the bank.

Columbia’s ideal location, agreeable weather and plethora of attractions are a major draw for those looking to settle here for retirement. If you’re considering Columbia as your retirement destination, there’s a lot you’ll want to know. Use this comprehensive guide to get you started!

Tax Benefits

One of the many reasons Columbia is a popular retirement destination is the tax friendliness. In fact, South Carolina is one of the most tax-friendly states in the entire country. Here are a few reasons why:

Zero Social Security Tax

South Carolina is one of the many states that imposes no tax on social security benefits. This is important because social security is relied on by millions of older Americans. No social security tax means more disposable income for retirees in Columbia.

Deduct Up to $15,000 from Income Taxes

A $15,000 income tax deduction is available to South Carolina residents over the age of 65. It is applicable to all forms of retirement income, including that from 401(k) plans, IRAs and pension plans. This tax deduction is a great way for Columbia residents to save money during retirement.

Low Property Taxes

South Carolina has one of the lowest effective property tax rates in the country, at just 0.57%. In addition to paying this low rate, South Carolina seniors who’ve lived in the state over a year can benefit from a “homestead exemption,” which exempts them from property taxes on the first $50,000 of their home’s value.

For those looking to retire in Columbia, a retirement community is an excellent option where residents pay zero property tax altogether. The top-rated retirement community in the area is Wildewood Downs.

The information above should function as a starting point for your tax research but not be substituted for direct advice from a tax professional.

Weather

Great weather is one of the many reasons people enjoy retiring in Columbia. On average, temperatures range from 36 to 58°F in January (the coldest month) and from 72 to 95°F in July (the warmest month). Snowfall is rare in this region, with an average of just 1.5 inches of snow per year, compared to a US average of 28 inches per year. What winters may lack snow is made up for in rainfall. There are 106.7 rainfall days per year and on average, the city receives 45.5 inches of rainfall per year, which is slightly higher than the 2019 US average of 34.7 inches.

Health and Wellness

When relocating to a new area, familiarizing yourself with local healthcare options is an important task. One of the most appealing features of Lexington is the top-rated healthcare services available to all residents.

The area’s premier healthcare systems are Prisma Health Alliance and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Their convenient locations and comprehensive operating hours offer a peace of mind for Midland area residents.

Prisma Health Alliance

Prisma Health is inspired to help people live their healthiest lives. As the most comprehensive integrated healthcare system in South Carolina, they’re on a journey to transform the healthcare experience for patients and their families. Prisma Health is a product of the merger of two of the largest healthcare systems in the area – Greenville Health System and Palmetto Health. These two groups merged together to bring high quality care with lower costs to patients.

Prisma Health Richland Hospital

Prisma Health Richland is a 641-bed regional community academic medical center and hospital with more than 125 years of service to Columbia. This location provides a wide range of primary and specialty healthcare services. Their areas of excellence include behavioral care, cancer, heart, obstetrics, orthopedics, neonatology, stroke and trauma.

Prisma Health Heart Hospital

Prisma Health Heart Hospital is South Carolina’s first comprehensive, freestanding hospital dedicated solely to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Open to all doctors and patients, our continuum of care begins with disease prevention and management and extends to emergency services and procedures, with diagnosis, surgery and rehabilitation, all performed in beautiful surroundings of our hospital.

Prisma Health Baptist Hospital

Established in Columbia, South Carolina, more than a century ago, Baptist Hospital today is a 352-bed medical center with 2,300 team members and a medical staff of 740 doctors. In 2021, Prisma Health Baptist Hospital achieved Magnet recognition, reflecting a level of nursing professionalism that translates to better satisfaction for both patients and staff, and better care for patients.

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)

MUSC is South Carolina’s only comprehensive academic health science center. Their purpose is to preserve and optimize human life in South Carolina through their vision to lead health innovation for the lives they touch. Founded in 1824 in Charleston, MUSC is the oldest medical school in the South, as well as the state’s only integrated, academic health sciences center with a unique charge to serve the state through education, research and patient care.

MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Northeast

(formerly Providence Health Northeast on Corporate Boulevard in Columbia) – MUSC Health Northeast is a bright and spacious full-service hospital in the Northeast suburbs of Columbia. This community hospital campus is large enough to provide nationally-recognized care, yet small enough to feel its connected, faith-based compassion. Their services include an outpatient facility, emergency room, and orthopedic surgery program.

MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown

(formerly Providence Health on Forest Drive in Columbia) – MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown has been highly ranked for patient experience. Their services include an emergency department, heart & vascular health center, cardiac rehabilitation, imaging, and palliative care.

Fitness Centers

Keeping active is one of the best ways to maintain health and wellness. While it’s easy to find a nearby gym through a quick Google search, there’s no guarantee that the first one you find will meet your needs. To aid in your search, we recommend using this tool to find age-friendly fitness locations in Columbia.

Senior Living Communities

Retirement communities are an excellent choice for seniors in Columbia. Eliminate the burdens of home maintenance while indulging in culinary programs, unique social events, activities, daily wellness programs and access to industry-best care services. The top-rated community in this area is Wildewood Downs, a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). It is a 37-acre gated community including three ponds and beautiful, lush landscaping. Members enjoy restaurant-style dining, endless social activities, an award-winning wellness program and a range of luxury accommodations. Living in a CCRC means that you can settle in and never worry about relocating should your needs change. Wildewood Downs offers a full continuum of services on-site including Active Adult Living, Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, Respite Care, and Rehabilitation.

Food and Drink

A melting pot of unique fare and libations, Columbia’s food and drink offers a wide range of cuisine options for residents. From authentic southern BBQ and classic Italian to authentic chinese and Sunday brunch, there’s a lot to choose from. Here are the top-rated restaurants and drinks in Columbia:

Top Restaurants in Columbia

DiPrato’s

342 Pickens St, Columbia, SC 29205

DiPrato’s graces a quiet neighborhood barely off the beaten path. It’s a Southern breeze laden with Italian accents in a NY-Style delicatessen. Make your way downtown and enjoy one of their Signature Sandwiches!

Thirsty Fellow Pizzeria and Pub

621 Gadsden St., Columbia, SC, 29201

Founded by Willie Durkin, Thirsty Fellow Pizzeria and Pub serves some of the most unique stone-fired pizzas in Columbia in addition to their pub fare. It’s a great spot to bring the family, for a date night, or to catch sports action with your friends.

Bourbon

1214 Main St, Columbia, SC, 29201

Bourbon is a whiskey bar and Cajun-Creole restaurant located just steps from the South Carolina State Capitol building. They specialize in bourbon, whiskey, craft cocktails and the flavors of the Louisiana Bayou. From Etouffee to Shrimp and Grits, Po’ Boy Sandwiches, and Black-Eyed Pea Hummus, there’s something for every palate.

Mr. Friendly’s New Southern

2001 Greene St. Ste A, Columbia, SC 29205

Founded in the early ‘80s as a sandwich and cookie shop, Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cuisine has evolved into much more since its inception. Since 1995, we have been serving New Southern Cuisine in a sophisticated, yet casual environment using only the freshest ingredients and simple preparations.

Alodia’s Cucina Italiana

2736 N Lake Dr (Murray Landing Shopping Center), Columbia, SC, 29212

Alodia’s is a restaurant born from the love of an Italian family. Owned by Adam Huneau and his wife Betsy, this restaurant is named after Adam’s Great-Grandmother. Alodia’s fare and ambiance resounds with the smells and tastes of Old Italy. Fresh sauces and homemade pastas are the foundation of the menu that continues to bring generations together.

Top Drinks in Columbia

Motor Supply Company

920 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Opened in 1989, Motor Supply is a local favorite house in a renovated engine supply building from the 1800s. It’s currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places and in its location in the historic neighborhood of Congaree Vista. They follow a farm-to-table menu which changes daily with seasonally changing cocktails. They use a variety of barrel-aged liquors, infused liqueurs, and locally sourced ingredients to keep their cocktail list fresh and interesting!

The Whig

1200 Main Street – Basement Level, Columbia, SC 29201

Described as the ‘Best Dive Bar in North America’, The Whig has all the elements that a dive bar enthusiast would want. They are home to a phenomenal beer list with draft beers from regional breweries, classic cocktails and new mixtures. Of course, it’s not without its quirkiness, the dark underbelly of The Whig is home to a plethora of taxidermied animals hanging out on the walls. Needless to say, it’s one of the more relaxed hangouts for residents and visitors alike.

