Why Beaufort is Consistently Rated a "Best Place to Retire"

It is easy to see why Beaufort is consistently named one of America’s best places to retire. Southern Living named it as best "Best Small Southern Town", just one of many "bests" it has won.



Beaufort (pronounced bew’furt) is in the heart of South Carolina’s low country, just north of Hilton Head and halfway between cosmopolitan Charleston and Savannah. People who retire here like the southern charm, the great neighborhoods and communities, and the plentiful recreation. Prices of homes and other cost of living items are relatively inexpensive. Many of the people living here have come from somewhere else, creating an environment where it is relatively easy to make friends and establish an active social life.

  
 

Some of the nice retirement neighborhoods within Beaufort include:

  • The downtown historic district, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark
  • Pigeon Point and Higginsonville
  • The West End and Depot
  • The Spanish Point
  • The Battery Creek neighborhoods of Mossy Oaks, Royal Oaks, First Boulevard, and Cottage Farms

There are also plenty of active adult and 55+ communities to choose from: Beaufort Active Adult Communities Directory

 
 

Pros and Cons of Living in Beaufort

Pros:

  • Very popular area for retirees
  • Wonderful coast and low country of South Carolina
  • Hilton Head Island
  • Historic downtown with great shops and restaurants
  • 300 acres designated National Historic Landmark
  • Many historic buildings and antebellum architecture
  • Wide choice of communities and neighborhoods
  • Multiple festivals and events like the Water Festival
  • The Arts Council of Beaufort has a 12,000 square foot community arts center, theater, and gallery in Beaufort Town Center
  • University of South Carolina Beaufort
Cons:
  • It is a drive to the nearest cities; Charleston and Savannah
  • Very hot and humid in the summertime
  • There is always the potential of hurricane risk
  • Beaufort is so popular that it would be easy to over-develop

South Carolina Retirement Guide Use this helpful guide to find the best places to retire in South Carolina, find out if it is tax-friendly state, and learn more about its climate and other key considerations.

 
 

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Click here For a Directory of the Best Active Adult Communities