Located in the Southeast region, South Carolina is a beautiful state with ocean and mountain views, classic Southern cuisine and over 90,000 acres of protected parkland. It has nearly 5.2 million residents, over 18% of whom are 65 and over. South Carolina offers a warm climate year-round, giving residents plenty of opportunities to lounge on the beach, visit its more than 350 golf courses and hike the state’s 400 trails, and its very low cost of living makes it a financially feasible option for many retirees.
Independent living provides a maintenance-free lifestyle for active older adults. Unlike assisted living facilities, which are ideal for those who need some personal care services, independent living communities focus on optimizing residents’ comfort and quality of life through social and recreational activities and amenities, housekeeping and lawn care services and daily meals. Some communities have resort-style amenities, such as spas, pools, golf courses, fitness centers and tennis courts. Fees vary considerably depending on a community’s location and amenities, but in general, South Carolina is one of the cheapest states in the nation for this lifestyle, with monthly fees coming in at $2,592 per month.
This guide compares South Carolina’s independent living fees to other states in the Southeast and provides tips on covering costs. It also features an overview of programs and agencies that serve older adults in the state.
The Cost of Independent Living in South Carolina
Note: Independent Living offers a hassle-free senior lifestyle but doesn’t offer the additional layer of care found in Assisted Living, which is why it usually costs 30%-40% less. Since there’s no authoritative source of average costs for Independent Living across the nation, we estimated the cost by subtracting 35% from the average cost of Assisted Living based on the cost data found in the 2021 Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey.
Seniors in the Palmetto State opting for Independent Living pay an average of $577 less than the national average. Compared to adjacent states, Independent Living costs $50 less per month in Georgia, while it costs $259 more in North Carolina and $320 more in Tennessee. In nearby Virginia, the average cost for Independent Living is $3,413, which is over $1,000 higher per month than South Carolina.
Cities within South Carolina have a wide range of average costs for Independent Living. While Hilton Head Island’s cost mirrors the national average at $2,925, Sumter has a very low average cost of $1,731. Myrtle Beach is relatively high at $2,646, which is $298 higher than the state average. Charleston is higher than the state average by $216 at $2,564, and Greenville at $2,433 is higher by $85, but Spartanburg is lower by $8 at $2,340.
South Carolina offers a spectrum of other senior living options with varying levels of care. Assisted Living offers care when needed at an average cost of $3,612. Adult Day Health Care is the lowest cost choice at $1,408 per month, but it’s a nonresidential option. Seniors can receive care in their homes for $4,433 per month for In-Home Care or $4,481 for Home Health Care. Those needing extensive nursing care may require Nursing Home care, which costs an average of $7,285 for a shared room or $7,984 for a private room in South Carolina.
Nursing Home Care (semiprivate room)
Nursing Home Care (private room)
Can You Use Medicare or Medicaid to Pay for Independent Living in South Carolina?
Unfortunately, you cannot use Medicaid and Medicare to help pay the monthly fee for residing in an Independent Living community. For seniors who need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), there may be financial assistance programs available to help cover the cost of care in Independent Living. For more information about financial assistance for those who need a higher level of care, read our guide to Assisted Living in South Carolina.
Read on for more information about using alternative means to make Independent Living more affordable, such as retirement funds, the sale of a home, etc.
Paying for Independent Living in South Carolina
Older adults in South Carolina have several options for covering independent living fees. While Medicare doesn’t cover monthly fees the way it pays for home health care or nursing home care, Medicaid, veterans’ benefits and long-term care insurance generally provide coverage for expenses, such as housekeeping, meals and maintenance. This can offset ineligible expenses, such as rent or buy-in, making it more affordable for residents. Those who own their homes have additional options for covering expenses. Some sell their homes and use the proceeds to cover living expenses. Alternatively, they may rent out their home or take out a reverse mortgage.
Independent Living Resources in South Carolina
Seniors in South Carolina have access to a range of programs that promote their independence and quality of life. Through the following resources, older adults can connect with advocacy services, options counseling, legal advice and social and recreational programs.
(866) 389-5655
AARP South Carolina advocates on behalf of older adults in the state on issues, such as economic security, health care access and affordability, consumer protections and maintaining livable communities. Through this local chapter, those aged 50 and over can get information on current events that affect them, access to social and recreational programming, discounts for restaurants and entertainment venues, tax assistance and safe driver courses. The organization also hosts online workshops and seminars that cover age-related issues.
(800) 868-9095
The South Carolina Department on Aging oversees several programs for older adults in the state, including GetCareSC. This program helps older residents and those with disabilities access services in the community, such as home-delivered and congregate meals, transportation and information and referrals for community-based services, such as medical supplies and volunteer opportunities. The department also oversees the state’s network of Area Agencies on Aging, which provide health insurance options counseling, legal advice and services in the community.