Bourbon

1214 Main St, Columbia, SC, 29201

Bourbon is a whiskey bar and Cajun-Creole restaurant located just steps from the South Carolina State Capitol building. They specialize in bourbon, whiskey, craft cocktails and the flavors of the Louisiana Bayou. They currently have the largest whiskey list in South Carolina (over 450 varieties), with everything from Angels Envy to Pappy Van Winkle. Additionally, they have a collection of worldwide whiskey from countries including Ireand, Scotland, India, and Japan.

Breweries

As breweries continue to boom, local residents have taken a particular liking to the array available in the area. They are a great place for quick drinks, outdoor hangouts, and time with friends. Some of the top breweries in Columbia are:

River Rat Brewery

1231 Shop Road, Columbia, SC 29201

As one of the original breweries of Columbia, River Rate offers indoor, outdoor, and rooftop spaces to hang with friends, enjoy trivia or a live band and grab a pint! Make sure to grab one of their favorite ‘core beers’ the Broad River Red Ale (5.3% ABV) or Astronaut Sauce New England Style IPA (5.4% ABV)

Swamp Cabbage Brewing

921 Brookwood Drive, Columbia, SC 29201

Located near Williams-Brice Stadium at the University of South Carolina, Swamp Cabbage has a dog-friendly outdoor patio that hosts weekly trivia and larger events! Make sure to try their Sabal Palm Blonde, an American Blonde Ale (4.5% ABV)

Shopping

For those who enjoy shopping, Columbia has a variety of shopping destinations. Whether you prefer strolling through big shopping malls, finding a killer deal or browsing local boutiques, you’re sure to find somewhere that meets your retail needs. Here’s the breakdown of the top places to shop in Columbia:

Swamp Cabbage Brewing

100 Columbiana Cir, Columbia, SC 29212

Built in 1990, Columbiana Centre is a Brookfield Property and premier shopping destination in the area with over 90 shops. It is ideally situated to serve the affluent and rapidly growing north and northwest suburbs of Columbia. This shopping center is consistently the first choice for retailers entering the South Carolina midlands region, with national brands including Dave & Buster’s, Sephora, Forever, 21, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Coach and Michael Kors. The department store lineup includes Belk, Dillard’s and JCPenney. While Dave and Busters is an entertainment, sports, and gaming hub!

Boutique Shopping Corridor

Nestled between three of Columbia’s oldest residential neighborhoods, Devine Street hosts a unique blend of boutiques, eclectic dining establishments and traditional businesses. Here you can enjoy fashion, food and community – all in one charming destination. Free street parking, wide sidewalks and Columbia’s largest assortment of locally-owned retail stores and restaurants make this region of Columbia a shopper’s paradise.

Five Points

Considered to be Columbia’s “original village neighborhood,” Five Points has a charm and quirkiness unlike other areas of the city. It is located within walking distance of the University of South Carolina. In this area you can browse boutiques, flip through vinyl, and find your new favorite craft beer. After visiting, you’ll know why this area has been a hangout for more than 100 years.

The Vista

The Vista sits on the banks of the Congaree River. It has long been home to art galleries, upscale restaurants, and antiques stores. Today you’ll find national retailers alongside local shops original to the district offering art, jewelry, antiques and home furnishings. Also located in the area is the South Carolina State Museum as well as the Columbia SC Visitors Center, with Columbia SC swag and local finds.

Trenholm Plaza

4840 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC 29206

Anchored by Public and The Fresh Market, Trenholm Plaza combines an impressive mixture of traditional retailers, upscale specialty stores and leisure-time destinations. Conveniently located in Forest Acres, this open-air shopping center is close to downtown Columbia as well as Interstate 77. Retailers including the first and only Anthropologie and Lululemon stores in Columbia as well as Ivy & Leo, J. Crew, Kendra Scott, Chico’s, Jos A. Bank, Urban Nirvana, fab’rik, and more!

Village at Sandhill

481 Town Center Place, Columbia, SC 29229

This popular spot is one level strip mall located in Columbia, South Carolina. Retailers include Belk, Academy Sports, Bath & Body Works, JCPenney, Loft, Lane Bryant, Palmetto Moon, Yankee Candle, and more!

