Main Content

About Greenwood

Area463 mi²
Founded1897
Population69,838 (2015)
Unemployment rate4.0% (Sep 2017)

Click here to see videos of Greenwood.

South Carolina has long been considered the crown of American culture because of its beauty, beaches, mountains and wonderful climate. If South Carolina is the crown, then Greenwood is the main jewel of the crown! With all Greenwood has to offer, many retirees have already discovered one of the “best kept secrets” of South Carolina.

Greenwood’s collaborative community spirit, mild climate, Award Winning Healthcare, exciting cultural arts programs, and affordable cost of living are just a few of the amenities which make the area a prime location for those searching for the perfect retirement location. While picturesque lakes and gently rolling landscapes provide a beautiful rural setting for residents, Greenwood is only a few hours’ drive from both the mountains and the coast as well as conveniently close to all major Southern markets. Greenwood is strategically positioned between Atlanta, Charlotte, Greenville, Columbia, Anderson & Augusta. Greenwood County’s unique mix of events and attractions make us a one-of-a-kind place to visit. From art exhibits to BBQ cook-offs, free concerts, to theatrical performances, Greenwood can fill you fun calendar. Come experience our award-winning festivals, like the SC Festival of Flowers and the SC Festival of Discovery.

For more in depth information on Greenwood, we recommend you visit one of our many websites below or our County Links Page:

A Mild Climate With Distinct Seasons

When a native New Yorker decided to leave Seneca Falls for a mellower climate, he still wanted to enjoy all four seasons, and find a lake with a shoreline that would NOT be subject to the dictates of the Corps of Engineers. He found all that and more in Greenwood, including much lower taxes as a bonus. The County Of Greenwood now boasts a thriving population of over 68,000 people.

Economic Growth and Expansion

Wonderous natural beauty surrounds the community, which is nestled in the Piedmont region of western South Carolina. At the same time, Greenwood City and County also are known for a progressive approach to economic growth and expansion, outstanding community leadership and a strong commitment to preserve the cultural heritage and environmental quality of the area. Once a railroad town, Greenwood County boast a modern and divers economic base, from Fujifilm’s North American manufacturing, distribution, and research and development headquarters to nationally recognized genetics research at the Greenwood Genetic Center. For a list of the growing industry and economic growth, I recommend visiting the Greenwood Partnership Alliance for up to date and detailed information

Local Attractions and Activities

Greenwood’s attractions include an 11,400-acre recreational Lake Greenwood, rolling hills, Revolutionary War battlegrounds like Star Fort, and even Emerald Farm goat milk soap factory and natural food store – now a major attraction for tourists. From The Master’s Golf Tournament in nearby Augusta to the Symetra Tour at Stoney Point on Lake Greenwood, to professional productions at the Greenwood Community Theatre in town, you can set the tempo of your personal life on high.

Quality Of Life Balanced With Affordable Cost Of Living

Like the rest of South Carolina, housing here is extremely affordable! Compared to the rest of the country, Greenwood’s cost of living is 17.50% Lower than the U.S. average. The median home cost in Greenwood is $94,600 and home Appreciation is up 3.9% in the last 12 months. If you are looking for a waterfront home or waterfront community, those home prices are some of the most affordable for lake property and typically range from around $200,000 and up. If you prefer an upscale golf course or gated community in town, you’ll have plenty to choose from, with homes starting in the high $100’s. No matter what your preference, you will find something to suit you here!

Uptown Greenwood remains, as always, the heart of Greenwood, South Carolina

Hailed as the widest Main Street in the world, Uptown Greenwood pleases the eye with open spaces and lovely scenic landscaping. Uptown’s unique and attractive Arcade and green awnings further distinguish and enhance the wonderfully pleasing “experience” of Uptown Greenwood, including the Community Theatre. Uptown truly offers something for everyone. Unique shops are scattered throughout the Uptown area offering everything from greeting cards, candy, and bath items, to exquisite crystal, fine jewelry, quality clothing, and exceptional home furnishings. Restaurants located in Uptown Greenwood offer a delightful array of tasty choices sure to please every appetite and make for an exceptional dining experience.

Location, Location, Location

Greenwood is easily accessible to Atlanta and Charlotte as well as Charleston and Asheville, our small town offers all the necessities of the big city in a true Southern setting. Home to state of the art healthcare facilities at Self Regional and the sophisticated shopping and dining of Uptown Greenwood. Greenwood is convenient to both Greenville Regional Airport as well as Columbia International Airport. Even better, Lake Greenwood is just a few hours from South Carolina’s scenic coastline and beaches, major metropolitan areas, and the mountains.

Small Town Charm

There’s something special here in upstate South Carolina and Greenwood is right at the heart of it all. While the rest of America talks about finding quality of life, people in Greenwood relish theirs. Our gentle lifestyle with its unhurried pace and strong community connections blends, leading the rat race and stepping outside of it to nurture one’s soul. Greenwood County has everything you’re looking for when it comes to the golden wish list for your leisure-filled years. Greenwood County is the perfect place to retire. Whichever pace you choose- live a little or a lot- but somewhere in Greenwood, there’s easily a front porch waiting with a cool glass of iced tea and a hammock calling your name. Come home to Greenwood.

Innovative Education

Educational opportunities are easily accessible in Greenwood, with three fully accredited school districts, five private schools, two colleges which provide a wide range of educational opportunities. The Partnership Alliance and the Foundation as well as many other community and philanthropic organizations, continually support the pursuit of adult education and the training that sets our workforce apart from the ordinary. Greenwood is also home to Lander University and Peidmont Technical College. And it is within a hours drive to both Clemson University and the University Of South Carolina. Our exceptional location and educational institutions and resources encourage you to reach for higher goals at every stage of life, with local campuses or distance learning offering a wide array of courses and skills to build on for the future.

The Greenwood Promise

The Greenwood Promise is a county-wide educational initiative that promises every student who graduates from a Greenwood County public/private/accredited homeschool the opportunity to receive at least an associate’s degree or certificate from Piedmont Technical College. Students can attend another technical school within the state if their desired degree or major is not offered locally. The tuition assistance program is place-based and ‘last dollar’ and will pay remaining tuition and fees after State and Federal scholarships and grants for all eligible students.For more information, please visit The Greenwood Promise website.

Click here to request a relocation packet.