South Carolina Real Estate Market Overview (2025) 1. Strong Demand, Especially in Metro Areas
- Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia remain hot spots, fueled by population growth, tourism, and job opportunities.
- Demand is especially high for single-family homes, retirement-friendly properties, and vacation rentals near the coast.
- South Carolina ranks among the top states for people relocating from the Northeast and Midwest.
- Lower taxes, warmer weather, and affordable living continue to attract retirees, remote workers, and families.
- After rapid appreciation in recent years, price growth has cooled slightly—but remains positive in most markets.
- Median home prices in 2025 are still above pre-pandemic levels, especially in coastal and suburban areas.
- Charleston and Myrtle Beach have strong short-term and long-term rental demand.
- Investors are still active, especially in college towns and vacation destinations.
- Builders are expanding into rural and suburban counties, where land is more available and affordable.
- There's a growing focus on eco-friendly communities and affordable housing projects.
- Hurricane risk and insurance costs may impact coastal property values.
- Zoning changes and infrastructure projects (like I-26 and I-85 expansions) are shaping where new development is happening.
Whether you're buying, selling, or investing, local knowledge is key. South Carolina's market can differ dramatically between regions—what works in Spartanburg might not apply in Hilton Head.