Sports

While there aren’t any Major League sports teams in the area, residents of Columbia are rooting for Carolina based teams like the Carolina Panthers (NFL), Charlotte Hornets (NBA), and Carolina Hurricanes (NHL). While there are no Major League teams, residents of the area enjoy attending Minor League games by the Columbia Fireflies, a MiLB Low-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals (MLB).

Columbia Fireflies (MiLB)

The Columbia Fireflies are the MiLB Low-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals (MLB). The team was previously known as the Savannah Sand Gnats (1995–2015); they relocated from Savannah, Georgia, after the 2015 season. They are the only baseball team in Columbia, and the first since the Capital City Bombers moved to Greenville, South Carolina, after the 2004 season. After receiving over 2,300 submissions in a public contest to name the team, it chose to call itself the “Columbia Fireflies”. Portions of the team’s uniforms glow in the dark as a tribute to the team’s name.

Collegiate Sports

While there are no professional sports teams in the area, there is deep-rooted appreciation for college sports among Columbia residents. Those who live in the area are loyal fans for Carolina-based teams including the local team, the University of South Carolina Gamecocks.

University of South Carolina Gamecocks

Based in Columbia, South Carolina, the University of South Carolina (USC) Gamecocks are the fan-favorite in the area. All of the University’s varsity teams compete at the Division I level of the NCAA, and all but men’s soccer and women’s beach volleyball compete in the Southeastern Conference. Men’s soccer competes in Conference USA and women’s beach volleyball competes in the Coastal Collegiate Sports Association because the SEC does not sponsor those sports. They currently have 19 men’s and women’s varsity sports including baseball, basketball, equestrian, football, golf, soccer, tennis, beach volleyball, lacrosse, swimming & diving, softball, and more.

University of South Carolina Football

USC competes in the Football Bowl Subdivision of the NCAA and the Eastern Division of the Southeastern Conference. Their games are currently played at Williams-Brice Stadium with a capacity of over 80,000 attendees. Gamecock fans are passionate about football and their South Carolina rivalry with Clemson University. Their rivalry with Clemson is the largest annual sporting event by ticket sales in the state of South Carolina. This annual game has been designated as “The Palmetto Bowl”.

Lexington County Blowfish

The Lexington County Blowfish are a summer collegiate baseball team in the Coastal Plain League. The team plays its home games at the Lexington County Baseball Stadium. The Blowfish first started competing in the CPL during the 2006 season and finished with a twenty-two win and thirty loss record in their first season. During their first year in existence, the Blowfish led the Coastal Plain League in attendance and was voted the Coastal Plain League Organization of the Year. The Blowfish replaced the Capital City Bombers when professional baseball left Columbia after the 2004 season. The Blowfish moved from Columbia to Lexington County in 2014. The team is named after popular South Carolina band Hootie and the Blowfish.

Parks & Recreation

Parks & Recreation

Outdoor activities in Columbia are abundant with a variety of parks, recreation areas, and state parks. While each of them have different amenities, they’re all perfect for some fresh air and outdoor time with friends and family. Here are the top parks and recreation spots in Columbia:

  • Congaree National Park – 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061 Congaree is one of the 63 National Parks in the United States and only one in South Carolina. This park received its official designation in 2003 as the culmination of a grassroots campaign that began in 1969. Preserving 26,276 acres (41.1 sq mi; 106.3 km2), this National Park is 18 miles southeast of Columbia. The park preserves the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the United States. Lush trees growing in its floodplain forest are some of the tallest in the eastern United States, forming one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies remaining in the world. In 2020, it was one of the #13 in the least visited National Parks, welcoming 119,306 visitors. While it may not be popular, it does mean that you’ll enjoy low crowds and uncrowded activities throughout the year.
  • Sesquicentennial State Park – 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223 Sesquicentennial State Park, affectionately known to locals as “Sesqui” is a spacious, green getaway in the heart of the Sandhills region. Once you enter this park, you’ll become immersed in 1,400 acres and have the opportunity for camping, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and a 6-mile bicycle loop for day-use recreation.
  • Cayce / West Columbia Riverwalk The Cayce / West Columbia Riverwalk opens the Congaree River for walking, jogging, bicycling, or just gazing at the natural beauty. Its path accommodates all levels of physical access, including baby strollers and wheelchairs. Historical markers have been placed throughout the park to provide visitors with a background of the area.
  • Memorial Park – 700 Hampton St, Columbia, SC 29201 Memorial Park is located in downtown Columbia, dedicated to the memory of those who have fought and died in service to their country. The park was dedicated in November, 1986 along with the unveiling of the South Carolina Vietnam Monument. The monument is the largest of its type outside of Washington D.C. and stands as a memorial to 980 South Carolinians who died in Vietnam. Plans are ongoing for the future development of a Korean War Memorial as funds are raised.

