South Carolina is renowned for its stunning coastline and charming coastal towns, often stealing the spotlight for those seeking luxury living. However, the Upstate region offers a hidden gem: affluent communities that seamlessly blend upscale amenities with natural beauty. If you're considering a move to South Carolina and appreciate a refined lifestyle, the Upstate region has some affluent communities that might just catch your eye.

Forbes recently pulled data from the Census Bureau's 2022 American Community Survey to identify South Carolina's 50 richest cities, and a few Upstate towns made impressive appearances on the list.

Five Forks: The Upstate’s Crown Jewel

Ranking as the wealthiest city in the Upstate and 13th overall in South Carolina, Five Forks is a charming suburb of Greenville that epitomizes luxury living. This Greenville suburb might lack the coastal allure, but it compensates with historic homes, top-tier schools, abundant parks, and proximity to the vibrant Woodruff Road area.

Five Forks has rapidly gained popularity among those seeking a high-quality lifestyle without beach crowds. Its median household income of $125,343 and mean household income of $151,733 are indicators of its residents’ financial prosperity. The median home value of $351,000 further solidifies its status as a desirable location.

One of the significant advantages of living in Five Forks is its proximity to Woodruff Road, Greenville's hotspot for dining and shopping. This accessibility ensures residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, suburban lifestyle with the amenities of a bustling urban center just a short drive away. Greenville's reputation as one of the nation's most livable cities further boosts the appeal of Five Forks, making it a rapidly growing community in the Upstate.

The Cliffs Valley: A Luxurious Retreat

Another gem in the Upstate is The Cliffs Valley, ranked 7th in South Carolina's richest cities. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this gated community is synonymous with exclusivity and natural beauty. The median household income here is $119,659, underscoring the affluence of its residents. The Cliffs Valley is renowned for its world-class amenities, including a championship golf course, wellness center, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Living in The Cliffs Valley offers a unique blend of luxury and serenity, with scenic landscapes providing a perfect backdrop for the high-end homes that populate the area. The community's focus on health and wellness, coupled with its strong sense of community, makes it an attractive option for those seeking an upscale lifestyle in the heart of nature.

Keowee Key: A Lakefront Paradise

Ranked 18th in the state, Keowee Key is a lakefront community that offers a luxurious yet laid-back lifestyle. With a median household income of $113,375, this community is known for its beautiful homes and stunning views of Lake Keowee. The area's median home values reflect its desirability, and residents enjoy an array of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and golfing.

Keowee Key's allure lies in its tranquil setting combined with upscale living. The community boasts a range of amenities, from waterfront properties to a fitness center and an 18-hole golf course, making it a haven for those who appreciate both comfort and outdoor adventures.

Why the Upstate is Gaining PopULARITY

The Upstate's wealthiest communities, such as Five Forks, The Cliffs Valley, and Keowee Key, highlight the region's growing appeal for affluent residents. These areas offer a high quality of life, combining economic prosperity with beautiful surroundings and a strong sense of community. As more people discover the charm and opportunities of the Upstate, these towns continue to grow and thrive.

South Carolina's Richest Cities According to Forbes

∎ No. 1: Kiawah Island

∎ No. 2: Sullivan's Island

∎ No. 3: DeBordieu Colony

∎ No. 4: Pawleys Island

∎ No. 5: Isle of Palms

∎ No. 6: Briarcliffe Acres

∎ No. 7: The Cliffs Valley

∎ No. 8: Baxter Village

∎ No. 9: Seabrook Island

∎ No 10: Tega Cay

∎ No: 11: Daufuskie Island, $136,413

∎ No. 12: Riverview, $116,840

∎ No. 13: Five Forks

∎ No. 14: Lake Murray of Richland

∎ No. 15: Fort Mill

∎ No. 16: Mount Pleasant

∎ No. 17: Rockville

∎ No 18: Keowee Key

∎ No. 19: Hilton Head Island

∎ No. 20: Fripp Island