This small Upstate town is catching homebuyer interest, says Travel + Leisure. See why

Simpsonville and Greenville, South Carolina, are attracting homebuyers due to lower housing costs, family-friendly amenities, and access to nature.
Simpsonville offers top-rated schools, local restaurants, and a vibrant downtown area.
Greenville boasts a thriving arts and culinary scene, a walkable downtown, and outdoor activities.

If you have your heart set on moving to South Carolina but don’t know your way around yet, narrowing down where to live might prove to be a tricky endeavor.

Cities like Charleston and Greenville have been soaking up all the attention these days, but local real estate experts are noticing a shift among homebuyers.

“When our buyers think of moving to South Carolina, they usually focus on one of three communities: Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia,” Aimee Peterson, owner of Better Homes and Garden Real Estate Palmetto, told Travel + Leisure. However, as buyers begin to explore these cities, they start to find the charm in smaller towns, she said.

Here’s why buyers are choosing to call Greenville and this smaller nearby town in the Upstate home, according to Travel + Leisure’s 11 Best Place To Live in S.C.

No. 6: Simpsonville

Drivers who pass by the Simpsonville sign on the sign of the highway receive a warm welcome from the town’s motto, which perfectly describes the area.

“Welcome to Simponville,” the sign reads. “Simply home.”

The town’s serene ways and natural beauty are what makes it a top place to live, just minutes away from Greenville. Residents won’t have to travel too far out of their way to get their groceries and shopping done, either; Fairview Road is lined with popular stores, from Target to Home Publix and Ross to TJ Maxx.

“With lower prices (median sales price of around $380,000), more land, and slightly cooler temperatures, Simpsonville continues to be a desired area,” Peterson said. “For buyers with families, Simpsonville boasts the top-rated schools in all of Greenville County. There is also a vibrant scene with many local restaurants and craft brewery favorites.”

Need another reason for why residents love this overlooked small town? It has its very own “Ice Cream Station” on Main Street that is open year round, positioned near a railroad track so you can watch the train as you enjoy dessert with the kids. Talk about yum and fun.

No. 8: Greenville

Charleston may have its charm, but Greenville has claimed its place as S.C.’s precious gem. Prospective homebuyers shouldn’t let the city’s lack of beaches deter them from making the move, either ― the city has much for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, like the award-winning Swamp Rabbit Trail that snakes through the city and the views that await climbers at the top of Paris Mountain. It’s also worth noting that the state’s best beaches are only 3-5 hours away by car, depending on which coastal town you’re headed to.

“Greenville has quietly positioned itself as one of the most dynamic towns in the Upstate. The city strikes a rare balance, polished yet approachable, with strong infrastructure, continued job growth, and a thriving arts and culinary scene,” Amy Byrne, team lead for Compass’ Andy Bovender Team, told Travel + Leisure.

Byrnes also added that the city has a “walkable downtown filled with restaurants, shops, and parks” that draws buyers in. The area’s low cost of living is of particular interest to young professionals and retirees, with the average home value prices at just under $330,000.