Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Greenville, SC
Considering a move to Greenville, SC? With a population of about 72,000, Greenville offers a blend of affordability and vibrant Southern living, featuring median home prices around $345,000 and average rents at $1,300. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 18.5 minutes, a mild climate with 62% sunny days, and strong educational opportunities including public and private schools plus nearby colleges. While crime rates are higher than average, Greenville boasts a thriving downtown, access to quality healthcare, and an overall cost of living below the national average—making it an attractive choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Greenville, SC
Demographics - Greenville, SC
Greenville is home to 72,310 residents, with a median age of 35.9, reflecting a youthful and diverse community. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a rich blend of cultures, with about 9.5% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. The majority of residents identify as White (67%), followed by Black (23%), contributing to the city’s vibrant social fabric.
Population:
72,310
Density:
2,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.9
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
67.0%
Black:
23.0%
Asian:
2.6%
Others:
7.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Greenville, SC?
Greenville offers a cost of living below the national average, making it an affordable option for many. Median home values are around $345,000 and average rents are $1,300 per month, with utilities and groceries also reasonably priced. State income taxes range from 0% to 7%, helping residents manage their budgets effectively.
Median House Value:
$345,000
Gross Rent:
$1,300
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,410
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
7%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.5
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
84.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
91.5
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
94.8
Crime
Is Greenville, SC a safe place to live?
Greenville experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with property crime being the most common. Residents have a 1 in 31 chance of being a victim of property crime and a 1 in 213 chance for violent crime. While safety is a consideration, many neighborhoods remain welcoming and vibrant.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
470
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,270
Crime Index:
3,740
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 213
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Greenville, SC year-round?
Greenville enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers reaching up to 90°F and winters rarely dropping below 34°F. The city receives about 51.6 inches of annual rainfall and sees sunshine on 62% of days, making outdoor activities popular year-round. Seasonal changes bring comfortable transitions, supporting a variety of recreational options.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
90°F
Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Greenville’s neighborhoods feature a median household income of $63,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly half hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times are short, averaging just 18.5 minutes, contributing to an easygoing local lifestyle.
Median Income:
$41,250
Household Income:
$63,200
Family Income:
$78,600
Per Capita Income:
$37,900
Income Male:
$45,600
Income Female:
$36,800
Poverty Rate:
12.7%
Non English Speakers:
9.5%
Rent:
$1,300
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
2.5%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.8%
Bachelors or More:
47.3%
Education
How are the schools in Greenville, SC?
Greenville offers strong educational opportunities, featuring public and private schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a variety of programs. Higher education options include Furman University and Greenville Technical College, both located within the city. Families and students benefit from a supportive and diverse academic environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Greenville High Academy
Street:
1 Vardry St
Phone:
864-355-5500
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Augusta Circle Elementary
Street:
100 Winyah St
Phone:
864-355-1200
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph's Catholic School
Street:
100 St Joseph's Dr
Phone:
864-234-9009
Students:
700
Colleges
Name:
Furman University
City:
Greenville
State:
SC
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
2,700
Name:
Greenville Technical College
City:
Greenville
State:
SC
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,000
Healthcare
Residents benefit from quality healthcare access, including major hospitals like Prisma Health Greenville Memorial and Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown. The city offers 2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance. Greenville’s healthcare system is robust and well-equipped for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital
Address:
701 Grove Rd, Greenville, SC 29605
Phone:
(864) 455-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Bon Secours St. Francis Downtown
Address:
1 St Francis Dr, Greenville, SC 29601
Phone:
(864) 255-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Greenville, SC?
The local housing market is competitive yet approachable, with a median home price of $345,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,300. About 45% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a 7.2% appreciation rate in the past year. Rental vacancy rates are moderate, providing options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$345,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,300
Owner Occupied Rate:
45.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Greenville residents are served by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, which provides essential services such as licensing and vehicle registration. The nearest main office is located in Blythewood, and resources are available online for convenience. Access to DMV services is straightforward for new and existing residents.
State:
South Carolina
Department:
South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
10311 Wilson Blvd, Blythewood, SC 29016
Phone:
1-803-896-5000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.