8 Charming Small Towns in South Carolina You’ll Want to Call Home
2 weeks ago
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If you’re thinking about moving to South Carolina, bustling cities like Charleston or Columbia might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, South Carolina’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 8 charming small towns in South Carolina, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
Due West is a small town in Abbeville County, centered around Erskine College. The college adds a bit of energy to the town, and the Fall Festival is a big event where locals gather for crafts, food, and music. The surrounding countryside is rolling hills and farmland, making it a peaceful place to visit or live. Fun fact: the town’s name is literal – it got its name from being due west of Abbeville.
Johnston is often referred to as the “Peach Capital of the World” because of its thriving peach orchards. The town has a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, where everyone seems to know each other. Downtown Johnston is beautiful with historic buildings, local shops, and a few cozy restaurants that reflect the area’s Southern roots. The annual Peach Blossom Festival in May is a big deal here, drawing visitors from all over to celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage.
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Known for its peach farms and lush farmland, Saluda has a deep connection to the land and its agricultural roots. The town’s historic downtown area features brick buildings, local shops, and eateries that give it a welcoming, hometown feel. The Saluda County Courthouse, a standout landmark, adds to the town’s historic charm. Saluda is also known for its annual Tractor Parade and the Ridge Spring Harvest Festival, which celebrate the community’s farming history.
With its proximity to Lake Marion, Manning offers plenty of outdoor activities, like fishing, boating, and camping. Manning also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Puddin’ Swamp Festival, which celebrates the town’s unique traditions. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, Manning is a great place for those looking to enjoy a relaxed, small-town lifestyle.
People know Newberry for the Newberry Opera House. This beautifully restored 19th-century theater serves as a cultural hub and hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year. The local farmers’ market is a popular spot on weekends, offering fresh produce and handmade goods from the surrounding farms. Newberry’s annual Oktoberfest is a big event, celebrating the town’s German heritage with food, music, and crafts.
Edgefield is the birthplace of ten South Carolina governors, and you can see this legacy reflected in landmarks like the Edgefield County Courthouse and the Old Edgefield District Genealogical Society. Additionally, Edgefield has a long tradition of pottery, which you can explore at the Edgefield Pottery Center. Looking for more to do? The town is also home to the National Wild Turkey Federation headquarters, where you can learn about wildlife conservation.
Hampton is a small Lowcountry town with a deep sense of tradition and community. The town is perhaps best known for its Hampton County Watermelon Festival, the oldest continuing festival of its kind in South Carolina. This week-long event brings together locals and visitors for parades, arts and crafts, live music, and, of course, plenty of fresh watermelon. Beyond the festival, Hampton offers quiet streets lined with classic Southern homes, where residents take pride in their close-knit community.
With a population of just over 1,000, Iva is a great place for those looking to escape the hustle of larger cities. The town sits near Lake Secession, offering locals opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking along the shore. Iva’s history is rooted in agriculture, and you can still see that influence today in the surrounding farmlands and local businesses. One of the highlights of the town is the annual Iva Spring Festival, where people gather to enjoy food, music, and crafts.
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