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When it comes to choosing where to retire to, Americans are spoiled for choice. This is especially true for retirees (or soon-to-be-retirees) who want to spend their 鈥済olden years鈥� in the southern states, a popular part of the country that鈥檚 well-known for its milder climate, its pleasant scenery, and for having the amenities needed for this stage in our lives.

If that sounds like you, then the South Carolina region surrounding Charleston might well be an ideal spot to retire to. In addition to being home to several communities that offer a great lifestyle with access to essential services, the Charleston area is well-connected by highways, ensuring you鈥檙e never too far from any additional services you might need, whenever you need them. Find out more about your Low Country retirement options with this list of six charming South Carolina communities to retire to that are close to Charleston.

Hilton Head Island

Usually referred to simply as Hilton Head (or even 鈥淗HI鈥�), Hilton Head Island boasts a superb coastal lifestyle that鈥檚 as popular with tourists as it is with retirees. Located 100 miles from Charleston and a two-hour drive via US鈥�17 and SC鈥�170, Hilton Head boasts 10 miles of spectacular Atlantic beaches and wide stretches of sand that are perfect for walking at any time of year.

It鈥檚 also considered one of the most bike-friendly places in the United States, with 64 miles of mostly paved level paths to explore (biking on the hard-packed beaches when the tie is out is also fun). In addition to attractions such as the sprawling Sea Pines Resort, residents have year-round access to 麻豆AV鈥慶lass golf courses like Harbour Town Golf Links and a variety of first-rate recreational facilities. Local organizations, including the Hilton Head Island Seniors Club, schedule regular events and volunteer projects, while exercise programs at the Hilton Head Island Community Center add to the practical benefits.

Sure, housing can be a little more costly here due to its popularity as a summer beach destination, but there are no shortage of housing options in gated retirement communities like Hilton Head Plantation. Local healthcare services include hospitals along with clinics affiliated with Palmetto Health, ensuring that residents receive prompt and quality medical care.

Bluffton

One of the fastest growing towns in South Carolina, Bluffton is a superb alternative to its coastal neighbor, Hilton Head Island. A little closer to Charleston and yet only a 30-minute drive from those magnificent HHI beaches, Bluffton has long been known for its historic Old Town area with its quaint streets lined with art galleries, local boutiques, and superb dining experiences (The Bluffton Room and the Bluffton Oyster Company are must-tries). It鈥檚 also an easy drive to Savannah, Georgia, just 24 miles to the south and an always-fun place to visit.

Bluffton offers several retirement communities and affordable housing options such as the Residences at Old Carolina that appeal to seniors who prefer low鈥憁aintenance living arrangements. Top-notch healthcare services are available at nearby medical facilities like the Bluffton Medical Campus, and for active older adults, the Bluffton Community Center organizes regular exercise classes, educational workshops, and social gatherings for seniors. Add to this mix its quiet residential streets and a reputation for low crime, and Bluffton should certainly have a place on your shortlist of best places to retire to in South Carolina.

Georgetown

Situated 90 miles north of Charleston along US鈥�17 and SC鈥�40, a drive that typically takes around 1.5 hours, Georgetown offers a historic setting that鈥檚 enhanced by a blend of coastal and rural features that appeal to retirees seeking a slower pace. The town is recognized for its picturesque waterfront district and landmarks such as the Rice Museum, a fascinating facility that documents the area鈥檚 agricultural and maritime heritage (volunteers are always welcome). Georgetown鈥檚 bustling fishing harbor is home to the Harborwalk, a wide boardwalk that鈥檚 great for a gentle stroll or simply to sit and watch the fishing boats and charters come and go.

Those who like to mix and mingle with other like-minded souls will want to get involved at the Georgetown Senior Citizens Center, which organizes volunteer projects and cultural programs around the community. Housing in Georgetown is characterized by affordability and a mix of options ranging from traditional single鈥慺amily homes to retirement communities like The Crossings of Georgetown. The town offers access to essential healthcare through local clinics and facilities such as Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital, as well as its proximity to larger hospitals in Charleston when specialized treatment is required.

Beaufort

The beautiful coastal town of Beaufort is fast becoming one of South Carolina鈥檚 preferred retirement spots. Located just 70 miles south of Charleston along US鈥�17 (a drive of around an hour), the Beaufort Historic District is one of the best-looking downtowns in the state and is a great place to wander and meet friends at caf茅s like Corner Perk, a popular breakfast and brunch spot. It鈥檚 also home to attractions like the Beaufort History Museum, which preserves local heritage and offers interesting volunteer opportunities to retired history buffs. The scenic waterfront is, of course, another big draw, with the Beaufort River providing a superb setting for walks, fishing, or just watching the 麻豆AV pass by.

Active retirees will want to check out community organizations like the Beaufort Senior Center, which offers regular social programs along with volunteer projects designed to involve older residents in local initiatives. Housing in Beaufort remains affordable with options that range from historic homes that are perfect for those wanting to open a B&B to modern retirement communities like the Oaks at Beaufort, all of them within easy access of local healthcare facilities including Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Beaufort鈥檚 low crime rate and established transportation options are other plusses in the town鈥檚 favor.

Walterboro

Walterboro is a small town known for its historical character and strong community engagement. Located 50 miles west of Charleston and conveniently adjacent to the I-95 highway, the town features points of interest such as the Walterboro Historic District and the Colleton County Museum. It鈥檚 also home to several public parks and waterfront areas along the Black River that are perfect for leisurely walks and fishing. Retirees also value Walterboro for its affordable housing market, with options ranging from traditional single鈥慺amily residences to care facilities like Magnolias of Walterboro.

Essential healthcare is accessible through services provided by the Colleton Medical Center, while the Walterboro Senior Center offers exercise classes, educational seminars, and social events designed to foster senior participation. Along with its reputation for low crime and well鈥憁aintained public infrastructure, Walterboro provides a secure and practical setting for retirement.

Hardeeville

When it comes to providing a practical setting for retirement with accessible amenities and community services designed to support independent living, Hardeeville delivers. Located 90 miles south of Charleston along US鈥�17 and I-95 highways (a drive of around 90 minutes or so), the Hardeeville Recreation Center is a community hub for programs and activities aimed at seniors, along with the general public. Public parks and recreational areas are plentiful, with Sergeant Jasper Park, in particular, being fun for a stroll with your fur baby.

The town offers a variety of housing options, including affordable single鈥慺amily homes and retirement complexes like Latitude Margaritaville on the outskirts of town. And when healthcare services are needed, Coastal Carolina Hospital offers top-notch facilities, as does nearby Savannah, just 30 minutes to the south.

The Bottom Line

These six South Carolina communities offer a practical mix of affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and ample opportunities for social engagement and volunteer work, making the ideal spots to consider for retirees. Best of all, their proximity to Charleston ensures that residents have access to specialized medical centers, superb shopping options, and professional services when needed. Whether you鈥檙e just getting started with your retirement planning or are already in your 鈥済olden years,鈥� be sure to consider these six charming South Carolina communities in which to retire around Charleston.