(800) 942-2677
RSVP is a nationwide program that provides volunteer opportunities exclusively to those aged 55 and over. Through their county’s local program, older adults can work one-on-one with a trained advisor who can help them connect with volunteer opportunities that fit their experience, interests and schedule. Opportunities vary by region but may include placement in hospitals, senior centers, museums, schools, performing arts centers and charities.
(888) 346-5592
South Carolina Legal Services is a statewide organization that provides free civil legal aid, assistance and representation for older adults. Through the local offices, individuals meet with legal professionals who help them review independent living community contracts, resolve billing or payment issues and enroll in public benefits, such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, which may help cover living expenses.
2-1-1
SC 211 is operated by United Way and provides one-on-one help with accessing services and programs in the community. Through this free service, older adults can connect with health and wellness services, financial assistance, social and recreational programming, transportation and veterans services.
(888) 721-2769
South Carolina Military and Veterans Benefits oversees a range of benefits and programs for state residents who served in the U.S. armed forces, including unemployment compensation, parks and recreation benefits, healthcare and insurance, legal assistance, financial aid and retirement benefits. Through its local service offices, qualifying individuals can apply for veterans’ and survivors’ pension programs, which can help pay for independent living services.
SC Sports Classic is sanctioned by the National Senior Games Association and provides competitive and recreational sports leagues for those aged 40 and over. There are 26 sports and 82 events, including team events, such as basketball, volleyball, swimming, bowling, golf, shuffleboard and pickleball. Both elite and recreational athletes are welcome to participate. In addition to sports, the organization holds social and educational events, such as dinners, cornhole, bingo and Parade of Athletes.
COVID-19 Rules for Independent Living in South Carolina
The following information is based on research done on several government websites, including scdhec.gov/covid19. These rules apply to Independent Living Communities and other types of senior living facilities. We’ve most recently updated this data on 2/13/2022, but since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving pandemic, contact your local senior living facility or Area Agency on Aging for more specific and up-to-date information.
Visitation Policies
Rules for South Carolina Communities
Are loved ones allowed to visit to provide emotional support?
Yes (Conditions Apply)
Are relatives allowed to visit for end-of-life care?
Yes
Are residents required to quarantine after visiting with a loved one?
No
Are visitors required to wear PPE (including masks) in order to visit residents?
Yes
Are non-medical contractors (such as hairdressers and entertainers) allowed in senior living facilities?
Yes
Are visitors checked for elevated temperatures?
Yes
Are visitors required to answer questions about health, travel, and potential virus contact?
Yes
Outings & Social Activities
Rules for South Carolina Communities
Are residents allowed to leave (errands, visiting family, etc.) for non-medical reasons?
Yes
Are residents who leave required to quarantine when they return?
No (Conditions Apply)
Are senior living communities required to cancel all group outings?
No
Are residents allowed to eat meals together in a common area?
Yes (Conditions Apply)
Are residents allowed to gather in common areas for group activites?
Yes (Conditions Apply)
COVID-19 Safety Measures for Staff and Residents
Rules for South Carolina Communities
Are staff members regularly required to do a temperature check?
Yes
Are staff members regularly tested for COVID-19?
Yes (Conditions Apply)
Are staff members members regularly required to do a health and safety screening, including questions about travel, contact with positive cases, etc?
Yes
Are residents regularly screened for COVID-19 symptoms?
Yes
Are residents regularly checked for elevated temperatures?
Yes
Are residents regularly tested for COVID-19?
Yes (Conditions Apply)
Find Independent Living Communities in South Carolina
Use the tool below to find Independent Living Communities near you – if you’d like to search in a specific city in South Carolina, simply put that in the search bar below.
Directory of Independent Living Communities in Greenville, SC
1180 Haywood Rd, Greenville, SC, 29615
The apartments at Holiday Haywood Estates were a little small. The staff showed us a three-bedroom and a two-bedroom, and the three-bedroom was smaller than the two-bedroom, so the two-bedroom worked
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The apartments at Holiday Haywood Estates were a little small. The staff showed us a three-bedroom and a two-bedroom, and the three-bedroom was smaller than the two-bedroom, so the two-bedroom worked better. I don’t like the fact that it’s on a busy road and the only entrance and exit are on that busy road. I have my reservations about that. Other than that, it was OK. There are a lot of really old people. She said probably half of their patrons are people on walkers or wheelchairs or whatever. The dining area was not as nice as some we’ve looked at. The tablecloths and stuff were cheap.
There is no stove. All the meals are provided, but I would rather have some of the meals provided, my choice, and a stove where I can make eggs in the morning or whatever I have a taste for. They have a list of activities and they had a wide range and everything was covered apparently. They had lunch at a restaurant. Those sound nice, but the people getting off the bus all had walkers. The crowd is a little old for me. The staff was very nice, and thorough, and listened to what we did and didn’t like about them. It all seemed pretty clean and nice. Their washer and dryer are down the hall on each floor.
