What Makes Lexington and Greenville Two Prime Locations to Reside in South Carolina

Falls Park, Greenville | Image credit: Levi Meir Clancy

South Carolina is uniquely situated to provide residents with excellent lifestyles. Whether it be the sandy shores of the Grand Strand known for its beaches and golf courses, or the scenic towns and thick forests of the Midlands, South Carolina has something for everyone. 

Many communities in South Carolina are in unique locations that provide lifestyle benefits due to nearby natural sites, appealing economies, and/or proximity to cultural attractions. Let’s explore Lexington and Greenville and see why these two South Carolina cities stand out as prime locations. 

Greenville | Image credit: Jose Fontano

Lexington

Lexington is a relatively small city, but it has much to offer its residents. For starters, it is an easy 20-minute drive to Columbia, the state capital and one of the most important cities in the South Carolina economy. 

Lexington’s natural and cultural attractions contribute to its status as a prime location for buyers. Based along the shores of Lake Murray, Lexington’s natural beauty and outdoor activities are a big draw for many. Several golf courses surround Lake Murray, which is a hotspot for boating and fishing, along with water sports and swimming on warmer days. Lexington also has terrific hiking trails and parks, including the scenic Fourteen Mile Creek Trail. 

Lexington is a safe and welcoming community with plenty of cultural amenities for residents to enjoy. Its downtown consists of small business shops that sell goods made by locals and delicious dining destinations that offer Southern cuisine, barbecue, and more. The Icehouse Amphitheater is a recently-built outdoor theater in Lexington that hosts festivals, performances, farmers markets, and more. 

Lake Murray | Image credit: Emily Corley

Greenville

Greenville is a major city, home to more than 70,000 residents, in South Carolina’s Upcountry region. It is a hub for commerce and culture steeped in natural beauty. Greenville is a blend of superb shops and a dynamic food scene with the abundant natural sites surrounding the city. While it has become a tourism hotspot over the past few years, many choose to settle down in the city on a more permanent basis to explore all it has to offer. 

Greenville’s natural beauty is a core tenet of the location’s appeal. Surrounding the city are some of South Carolina’s most beautiful parks and natural areas, including Paris Mountain State Park. Paris Mountain is a 1,540-acre park with miles of hiking and biking trails centered around Lake Placid, a popular locale for fishing. Greenville also has Falls Park on the Reedy, a park near the city’s downtown with quaint hiking paths, a flowing waterfall, and a suspension bridge. 

Greenville provides a unique community with a fascinating history and a vibrant downtown. Greenville’s downtown is filled with busy shops and restaurants, and the eclectic food scene will surprise you. It has numerous award-winning restaurants, local farms that provide fresh farm-to-table produce, and ample craft breweries serving delicious cold beers. Greenville also has intriguing museums, including the Upcountry History Museum and the Greenville County Museum of Art. 

Greenville | Image credit: Casey Lovegrove