Arts and Entertainment

Museums

As the state capital of South Carolina, Columbia offers a rich history for residents and tourists alike to dive into the past, present, and future of the city through its museums. Some of the most well-attended museums in the area include:

  • Columbia Museum of Art – 1515 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201 The Columbia Museum of Art sparks powerful connections through art from around the corner and around the world in an environment that is welcoming to all. In addition to their rotating exhibitions, the CMA has a fantastically diverse permanent collection of art. In fact, they have one of the largest and most impressive international collections in the southeast, including many Renaissance and Baroque pieces.
  • South Carolina State Museum – 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201 Founded in 1988, the State Museum is the primary storyteller of the history of South Carolina. Through rich and diverse collections displayed through interactive and engaging exhibitions, the State Museum strives to honor the groundbreaking nature of its setting, providing both residents and visitors an in-depth picture of the state’s past, present and future. The State Museum has four disciplines that reflect the richness of South Carolina’s history. The museum’s collection contains more than 70,000 artifacts representing South Carolina Art, Natural History, Science & Technology and Cultural History.
  • McKissick Museum – 1501 Pendleton St, Columbia, SC 29208 Established in 1976, the McKissick Museum is located at the historic Horseshoe on the University of South Carolina’s campus.The Museum’s collections date back to 1801 and provide insight into the history of the university and the community, culture, and environment of the American South.The Museum is free and open to the public, making it a great day trip for anyone interested in the story of Southern life. They are home to more than 140,000 objects, including one of the most extensive natural science collections in the Southeast.

Attractions

  • Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden – 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210

    Opened in 1974, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a 170 acre zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden that is located along the Saluda River. The zoo comprises over 2,000 animals that represent more than 350 species from around the world.

    An addition to the Riverbanks Zoo is the Riverbanks Botanical Garden. The Botanical Garden is one of the nation’s most beautiful and inspiring botanical gardens. The lush 170-acre site features dynamic natural habitat exhibits, scenic river views, spectacular valley overlooks and significant historic landmarks.

Transportation

Highways

The major highways going through Columbia are I-77, I-20, and I-26. I-77 is an expansive interstate highway that goes from Cleveland, OH in the north to Columbia, SC in the south. I-77 travels through Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, and it intersects major cities such as Charleston, WV and Charlotte, NC. I-20 is a lengthy east-west highway that stretches from western Texas to eastern South Carolina. Major cities along I-20 include Dallas, TX; Shreveport, LA; Jackson, MS; Birmingham, AL; Atlanta, GA; and Augusta, GA.

Public Transport

Officially titled the Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority, Columbia’s public transit system is known by locals as “The COMET.” No, it’s not an amalgamation of ice flying through space—it’s a highly convenient network of buses that runs throughout the Columbia metropolitan area. As of August 2019, The COMET’s bus system operates 39 distinct routes.

In addition to the bus network, The COMET offers a paratransit service called Dial-A-Ride Transit, or DART. DART is available to people with disabilities who have trouble accessing the fixed-route bus system. Individuals can call ahead to schedule a DART ride within the Columbia area.

For more information about Columbia’s fixed-route bus system or DART, visit The COMET’s website.

Airport

The flexibility of close by airport options makes it easy to host friends and family or to head out on vacation. Locally, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is a small commercial airport with non-stop flights to 8 cities and one-stop flights to over 400 cities. American Airlines, Delta and United are the three airlines operating out of CAE. The busiest domestic routes from Columbia Metropolitan Airport are Charlotte, North Carolina, Atlanta, Georgia, and Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.