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The apartments at Holiday Haywood Estates were a little small. The staff showed us a three-bedroom and a two-bedroom, and the three-bedroom was smaller than the two-bedroom, so the two-bedroom worked
… (read more)
The apartments at Holiday Haywood Estates were a little small. The staff showed us a three-bedroom and a two-bedroom, and the three-bedroom was smaller than the two-bedroom, so the two-bedroom worked better. I don’t like the fact that it’s on a busy road and the only entrance and exit are on that busy road. I have my reservations about that. Other than that, it was OK. There are a lot of really old people. She said probably half of their patrons are people on walkers or wheelchairs or whatever. The dining area was not as nice as some we’ve looked at. The tablecloths and stuff were cheap.
There is no stove. All the meals are provided, but I would rather have some of the meals provided, my choice, and a stove where I can make eggs in the morning or whatever I have a taste for. They have a list of activities and they had a wide range and everything was covered apparently. They had lunch at a restaurant. Those sound nice, but the people getting off the bus all had walkers. The crowd is a little old for me. The staff was very nice, and thorough, and listened to what we did and didn’t like about them. It all seemed pretty clean and nice. Their washer and dryer are down the hall on each floor.
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11 East Augusta Place, Greenville, SC, 29605
I like it. It kind of reminds me of a cruise ship. They always have activities and stuff going on. They’ve got some good food. I like that the room is like a little studio. I like that they can come a
… (read more)
I like it. It kind of reminds me of a cruise ship. They always have activities and stuff going on. They’ve got some good food. I like that the room is like a little studio. I like that they can come and go as they please and it is not like they’re forced to stay inside. The staff who gave me the tour was funny and nice. She was personable with the residents there. The rooms are spacious and nice. It’s a perfect size. When I came, somebody was performing for them. They got a library, a game room, and a fitness room.
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I like it. It kind of reminds me of a cruise ship. They always have activities and stuff going on. They’ve got some good food. I like that the room is like a little studio. I like that they can come a
… (read more)
I like it. It kind of reminds me of a cruise ship. They always have activities and stuff going on. They’ve got some good food. I like that the room is like a little studio. I like that they can come and go as they please and it is not like they’re forced to stay inside. The staff who gave me the tour was funny and nice. She was personable with the residents there. The rooms are spacious and nice. It’s a perfect size. When I came, somebody was performing for them. They got a library, a game room, and a fitness room.
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150 Verdin Road, Greenville, SC, 29607
My friend and I both zeroed in on Maple Brook Terrace. It was brighter, and the people were happier. The food was pretty good, and they gave us a good deal. The staff that took us through was very fri
… (read more)
My friend and I both zeroed in on Maple Brook Terrace. It was brighter, and the people were happier. The food was pretty good, and they gave us a good deal. The staff that took us through was very friendly and very informative. We had lunch there twice, and it was good both times. We looked at the apartments that were already rented to people. They were kind enough to let us come in and look at the apartments to see what it was like with furniture. They were very willing to help with whatever needs we had. I was just pleased with the whole atmosphere. They have a lot of activities, and the place is very clean.
They serve three meals a day, but they have a beautiful kitchen. They have a stove, a refrigerator, and a microwave. They have a chapel, a library, and an exercise room, but they don’t have a pool. Each apartment has a balcony. They have a courtyard and places where they can go out and grill. They have a snack bar that’s open 24 hours a day in the lobby downstairs. They have buses that take you to the doctor, groceries, and outings. They also have garages that you could rent.
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My friend and I both zeroed in on Maple Brook Terrace. It was brighter, and the people were happier. The food was pretty good, and they gave us a good deal. The staff that took us through was very fri
… (read more)
My friend and I both zeroed in on Maple Brook Terrace. It was brighter, and the people were happier. The food was pretty good, and they gave us a good deal. The staff that took us through was very friendly and very informative. We had lunch there twice, and it was good both times. We looked at the apartments that were already rented to people. They were kind enough to let us come in and look at the apartments to see what it was like with furniture. They were very willing to help with whatever needs we had. I was just pleased with the whole atmosphere. They have a lot of activities, and the place is very clean.
They serve three meals a day, but they have a beautiful kitchen. They have a stove, a refrigerator, and a microwave. They have a chapel, a library, and an exercise room, but they don’t have a pool. Each apartment has a balcony. They have a courtyard and places where they can go out and grill. They have a snack bar that’s open 24 hours a day in the lobby downstairs. They have buses that take you to the doctor, groceries, and outings. They also have garages that you could rent.
