SC has 5 of the best places in the US to live in 2023, US News & World Report says. Here’s where
South Carolina is home to five of the best cities to live in across the United States, according to a new U.S. News & World Report ranking.
U.S. News recently unveiled its annual ranking, which lists the 150 best U.S. cities to live in for 2023. The ranking is based on quality of life and the job market in each metro area, along with the value of living there and people’s desire to live there. Data was pulled from the U.S. Census Bureau, the FBI, the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. News’ own internal resources.
So which South Carolina cities made the cut this year? Check them out below.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach came in at 18th on the list, making it the highest-ranked among the South Carolina cities this year.
“Although it’s better known to outsiders as a vacation hot spot for beachgoers and golfers, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is also an attractive place to live for a number of reasons,” U.S. News states. “Young professionals, growing families and empty nesters who are drawn to the area’s mild weather and beaches set down roots here and enjoy the area’s relatively low cost of living.”
U.S. News notes that as a popular vacation destination, the city offers many job opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industries. The area also has a pro-business atmosphere, in part because of low income taxes and incentives for growing companies. There’s also a wealth of restaurants and leisure activities, U.S. News states.
Greenville
Greenville ranked 31st on the list. The city has earned many national accolades in recent years as it has grown to a vibrant metropolis. Its reinvigorated downtown has become a focal point of the region, attracting new business and a growing culinary scene.
“A low cost of living and mild temperatures year-round make Greenville desirable to many,” U.S. News states. “Plus, being located steps away from the mountains without giving up any of the offerings of a developed region makes it easy to enjoy what nature has to offer.”
Spartanburg
U.S. News placed Spartanburg 43rd on its ranking. The city has a deep historical background that predates the Revolutionary War.
Spartanburg is home to the first full-time North American BMW plant and is headquarters of the Denny’s restaurant chain. U.S. News states that the city has a burgeoning food scene and there are plenty of events to check out downtown during the year, from festivals to farmer markets.
Charleston
Charleston ranked 53rd best place to live this year. This unique Southern city is filled to the brim with entertainment and great restaurants, but also features plenty of history, including preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. There are also a few beaches nearby for residents to enjoy.
Columbia
Columbia rounded out the end of the South Carolina cities, coming in at 92nd on the list.
“Columbia’s population is small enough that traffic is relatively mild and the streets are rarely overcrowded, but large enough to support trendy shops, cafes, bars and other businesses that make urban life enjoyable,” U.S. News states.
The city can attribute much of its vibrancy to the students who attend the University of South Carolina. And besides the restaurant and bar scene, the city boasts an abundance of trees to walk under, from oak to magnolias and pecans.
