Essential Things To Know Before Moving to Spartanburg, South Carolina
Are you thinking about moving to South Carolina and, more specifically, living in Spartanburg?
If yes, I will highlight the pros and cons of living in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Then you can decide whether this little city in the upstate region of “The Palmetto State” is the perfect place for you.
Let’s get started.
Pros And Cons Of Living In Spartanburg, SC
The top living in Spartanburg, South Carolina pros and cons include the following:
- Low cost of living
- A slower pace of life
- Small-town community vibe
- Good schools
- City-like amenities
- Proximity to Greenville
- Close to the mountains
- Access to the ocean
- Nearby Lake Bowen
- Limited local jobs
- Lower household incomes
- Higher crime
- Excessive poverty
- Lacking public transportation
- Automobiles required
- Summer heat and humidity
- Intense seasonal pollen
Next, I will expand on some of the more significant features of today’s pros and cons.
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The Pros: Why Spartanburg Is A Good Place To Live
Spartanburg is a small town with plenty going on both inside and out. The city is a great place to enjoy a slower pace whether you are retired or still working.
Benefits Of Small Town Living In Spartanburg
Small-town southern city living has its advantages. Costs are low, the pace is slow, neighbors know your name, and kids get extra attention in school.
Here are some comments from locals to better explain what I’m saying:
“Spartanburg is a good place to live for those who want to retire or live somewhere small.”
“Spartanburg has very excellent public school systems. They offer a variety of classes, have great sports programs, and prepare students for college very well.”
“It is like living in a small town but all the benefits of a large town.”
Source: NICHE.com
Let’s continue with another one of the advantages of living in Spartanburg.
One Of The Best Things About Spartanburg Is The Larger City Amenities
As the last commenter mentioned, Spartanburg is a small town. Still, it has much to offer residents looking for culture and city-like amenities.
Here are some examples.
Culture landmarks:
- Chapman Cultural Center
- Hub City Railroad Museum
- Spartanburg Art Museum
- Walnut Grove Plantation
Colleges and Universities:
- Converse University
- Spartanburg Community College
- Spartanburg Methodist College
- University of South Carolina Upstate
- Wofford College
Travel:
- Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
Golf Courses:
- River Falls
- Woodfin Ridge Golf Course
Moving To Spartanburg Means Excellent Access To The Great Outdoors
Residents enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.
Regional attractions include day trips to the North Carolina mountains, where you can hike, camp, or take in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway.
South Carolina’s sandy beaches are amazing. Visiting the waterfront beaches located near Charleston is an outstanding weekend getaway.
Or you can stay closer to home. For example, residents love to get out and explore local attractions, including the following:
- Cottonwood Trail Preserve
- Croft State Park
- Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve
- Mary Black Rail Trail
- Lake Bowen
Okay. It’s time to switch gears. To balance out today’s discussion, here are the disadvantages of living in Spartanburg.
The Cons: Why You May Regret Moving To Spartanburg
Living in Spartanburg won’t be for everyone. Because of low wages, poverty, crime, and homelessness, only some residents share in the good life. Plus, the town has some other notable drawbacks you must consider.
The Good Life In Spartanburg Is Only Shared By Some
Most of the city’s job opportunities are in necessary and hardworking occupations like production, education, office, and administrative support.
Unfortunately, these jobs do not pay all that well.
For example, the median household income is one-third less than the national average. Making matters worse, nearly one out of every four residents lives in poverty.
Source: DATAUSA
As a result, the city experiences higher than desired crime rates and homelessness.
More reading: another town in upstate North Carolina
Next, it’s time to consider another one of the disadvantages of living in Spartanburg.
Spartanburg Is Close To Everything But Yet Seems So Far Away
Convenient and comprehensive public transportation is not available. So, plan on owning a car.
Furthermore, expect to drive plenty to take advantage of the region’s offerings. For example:
- 40 minutes to Greenville, South Carolina
- 90 minutes to Charlotte, North Carolina
- 90 minutes to the Blue Ridge Mountains
- 3 hours to the Atlantic Ocean
Many residents also commute in and out of town for work. Unfortunately, people find higher-paying jobs west of the city at the best companies in greater Greenville County.
Finally, this next point might be the worst thing about Spartanburg living.
Spartanburg’s Spring And Summer Seasons Are Tough To Handle
Summers are unbearably hot and humid here. Knowing how you will handle and beat the heat every year is a good idea before moving.
Furthermore, the rain, humidity, and abundance of trees and shrubs create plenty of pollen. Thus, the environment is tough on seasonal allergy sufferers. Moreover, anything you leave outside gets coated in a sticky, yellow-green film.
Okay. That’s all I have for today. Please allow me to wrap up with some parting thoughts.
Pros And Cons Of Living In Spartanburg, SC
Spartanburg is an excellent place to live in the upstate region of South Carolina. Located near Greenville, the area offers a small-town vibe, a low cost of living, good schools, and plenty of fun things to see and do. However, like any South Carolina city, living here has some drawbacks you must come to grips with. So, carefully consider the pros and cons before you move.
Most importantly, good luck, no matter where you settle down.
Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.