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810 Woodruff Road, Greenville, SC, 29607
10 Fountainview Terrace, Greenville, SC, 29607
The rooms are very lovely, asd is the staff and the food is wonderful. Activities galore. However, the cost is very, very high..
There is a very expensive upfront buy-in which will cover assisted
… (read more)
The rooms are very lovely, asd is the staff and the food is wonderful. Activities galore. However, the cost is very, very high..
There is a very expensive upfront buy-in which will cover assisted living if you need it. However, the monthly cost is over 4000 dollars for a single person , with a less then desirable view, and a smaller apartment. If you choose to leave, You must wait to get your buy-in back for an extended period of time 6-18 months. In addition you need to give them 6 months notice to leave. I found it more cost effective for me to purchase a home and if needed to hire help,
They have a great sales pitch.
They increased their prices by 8.5 % last year and I am told by the residents that that % increase is normal since an for profit company purchase the Cascades.
during a town hall meeting,the question was raised regarding the steep increase in price and the overall answer was there are other places for you to live.
So tip toe with caution. If you ave very wealthy, you will be fine.
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The rooms are very lovely, asd is the staff and the food is wonderful. Activities galore. However, the cost is very, very high..
There is a very expensive upfront buy-in which will cover assisted
… (read more)
The rooms are very lovely, asd is the staff and the food is wonderful. Activities galore. However, the cost is very, very high..
There is a very expensive upfront buy-in which will cover assisted living if you need it. However, the monthly cost is over 4000 dollars for a single person , with a less then desirable view, and a smaller apartment. If you choose to leave, You must wait to get your buy-in back for an extended period of time 6-18 months. In addition you need to give them 6 months notice to leave. I found it more cost effective for me to purchase a home and if needed to hire help,
They have a great sales pitch.
They increased their prices by 8.5 % last year and I am told by the residents that that % increase is normal since an for profit company purchase the Cascades.
during a town hall meeting,the question was raised regarding the steep increase in price and the overall answer was there are other places for you to live.
So tip toe with caution. If you ave very wealthy, you will be fine.
(read less)
1500 Trailhead Court, Greenville, SC, 29617
The Woodlands at Furman is very beautiful, and it’s very nice. The community was very welcoming, and I went to Furman University, so it’s already part of the family. The staff were excellent represent
… (read more)
The Woodlands at Furman is very beautiful, and it’s very nice. The community was very welcoming, and I went to Furman University, so it’s already part of the family. The staff were excellent representatives and very informative. The layout of the facility is unique, and it’s perfect for the setting. They also have a tennis court. The location is conveniently within the city.
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The Woodlands at Furman is very beautiful, and it’s very nice. The community was very welcoming, and I went to Furman University, so it’s already part of the family. The staff were excellent represent
… (read more)
The Woodlands at Furman is very beautiful, and it’s very nice. The community was very welcoming, and I went to Furman University, so it’s already part of the family. The staff were excellent representatives and very informative. The layout of the facility is unique, and it’s perfect for the setting. They also have a tennis court. The location is conveniently within the city.
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52 Market Point Dr, Greenville, SC, 29607
Overture Greenville 55+ Apartment Homes was an excellent community. The place was immaculate. I liked it. It’s just that I couldn’t afford the rent. The people were friendly. They seemed to try and pr
… (read more)
Overture Greenville 55+ Apartment Homes was an excellent community. The place was immaculate. I liked it. It’s just that I couldn’t afford the rent. The people were friendly. They seemed to try and provide social activities for the community, which was very nice. It’s a very social place. The apartments were clean and up to date.
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Overture Greenville 55+ Apartment Homes was an excellent community. The place was immaculate. I liked it. It’s just that I couldn’t afford the rent. The people were friendly. They seemed to try and pr
… (read more)
Overture Greenville 55+ Apartment Homes was an excellent community. The place was immaculate. I liked it. It’s just that I couldn’t afford the rent. The people were friendly. They seemed to try and provide social activities for the community, which was very nice. It’s a very social place. The apartments were clean and up to date.
(read less)
Independent Living Facilities in South Carolina (24)
- Aiken, SC (3)
- Anderson, SC (4)
- Charleston, SC (6)
- Clemson, SC (2)
- Columbia, SC (10)
- Easley, SC (3)
- Florence, SC (2)
- Fort Mill, SC (4)
- Greenville, SC (7)
- Hilton Head Island, SC (2)
- Indian Land, SC (2)
- Lexington, SC (4)
- Little River, SC (2)
- Mount Pleasant, SC (6)
- Murrells Inlet, SC (2)
- Myrtle Beach, SC (9)
- Okatie, SC (3)
- Orangeburg, SC (2)
- Rock Hill, SC (2)
- Seneca, SC (2)
- Simpsonville, SC (3)
- Spartanburg, SC (3)
- Summerville, SC (7)
- West Columbia, SC (4)