For a wider selection of direct flights, Columbia residents can drive less than three hours to reach airports including:

  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is approximately 1.5 hours north of Columbia. CLT is the 11th-busiest airport in the United States and fifth-busiest by aircraft movements. (2019) It was the sixth-busiest airport in the world ranked by aircraft movements. They handle around 50 million passengers annually on over 13 airlines with approximately 178 nonstop destinations around the globe. Top destinations from CLT include Orlando, Florida; Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas; Miami, Florida; Cancún, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; London, England; Munich, Germany and more.
  • Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) Located in Greer, which is only 15 minutes from downtown Greenville, GSP is 1.5 hours from Columbia. They handle over 2 million passengers annually on approximately 10 different domestic airlines. Top destinations from GSP include larger regional hubs like Atlanta, Georgia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas and Chicago, Illinois.
  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) Located in Atlanta, Georgia, ATL is the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic. It is the primary hub of Delta Airlines with over 1,000 flights per day to 225 domestic and international destinations. This makes the Delta hub in Atlanta the world’s largest airline hub. They handle around 110 million passengers annually on over 20 airlines with approximately 50 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. Top destinations from ATL include Paris, France; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Toronto, Canada; Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Cancún, Mexico; Orlando, Florida; London, England and more.

Safety

When someone speaks of Columbia, chances are it pertains to something favorable. A well-known family-oriented city with a high quality of life, Columbia exceeds the most skeptical of expectations. Even with a growing population of 132,000, it’s been able to preserve a good-ole-days vibe, where neighbors converse and drivers make way for groups of children riding their bikes. Quality education, an affordable real estate market and diverse culture frame Columbia’s high livability and safety ratings. With a strong healthcare community, like the nationally recognized hospitals Providence Hospital-Columbia and Lexington Medical Center, exceptional care is available to all.

Best Columbia Neighborhoods to Retire In

According to Realtor.com, the median listing home price in Columbia is $200k, while the median sold home price is $215k. Median listing home prices are $114 per square foot.

There are many factors that go into the decision to lay your roots down in a specific place, but a neighborhood can make or break an area. As you’re researching neighborhoods in the Columbia area, you’ll find many lists of up and coming areas. You should do thorough research to identify what your priorities are, whether they be schools, houses, proximity to social activities, or something else. Here are a few neighborhoods you’ll find yourself seeing over and over again:

Wildewood

A neighborhood of high prestige, providing residents with safety, activity, and a perfect location. Wildewood has a variety of different housing styles, bordering two exclusive golf courses for residents to enjoy.

Lexington

This neighborhood offers a safe place for its residents to settle down, providing them with a quality of life that is unmatched. It is considered an up-and-coming neighborhood, as it offers great job opportunities, a vibrant social life, and much more at a reasonable cost of living.

Blythewood

This is a special neighborhood that encompasses a strong renaissance history. They fully embrace small town charm and are fully investing in their local community. You’ll find a variety of activities, restaurants, great schools, and more.

Chapin

Chapin is located closeby to Columbia, Greenville, and Charlotte, making it an oasis away from the big cities. The location allows residents to enjoy outdoor recreational activities, award-winning restaurants, unique shopping, and countless outdoor state parks. It is a perfect spot for those who want access to the cities but not feel overshadowed by them.

Cayce

Retirement in Cayce will immediately provide you with hometown charm in the South Carolina midlands. Located on the Congaree River, residents of this area are met with outdoor activities, various hiking trails, a variety of restaurants and shopping opportunities, and anything you can imagine.

Columbia Awaits

Now that you’ve read our guide, we hope you’re convinced that Columbia is a fantastic place to retire. The endless attractions and proximity to essential resources make it an ideal location for seniors. The city offers a great sense of community and a lovely southern charm that will draw you in. And then you’ll wonder why you didn’t move here earlier.

Other Top Cities For Retirement

Pawleys Island, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina
Spartanburg, South Carolina
Greenville, South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Lexington, South Carolina
Tega Cay, South Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Mt. Airy, North Carolina
St. Simons Island, Georgia
Amelia Island, Florida
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Carmel, Indiana
North Branford, Connecticut