Just Sold: From New Jersey to South Carolina to Be Near the Grandkids
Every year, thousands of New Jersey homeowners hand over their keys and head south for retirement. More and more of them are choosing South Carolina, and it’s easy to see why: lower taxes, milder winters, and a slower, friendlier pace of life.
A Real Move: Doug and Irine’s Story
Some moves are about square footage. Doug and Irine’s was about family. After their kids settled in the Carolinas, they decided it was time to follow. They said goodbye to New Jersey, and today the grandkids are only 8 minutes away.
Sunday dinners, school plays and last-minute babysitting are now a short drive instead of a long trip down I-95. Add lower taxes and Southern sunshine, and they won’t miss New Jersey at all. Congratulations, Doug and Irine, and welcome to South Carolina!
You’re in Good Company
In 2023, New Jersey ranked No. 1 in the country for people moving out, and retirement was the top reason they gave.
- 27% of people leaving New Jersey say they’re moving to retire.
- About 7,926 people who left New Jersey settled in South Carolina, making it a top-10 destination.
- South Carolina ranks No. 2 in the U.S. for retiree moves, right behind Florida.
- Retirement is the No. 1 reason people give for moving to South Carolina.
The Pros of Retiring in South Carolina
1. No State Tax on Social Security
South Carolina exempts 100% of Social Security benefits from state income tax, with no income limit or phaseout.
2. A Retirement Income Deduction
Residents 65 and older can deduct up to $10,000 of other retirement income, like pensions or 401(k) withdrawals. Military retirement pay is fully exempt, and there is no state estate or inheritance tax.
3. Much Lower Property Taxes
New Jersey’s average property tax bill hit $10,570 in 2025, the highest in the nation. South Carolina’s average effective rate is around 0.53%. On top of that, homeowners 65 and older who have lived in the state for a year can exempt the first $50,000 of their home’s value from property taxes, with no income limit.
4. Mild Winters and an Outdoor Lifestyle
Trade snow shovels for golf clubs. South Carolina offers lakes, walking trails, and beaches and mountains within a few hours’ drive.
5. Close to Charlotte, Close to Family
The South Carolina side of the Charlotte region gives you SC’s tax advantages with Charlotte Douglas International Airport, top hospitals, Broadway shows and great dining about 30 minutes away. That makes visits from family back in New Jersey easy, too.
Spotlight: Living in Indian Land, South Carolina
Indian Land is one of the most popular spots for retirees moving to the Charlotte area, with 55+ communities, resort-style amenities and quick access to Ballantyne. Take a look around in my video tour:
Other South Carolina towns near Charlotte worth a look include Fort Mill, Tega Cay, Lake Wylie and Rock Hill.
Thinking About Retiring to South Carolina?
I’ve been helping buyers relocate to the Charlotte region since 2006. Whether your kids are already here or you’re just starting to explore, I’d love to help you compare communities and find the right home for your next chapter.
Reach out anytime at info@soldondanielle.com or visit SoldOnDanielle.com.
Written by Danielle Edwards
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Danielle Edwards
New Home Buyer Specialist | RE/MAX Executive
704-604-2999 | info@soldondanielle.com
soldondanielle.com
