Random thought, Military spouse here. The median home value here is around $359,100, which seems about average. Household incomes average around $49,713 in Clemson. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. What are your go-to spots? Property taxes are high but you get good services.
9 upvotes
11 Replies
milwaukee_nevaeh
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 5 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in East. It's pretty good for what you get.
Jobs: The market is developing right now, especially in consulting. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally hit or miss. It took about 8 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: solid. Tons of options if you like Mediterranean.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
34 upvotes
Christian Chavez
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. the quality of life is solid. Internet is decent in most areas.
33 upvotes
Audrey W.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value dating scene, you'll love it. The pet-friendliness is genuinely average and I've found I have mixed feelings honestly. My neighborhood (Westside) is developing and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. pet-friendliness is completely different here. And Traffic during rush hour is rough.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
28 upvotes
Elijah
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want walkability, then yeah this place is great. But if pet-friendliness matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
28 upvotes
Sadie Evans
Public transit is average here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it exceeded my expectations.
23 upvotes
sofia_chef
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 4 years. Moved from LA for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is underrated. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
legal is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I love the pace of life here. The outdoor scene is tough - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are better than expected. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Traffic during rush hour is rough. Summers can be brutally hot. And housing market can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 6/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
23 upvotes
Cora
I've lived in South for about 12 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's exactly what I was looking for. When I first moved here from Seattle, I was surprised by nightlife. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- The public transit scene is average
The downsides:
- Nightlife is limited
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 8/10 for young professionals. Feel free to reach out with questions..
19 upvotes
Andrew Price
nah I disagree
14 upvotes
Josiah Gutierrez
Depends on what you're looking for honestly. If you want pet-friendliness, then yeah this place is great. But if healthcare matters to you, might want to look elsewhere.
9 upvotes
Diana G.
glad someone said it
3 upvotes
Santiago Cooper
As someone who grew up here, it was the best decision I ever made. A lot has changed in the past few years though. healthcare used to be much developing but now it's tough.